Power System Simulator for Engineering (PSS®E) is a powerful software suite used for the simulation, analysis, and optimization of electrical power transmission networks. Version 36.2.1 builds upon its long history of innovation, offering advanced capabilities for both planning and operational studies.

Here are some of the key features of PSS®E 36.2.1:

·       Power Flow Analysis: Determines voltages, currents, and power flows in steady-state conditions for symmetrical and asymmetrical three-phase systems. It supports a wide range of load and generation modeling.

·       Short Circuit Analysis: Calculates fault currents according to various international standards, including balanced and unbalanced fault scenarios.

·       Dynamic and Transient Stability Simulation: Analyzes the system's behavior over short time scales (seconds to tens of seconds) under various disturbances, crucial for understanding system stability and response to events like generator trips or faults.

·       Contingency Analysis: Evaluates the impact of equipment failures or outages on system security and stability. This includes deterministic and probabilistic approaches.

·       Optimal Power Flow (OPF): Optimizes system operation by minimizing costs, losses, or maximizing performance while respecting operational constraints.

·       Voltage Stability Analysis: Assess the system's ability to maintain acceptable voltage levels under varying load conditions.

·       Harmonics Analysis: Studies the presence and impact of harmonic distortions in the power system.

·       Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) Analysis: Analyzes the effects of geomagnetic disturbances on the network.

·       Time Series Power Flow: Simulates system behavior over extended periods with time-varying load and generation profiles, essential for renewable energy integration studies.

·       Extensive Dynamic Model Library: Includes a vast collection of standard vendor-specific dynamic models for generators, turbines, exciters, governors, FACTS devices, and renewable energy systems. User-defined models can also be developed and integrated.

·       Python® API for Automation: Offers a comprehensive Python API, enabling extensive automation of workflows, custom analysis scripts, and integration with other tools. This is a significant feature for efficiency and advanced analysis.

·       Hybrid Cloud Module: Leverages cloud computing power to accelerate simulations, especially for complex scenarios and large datasets, by offloading computation from local machines.

·       Enhanced Short Circuit Modeling: Improvements in short circuit calculations, including modeling of MOV protected series capacitors.

·       Dynamic Model Standardization: Standardization of dynamic models (eg, CONEC, CONET) for easier integration and compatibility.

·       Security Constrained Optimal Power Flow (SCOPF): Integrates contingency analysis into the OPF to ensure system security under potential outages.

·       Interactive Data Checking: Visualizes data warnings and errors directly within spreadsheets and model edit dialogs for faster error correction.

·       Automated Grid Code Compliance: Tools to help ensure compliance with grid codes for renewable energy integration and other grid connection requirements.

·       Graphical User Interface (GUI): Provides an interactive and user-friendly environment for network modeling, analysis, and visualization.

·       Integrated Plot Facility: Powerful tools for creating and customizing plots of simulation results.

·       Scenario Manager: Manages different study cases, scenarios, and project variants for organized analysis.

·       Model Management: Tools to help users manage the various files and data required for building and maintaining network models.

·       GIS Integration: Supports integration with Geographic Information Systems for enhanced spatial visualization and analysis.