An Open-source Automated Distribution Network Analysis (O-ADNA) tool for Modeling and Visualization

Distribution network analysis is a crucial application for network operators, especially with the widespread deployment of distributed energy resources. Over the years, many platforms for analysis have been developed and automated through different programs. Some platforms are open-source, like OpenDSS, GridLAB-D, etc., while tools like Matlab/Simulink and ETAP are commercial software that requires a license, which limits their adoption. This paper presents a python-based Open-source Automated Distribution Network Analysis (O-ADNA) development that provides a fully automated modeling and visualization tool The developed analysis framework uses OpenDSS to model and analyze the distribution networks, whereas Grafana is used for visualizing the results. The modeling relies on OpenDSS, which imports the network information from a CSV file containing information about the network, like bus connection, line parameters, and the load information connected to each bus. The developed tool can perform analysis in both snap-shot and time-series modes. In snap-shot analysis, the network is solved using the rated values for the loads. The time-series analysis requires a load profile to solve the system at each time stamp. The results are processed using Python, sent to a database, and visualized in Grafana. The features of O-ADNA are demonstrated for a utility distribution network in Dubai using both the snap-shot and time-series simulations.