Microgrid and renewable energy
As a pioneering leader in power systems simulation, working with world-leading utilities for over three decades, we have helped deploy cutting-edge microgrid real-time simulation projects globally. Always at the cusp of innovation, our solutions test the systems required for any level of microgrid control, whether through real-time or accelerated simulation.
They trust us
Challenges
From lab to field: a smarter path to microgrids
Microgrids pose unique challenges over traditional power grids: variable topologies, complex control and protection systems, fast power electronics, and the need to interoperate multivendor equipment. These challenges make field testing complex and risky.
The IEEE 2030.8-2018 standard recommends hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) testing for the development, validation, and integration of microgrid control and protection systems. With HIL, you can test and optimize devices prior to release and installation, accelerate R&D and integration, and demonstrate proofs of concept.
Applications
Hardware-in-the loop and power hardware-in-the loop made for microgrids
Using HIL and PHIL for microgrid controller testing. Our HIL and PHIL advanced and entry-level systems allow engineers and researchers to design and validate their models, perform power grid studies, and emulate AC or DC grids to test power devices under different operating conditions.
Advantages
Why choose OPAL-RT?
With decades of collaboration alongside industry leaders and world-renowned research institutions, our expertise in HIL systems continues to drive innovation in microgrid and renewable energy applications.
Test fast DER controllers
Test high-frequency DER controllers combining sub-μs EMT simulation with a low-latency simulator architecture and fast I/Os, including full support for a wide range of communication protocols such as IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-104, C37.118, DNP3, and Modbus.
Efficient Co-Simulation
Run multiple solvers concurrently on a single real-time simulator, leveraging both processors and FPGAs to optimize performance and modeling flexibility.
Exclusive IEEE 1547-compliant inverter control library
Gain a competitive edge with the world’s only smart inverter control library tailored for IEEE 1547. Validate interconnection performance, automate grid forming and grid support testing, and shorten time to market.
Unmatched speed for tightly coupled models
When parallelization isn’t an option, raw processing power matters. Leverage the latest Intel/AMD CPU advancements to brute-force tightly coupled models and achieve sub-50 µs time steps on industry benchmarks like the GHOST by NREL/MIT.
Success story
HIL for Hawaii’s renewable grid in collaboration with Siemens
To support Hawaii’s goal of 100% renewable energy, Siemens and OPAL-RT deployed a real-time HIL simulation to test and validate advanced grid control systems. Using a digital twin of the island’s power grid, the project ensures stable, resilient operation in high-renewable scenarios—paving the way for smarter, cleaner microgrids.
The development and validation of innovative solutions for such systems is not possible without a high-fidelity digital twin of the real system. For our project, OPAL-RT was of great support to develop this virtual environment for our demonstrator.
Dr. Ulrich Muenz
Principal Key Expert Control Systems at Siemens
Products
The essentials for microgrid testing
Discover the tools that professionals depend on for fast and precise testing. Ensure optimal performance with our products.
Microgrid PHIL Test Bench
OP1420
The most complete microgrid PHIL test bench, backed by over 25 years of experience working with the industry and top research laboratories in the world
Ultra-Fast EMT Simulation and HIL Testing
eHS
Advanced FPGA technology for high-fidelity, low-latency, power systems and power electronics simulation, enabling HIL testing across energy, automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.
EMT Simulation and HIL Testing
HYPERSIM
High-fidelity platform for EMT simulation, SIL and HIL testing, ideal for validating control, protection, grid integration and large-scale stability across all stages of power system development.
Compact mid-range simulator
OP4610XG
Compact yet powerful mid-range simulator offering an all-in-one solution that combines the latest 6-core AMD Ryzen™ 5 CPU with the power of an AMD Kintex™-7 410T FPGA.
FAQ
Find the answers to your questions
What communication protocols do you support?
Consult our comprehensive list of supported protocols here: Communication Protocols
Let’s get to work
Please contact us for more details or any inquiries. Our local team of experts will be pleased to promptly answer any of your questions.