Power system model development
Power system models for DER and load
AEMO is improving power system models to better represent the behaviour of DER and load during power system disturbances.
PSS®E models for load and distributed PV in the NEM
In collaboration with Network Service Providers (NSPs), AEMO has developed dynamic models to represent the aggregate behaviour of distributed PV and composite load during NEM power system disturbances. The development of these models, and their validation against historical disturbances is documented in these reports:
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04/06/2025
Validation of Dynamic Models for Distributed PV and Composite Load (2025)
This memo validates AEMO’s dynamic models for distributed PV and composite load against real-world disturbances, showing significant improvements over traditional approaches in capturing critical behaviours like shake-off and transient demand swings. It also urges TNSPs to review their limit advice, apply the models with awareness of their limitations, and support improved data collection to enhance power system planning and stability.
3.83 MB -
20/06/2024
PSS®E composite load and distributed PV model updates
This report outlines AEMO’s latest updates to the PSS®E CMLD and distributed PV (DERAEMO1) models, enhancing their accuracy in representing load and inverter behaviour during power system disturbances. These refinements are critical for improving system stability assessments and supporting secure operation of the NEM.
4.04 MB -
23/06/2023
Composite load model assessment of load relief
This fact sheet outlines AEMO’s updated assessment of load relief in the NEM, confirming that a 0.5% value remains appropriate based on detailed analysis of load composition and system response.
218.54 KB -
25/11/2022
PSS®E models for load and distributed PV in the NEM
This report outlines AEMO’s development and validation of advanced PSS®E models for load and distributed photovoltaic (DPV) systems in the National Electricity Market (NEM). These models improve the accuracy of power system simulations, helping ensure secure and reliable grid operations as DPV penetration increases.
7.93 MB
The intention is for the models to be used by Transmission Network Service Providers to review network stability limits in periods with high levels of distributed PV generation, so that the possibility of distributed PV shake-off can be incorporated into those limits. This will allow limits to be updated to consider the increasing role of distributed PV in determining the operating envelope of the power system.
PSCAD models for load and distributed PV in the NEM
AEMO commissioned Manitoba Hydro International Ltd.(MHI) to develop and validate dynamic models to represent the bulk aggregate changes in active and reactive power observed at each transmission bus due to changes in load and distributed PV. These models were designed as a replica of the PSS®E models, with the addition of fractional four-stage voltage phase-angle jump tripping. This behaviour cannot be accurately represented in an RMS-based simulation platform such as PSS®E. They are “performance” models that have been developed with a focus on representing the aggregate net load/DPV shake-off observed at the transmission bus. They have not been designed to represent the complex control systems and internal workings of individual inverters.When tested against seven different historical voltage disturbances occurring in various NEM regions during 2018 to 2021, the models generally capture 63-112% of the observed load shake-off, and 65-157% of the observed DPV shake-off.
AEMO has made these models available to Transmission Network Service Providers (TNSPs) so they can be used to review power system limits in periods with high levels of distributed PV generation, and the possibility of distributed PV and load shake-off can be incorporated into those limits. TNSPs are responsible for ensuring that any models applied are fit for purpose.
Further supporting materials
Materials prepared to support the parameters and development of these models include:
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20/06/2024
University of Wollongong (UoW): Composite load model motor D testing
3.48 MB -
28/08/2020
Delta Q Consulting: Commercial Load Composition
This report provides a detailed assessment of the composition of commercial load in each NEM region. The analysis is a foundation for development of AEMO’s load models in power system modelling platforms (PSS®E and PSCAD).
3.29 MB -
28/08/2020
Energy Efficient Strategies (EES) Consulting: Air conditioning and refrigeration load composition
This report provides a detailed assessment of the proportion of load related to single phase air conditioning and refrigeration. This is another key input to AEMO’s load model development.
4.66 MB -
28/08/2020
Energy Efficient Strategies (EES) Consulting: Stall measurements for refrigerators
This report provides field measurements conducted on a range of household and commercial refrigerators. This provides insight into the behaviour of these devices during power system disturbances, to inform AEMO’s model development.
2.83 MB -
28/06/2019
PEACE Consulting: Developing Dynamic Load Models for the Australian Eastern Interconnected System
This report provides an overview of the development and calibration of the first versions of AEMO’s load and DER power system models.
3.03 MB
These reports may be useful to those stakeholders utilising AEMO’s models. For further information regarding these reports and the models being developed by AEMO, contact DERProgram@aemo.com.au.