How WEB Aruba Uses ETAP Digital Twin and Operator Training Simulator to Navigate Grid Stability in Renewable Energy-Rich Environments

Enhancing our ETAP model and implementing the real-time model offers several benefits, including improved network monitoring, faster incident response, and increased operational efficiency and reliability. Since the ETAP Real-Time also integrates playback features, it will significantly facilitate troubleshooting in root cause analysis investigations once an incident occurs in the electrical system, including the ability to perform what-if scenarios.
By Jairo Vrolijk, Senior Technical Support Engineer at WEB Aruba N.V.

This case study provides an in-depth analysis of Web Aruba Company's complex electric grid, a leading player in renewable energy integration. It highlights this network's distinctive features and operational complexities. It examines how ETAP eOTS seamlessly integrates into Web Aruba's daily network operations. Through real-world examples and case studies, we demonstrate how ETAP eOTS enhances the resilience and performance of the Web Aruba network, ensuring reliable and stable energy delivery despite the volatility of renewable energy.

Aruba's desalination history dates back more than a hundred years.  In 2004, WEB began with the development of a wind turbine. In 2008, WEB Aruba expanded its power generation by using reciprocating engines. In line with WEB Aruba’s renewable energy strategy, WEB initiated several projects to store renewable energy. These projects are crucial in maintaining a stable and efficient power grid. Battery Energy Storage (BESS) was the next solution installed in the existing renewable energy mix and power grid. The Flywheel project is another project that helps maintain the power grid's stability and efficiency. Web Aruba's primary goal is to deliver the best water, energy, and related products and services in a reliable, affordable, and sustainable manner.

Location: Oranjestad, Aruba

Year: 2023

Operator Training Simulator for electricians working on a Real-time distribution model

Challenges

  • Providing a real-time electrical grid model accessible to operators and trainees. The model should accurately represent the WEB electrical network, including High-Voltage, Medium-Voltage, and Low-Voltage circuit breakers, their statuses, and associated electrical parameters.
  • Introduction of the scope of regular training for operators, as well as robust continuous improvement, and as a rule.
  • Provide training in the functional principles of the electrical network, turbines, engines, and generators in a risk-free environment.
  • Developing electrical operators' competency and confidence in handling network operations, to achieve repetitive behaviors and decisions in typical cases and emergencies.
  • Enhancing decision-making and response time to incidents.
  • Allowing continuous monitoring and control of the electrical network and its performance.
  • The training platform should be integrated with accurate data from the area in real-time to help understand the processes and simulate work and decision-making under actual conditions.

Which solutions did they choose?

Selected applications

They chose ETAP OTS (Operator Training Simulator), which integrates with the ETAP Digital Twin platform and operates in Real-time. This platform represents a virtual model of the real-world power grid.

The ETAP online cloud solution was chosen, offering modeling, integration, and simulation. 

Why do they use Etap?

Main Customer Benefits

  • The Operating Training Simulator provides a risk-free environment for electrical operators to train and improve their skills, ultimately contributing to better network performance.
  • Enhanced network monitoring by improved decision-making, incident response, and operational efficiency and reliability.
  • Implement the Operator Training Simulator feature with routine training programs to keep the workforce up-to-date and well-oriented.
  • Understanding the load system, generation system, energy production, protection system, machine behavior, and a complete list of simulations to reflect the facility's operation.
  • Further innovations, such as implementing an energy management system, are in line with the sustainability company's mission.

What do they think about ETAP?

Opinions

To manage and analyze our electrical network, we rely on the ETAP model, which is crucial in ensuring network efficiency, safety, and reliability.
By Jairo Vrolijk, Senior Technical Support Engineer at WEB Aruba N.V.

In conclusion, all cooperation with ETAP to enhance Web Aruba's electrical network and implement the real-time model has been a valuable and rewarding experience. We look forward to reaping the benefits of this project and continuing our efforts to enhance our electrical infrastructure, thereby providing a reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy network for the island of Aruba.
By Jairo Vrolijk, Senior Technical Support Engineer at WEB Aruba N.V.



Videos

Navigating Grid Stability in Renewable Energy-Rich Environments: ETAP's Operator Training Simulator

In transmission systems grappling with the unpredictability of renewable energy sources, ETAP's Operator Training Simulator (OTS) provides a cutting-edge solution, leveraging digital twin technology and real-time data to anticipate system performance uncertainties, as demonstrated through its integration into Web Aruba's operations, enhancing grid resilience and efficiency amidst renewable energy variability.


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