ARPA-E Seeking Innovative New Ideas on how to Improve the Electric Grid

A new competition seeks new software that would allow for a more secure, efficient electric grid. The inaugural Grid Optimization (GO) Competition, created by the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) with support from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, is comprised of a series of challenges to create software management solutions that will increase the resiliency and optimization of the electric grid.

The first challenge of the competition is currently open. To move to the next round, applicants must solve a security-constrained optimal power flow (SCOPF) problem. Algorithms will be tested on complex, realistic power system models, with applicants scored on how well their algorithms perform relative to one another. In recent years, there have been significant strides made in computations power. These advancements in optimization solvers have encouraged research on new approaches to grid operations and new approaches to solve SCOPF, among other issues with the electric grid. The challenge is currently open and will close in April 2019.

The second challenge will start next year and last for roughly a year. It will build on the models used in the first challenge, and may include complicating factors such as solving larger network models, optimizing power flows over both transmission and distribution systems, stochastic optimization, leveraging power flow control devices, increased model detail (node/breaker, substation/protection models, etc.) and/or including unit commitment.

For further information about the GO Competition, and to submit an entry, click here: https://gocompetition.energy.gov/