An alternate PowerFactory Matlab coupling approach

PowerFactory is a powerful power system analysis tool used for simulating the electrical grid. `Smart Grid' envisions a modernized electrical grid that uses communication to gather and act on information. The ever increasing communication and controls in power systems increases the complexity of the system. Co-simulation becomes essential to couple system simulators from different domains. This paper gives an overview of possible PowerFactory / Matlab coupling approaches. It further discusses the advantages and limitations of each of these. Additionally, an alternate coupling approach is suggested, its pros and cons are discussed. Two test cases have been implemented that highlight different advantages of the proposed method.