GridLAB-D
The Next-Generation Simulation Software
A power-distribution simulation and analysis tool for modeling distribution systems, distributed energy resources, automation, and end-use technologies over time.
About the Project
Why use this?
GridLAB-D is a flexible simulation environment developed by the U.S. Department of Energy at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. It models the interaction of millions of independent devices using differential equations, allowing engineers to study distribution systems across time scales from sub-seconds to many years.
It is particularly valuable for studying distributed energy resources, demand response, distribution automation, retail markets, and evolving load behavior. Utilities, regulators, and researchers use GridLAB-D when reduced-order aggregate models are insufficient and detailed device-level interactions matter. [81]
Key Features
- Distribution-system simulation with detailed device-level modeling
- Agent-based and information-based modeling tools
- Support for DER, distribution automation, and retail-market studies
- Handles time scales from sub-seconds to years
- Interfaces to third-party power-system analysis tools and data systems
- Reference / Repo
- https://github.com/gridlab-d/gridlab-d
- Tool / Hosted
- https://www.gridlabd.org/
- Replaces / Alternative to
- CYME, Synergi Electric
- Free layer
- open-source