Inverter-based resources (IBR) design and integration

Accelerate the development, validation, compliance testing, and integration of inverter-based resources (IBRs) with OPAL-RT’s real-time simulation solutions. From solar and wind systems to energy storage and plant power controllers, our tools—ranging from Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) to Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) at both signal and power levels—feature advanced blackbox integration to ensure performance, reliability, and grid readiness across the entire energy value chain.

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They trust us

A shifting landscape

Accurate and reliable simulation for IBRs for inverter-based resources

The power system is evolving rapidly to meet growing demand and increasing renewable integration. With higher penetration of inverter-based resources (IBRs), robust testing is essential to ensure grid stability, reliability, and compliance.

OPAL-RT enables full-cycle validation of IBRs through comprehensive real-time simulation workflows—spanning Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), and Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL). Our solutions empower OEMs, integrators, consulting firms, and system operators to test, benchmark, and certify solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), wind power, and plant power controllers (PPCs) for performance, reliability, and grid code compliance.

Expertise you can rely on

A proven track record in power systems simulation

With decades of collaboration with industry leaders and top research institutions, OPAL-RT brings proven expertise in real-time power systems and power electronics simulation. Our trusted solutions drive innovation in inverter-based resource applications across the entire V-model lifecycle.

01

Accelerate IBR development

Integrated software and hardware solutions shorten development cycles and streamline validation workflows.

02

Improve grid stability & reliability

Validate IBR performance across diverse testing scenarios, including EMT, stability, and protection studies.

03

Perform high-fidelity device testing

Connect controllers, inverters, PMU, or SCADA systems, replay critical grid events, and inject faults for robust device validation.

04

Flexible model conversion

Import existing models into OPAL-RT’s real-time platform from PSCAD, PowerFactory, PSS®E, Simulink®, CYME, EMTP, GridLAB-D and more through built-in blackbox integration capabilities.

Voices from the field

Empowering innovators

Explore how leading institutions and organizations leverage OPAL-RT to achieve remarkable results.

We have used OPAL-RT to validate power plant controller performance against the models before they get sent to site. In a recent 50MW solar project, we saved up to 5 months and resolved 15+ issues related to control system integration, modelling and design.

Marty Johnson

Senior Power System Engineer at EPEC Group

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OPAL-RT was of great support to develop the virtual environment required for our demonstrator. The development and validation of innovative solutions for such systems would not have been possible without this high-fidelity digital twin of the real system.

Dr. Ulrich Muenz

Principal Key Expert Control Systems at Siemens

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With OPAL-RT’s high-performance simulators, we successfully implemented our Sunny Central Storage UP inverter controller. This allowed us to validate large-scale IBR behavior with full control, fidelity and scalability.

Christian Hardt

System Architect at SMA Solar Technology

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Expert Consulting Services

Tailored support for your projects

OPAL-RT consulting services provide expert guidance in:

  • Custom model development

  • Simulation workflow design

  • Compliance verification and grid code testing

Partner with OPAL-RT consultants to accelerate your IBR projects

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Applications

Inverter-based resource testing

OPAL-RT supports practical, end-to-end testing for inverter-based resources. OEMs, developers, and system operators can simulate real-world scenarios to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance:

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Solar PV inverter validation

Test compiled controller models under realistic grid conditions to evaluate EMT response using HIL.

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BESS controller testing

Validate storage logic with sub-10 µs timesteps and realistic operating events using HIL.

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Plant power controller (PPC) validation & benchmarking

Ensure coordinated operation across multiple inverters and storage systems using HIL.

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Grid code compliance verification

Run SIL and HIL studies to confirm adherence to regional and international standards.

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Hybrid plant simulation

Combine solar, wind, and storage assets from different vendors for integrated system testing.

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Blackbox model integration

Test vendor-supplied controllers or inverters securely without exposing IP.

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Let’s get started in real-time

Whether you need more details or have a specific question, our experts are here to help. Contact us today for personalized support.

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