Smart Grid Interoperability lab at the joint research centre (JRC) of the European Commission: Towards a European platform for real time simulation

The Smart Grid Interoperability lab (SGILab) of the JRC is a testing facility on the interoperability of smart grid systems. Its aim is to assess technological implementations according to proposed standards, use cases and processes in conjunction with applicable reference architectures. The goal is to contribute to policy making and industrial innovation regarding the modernization of the electricity grid. The lab will work on the verification of the interworks among grid components, benchmarking of different solutions, and identification of gaps and challenges. The work is performed in collaboration with industry and research institutions. The paper presents the scope of the lab giving emphasis to the European political context. Furthermore, it presents the latest research activities of the lab, focusing on interoperability and assessing new technologies as well as on the integration of its simulation facilities with other European smart grid labs with the aim to develop a pan-European platform for testing and simulation for power systems analysis.