Modelling requirements

Connection Applicants are required to submit a model package that represents the structure and performance of their generating plant, to AEMO and the connecting Network Service Provider (NSP). The model package and documentation must conform to the Power System Model Guidelines, the Power System Design Data Sheets and Power System Setting Data Sheets, as required by National Electricity Rules (NER) S5.2.4, 5.2.5 and S5.5.6.

AEMO requires modelling information to represent the physical arrangement of the generating system and its connection to the network. AEMO also requires that simulation models are sufficiently accurate to demonstrate the performance of the generating plant under all expected operating conditions. AEMO uses modelling data and simulation models to assess technical performance standards, to determine power system operational limits, as well as to assess the connection requirements for future Generators.

AEMO uses PSS®E and PSCAD™/EMTDC™ software for connection studies. Connection Applicants are encouraged to confirm model compatibility with AEMO before submitting a model with an application to connect.

A completed Connection Application Submission Review Checklist should be included with the submission, confirming that your submission is complete. AEMO strongly encourages the submission of sensitive information to be done in a secure manner (for example password protected files, secure transmission etc.).

The model package submitted by a Connection Applicant must be revised throughout a connection project, reflecting the stage of the process. The final (registered) data packages as defined under NER S5.5.2 are:

• R1 model package – must be submitted at least three months before commissioning as specified under NER S5.2.4,
• R2 model package – is the validated data, and must be submitted, along with an R2 model verification report, within three months of the final commissioning tests being completed as specified under NER S5.2.4.

Management of NEM Connected Plant Models

In performing its functions as the market and system operator for the NEM, AEMO has access to information that is protected under the National Electricity Law and National Electricity Rules. This includes equipment models and associated information relating to plant that is connected, or to be connected, to the NEM power system.

AEMO has prepared an explainer document that provides an overview of how AEMO manages models and related confidential information for NEM connected plant, and addresses some frequently asked questions.

Related documents

For more details on software modelling requirements see the following documents:

• Connection Application Submission Review Checklist (465 KB, pdf)
• Power System Model Guidelines (1.3 MB, pdf) – detailed document outlining required RMS and EMT model features and behaviours and documentation. 
• Guideline and Template for preparation of a Releasable User Guide (1 MB, pdf) – outlining the requirements of a Releasable User Guide
• Dynamic Model Acceptance Test Guideline (1.5 MB, pdf)
  • Dynamic Model Acceptance Test Guideline Example Scripts – zip file containing example DMAT scripts and supporting documentation
  • Dynamic Model Acceptance Test Guideline Example Scripts - Disclaimer and File Password – disclaimer which must be read before use of the example scripts, along with the password to access the scripts
• R2 Testing Guideline – providing guidance for preparing test programs intended to validate models and derive data.
• Turbine Governor Testing and Model Validation Guideline – providing Generators with test guidelines suitable for demonstrating compliance with agreed performance standards, as well as deriving validated turbine-governor model data.
• Guidelines for Assessment of Generator Performance Standards (1.37 MB, pdf)