The role of digital twins in shaping sustainable grids

Electric utilities in Australia face many challenges. Climate change is a major concern, along with vegetation encroachment, legacy systems and rising cybersecurity threats, which all further complicate the industry’s resilience and reliability.

To meet the government’s target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the energy sector must find innovative solutions to maintain reliability while transitioning to cleaner technologies.

A key technology that has gained traction in recent years is digital twins. Australian states are already making substantial investments in different areas with this technology, with NSW committing $40 million, Victoria investing $37.4 millio, and Western Australia leading with a $140 million investment.

These advanced visualisation and analysis platforms enable real-time monitoring, modelling and optimisation of energy grids, leading to more effective resource management. If utility organisations understand how to leverage this technology, they will contribute to the development of more sustainable grids. Here are some of the benefits.

Reliability and resilience

Imagine you are managing a vast utility grid, constantly striving to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. A digital twin is your go-to technology for ensuring grid reliability and resilience. Think of it as a dynamic, interactive map of your entire grid, providing you with a real-time visual snapshot of how everything is functioning. You can see performance metrics, spot network anomalies, receive feedback from analytics and track changes as they happen.

By connecting these data with other essential systems — such as geographic information systems (GIS), simulation technology and asset management — the digital twin becomes your single source of truth. And it doesn’t stop at providing a static picture; it actively links the physical grid model with operational and engineering data and simulation capabilities. This connection offers you deep, actionable insights into your grid’s status. You can respond promptly to emerging needs, extend the operational life of critical assets, and reduce risks, losses and system failures.

In essence, a digital twin empowers you to keep the grid running optimally, safeguarding both your infrastructure investments and the reliable service that you provide to customers.

Design and project efficiency

Image credit: iStock.com/SimonSkafar

A digital twin’s value begins well before operations, playing a crucial role in a utility’s design efforts.

For the grid to evolve, the real-time digital twin used in operations is repurposed to initiate the design process, ensuring accurate representation of existing conditions. For greenfield projects, the digital twin will start as a simple distribution diagram combined with physical models, such as maps and GIS information. Designers may incorporate electrical designs and protection controls, using integrated engineering analysis software to optimise operations and evaluate potential failures.

As the design process advances, dynamic 4D modelling captures a comprehensive record of all changes, storing physical and engineering modifications within the digital twin. It provides utilities with critical historical data and facilitates business processes, such as design reviews.

Integration of renewables

In May, the engineering community gathered at Bentley Systems’ Illuminate event in Sydney, where Bob Freeman, Information Management Lead at WSP in Australia, highlighted how digital twins are not just about technology; they represent the future of sustainability, enabling us to design with foresight and responsibility for generations to come.

The Australian Energy Market Operator predicts that solar and wind capacity in the national grid will triple by 2030, and rooftop solar capacity is expected to double. That’s why Australia needs a well-rounded strategy to integrate more renewable energy into the existing power systems. Digital twins can be a game changer.

By providing a real-time picture of how solar panels and wind turbines operate, they enable utilities to fine-tune energy production and distribution strategies effectively. Operators can monitor these energy sources continuously, adjusting operations to maximise efficiency and respond swiftly to fluctuations in output.

A sustainable future for electricity

Digital twins are revolutionising the management of electrical grids, offering utilities a transformative tool for precise, forward-looking ecosystem management. By facilitating the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and minimising carbon emissions, electrical utilities will visualise and assess the environmental impacts of their operations. This capability guides decisions that prioritise sustainable development, helping to achieve environmental goals.

In essence, digital twins empower utilities to navigate the complexities of the energy sector effectively. By promoting operational excellence and driving towards a sustainable energy future, they pave the way for enhanced efficiency, reduced environmental impact and strategic decision-making in utility management, all while ensuring safe, reliable and affordable energy delivery.

*Paul King is Director of Solution Engineering at Bentley Systems.

Top image credit: iStock.com/coffeekai