Power flow analysis and steady-state studies using PSS®E (PSSC_500)

Introduction

Electric power systems constitute one of the most complex and critical infrastructures of modern society. The generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical energy require the coordinated operation of thousands of interconnected elements: power plants, substations, transmission lines, transformers, and a growing diversity of generation and consumption technologies. In this context, understanding how energy flows within an electrical network and how different components respond to operational changes or contingencies is a fundamental capability for engineers involved in the planning, operation, and expansion of power systems. Power flow analysis forms the basis of virtually all steady-state power system studies. Through this type of analysis, it is possible to determine fundamental system variables such as:

• Voltage magnitudes and angles at buses
• Active and reactive power flows
• Loading of lines and transformers
• System losses
• Operating and security margins

Due to the size and complexity of today’s power systems, these analyses are carried out using specialized simulation tools. Among the simulation tools used for power system analysis, PSS®E (Power System Simulator for Engineering) stands out as the most recognized and widely used tool worldwide by system operators, electric utilities, consulting firms, and research centers. This course introduces participants to the practical use of PSS®E for power flow analysis and steady-state studies, combining conceptual fundamentals with applied exercises directly in the software. Throughout the course, participants will not only learn how to use the tool, but also how to interpret results, diagnose problems, and develop engineering judgment for the analysis of real-world power networks.

Objective

The objective of this course is to provide participants with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills needed to model, analyze, and interpret power flow studies in electrical systems using PSS®E.By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles of steady-state power flow analysis.
• Efficiently navigate and use the PSS®E interface.
• Build and modify power system models.
• Execute power flow solutions and interpret results.
• Identify and resolve common power flow convergence issues.
• Automate studies using the software’s programming tools.
• Perform complementary analyses such as:
  • Contingency analysis
  • Transfer limits
  • Balanced switching
  • Fault analysis
  • PV/QV studies

Beyond the operational use of the software, the course aims for participants to develop a comprehensive understanding of steady-state power system behavior, strengthening their ability to perform technical studies with rigor and professional judgment.

Background

Since the mid-20th century, computational analysis of power systems has evolved significantly as a result of the growth of electric grids and the need to ensure their safe and reliable operation. The first power flow analysis programs were developed in academic environments and were later adopted by electric utilities and system operators to analyze increasingly complex networks. In this context, PSS®E (Power System Simulator for Engineering) emerged and has since become the industry-standard tool for power system analysis. Currently, PSS®E is used by:

• Power system operators
• Generation, transmission, and distribution companies
• Electrical and energy engineering consulting firms
• Electrical equipment manufacturers
• Universities and research centers

The tool enables a wide variety of studies, including:

• Power flow analysis
• Contingency analysis
• System stability and dynamics
• Linear analysis and transfer limits
• Short-circuit analysis
• Optimal power flows
• Time-series simulations
• Harmonic analysis
• Transmission line parameter calculation
• Geomagnetically induced current (GIC) analysis
• User-defined models
• Planning and expansion studies
• Renewable energy integration
• Other relevant studies

In today’s context of energy transition, increasing electrification, and greater operational complexity of power systems, mastery of simulation tools such as PSS®E has become a highly valued competency for professionals in the electric power sector. This course aims to introduce participants to this tool in a structured, practical manner, oriented toward its application in real-world power system studies.

Delivery Mode

• In-person:

  Siemens Corporate Offices, Mexico City (CDMX)

• Online:

  Webex

Target Audience

• Power system electrical engineers
• Engineers from transmission, distribution, generation companies, system operators, and control centers
• Engineers responsible for industrial electrical systems
• Electrical engineering students
• Energy sector professionals

Duration

• 5 days (30 hours)
• Language:

  Spanish

Dates

• July 6–10, 2026 (Group 1)
• July 13–17, 2026 (Group 2)

Materials

Training materials have been developed specifically for PSS®E training courses. Siemens will provide all necessary training materials, including course manuals and reference materials in PDF format (Portable Document Format). Each participant will receive individual copies of the training materials. The content of the PSS®E training materials is confidential and proprietary, protected by Siemens copyright, and may only be used by course participants.

Content

• Overview of PSS®E
• Getting Started
  • Basic power flow model parameters
  • Input data and power flow solution
  • Creation of a one-line diagram
• Understanding the Power Flow Solution
  • Power flow solution and report generation
  • Review of power flow results
  • Practical exercises
• Adding and Modifying Data
  • Power flow model parameters – Part II
  • Model data modification
  • Network topology modification
  • Exercises
• Toolbars and Diagrams
  • Toolbars
  • Diagram options and properties
  • Exercises
• Power Flow Solution Difficulties
  • Convergence problems
  • Data review
  • Exercises
• Program Automation
  • Response files
  • IPLAN
  • Python
  • Exercises
• Contingency and Transfer Limit Analysis
  • Linear power flow model
  • Contingency analysis
  • Transfer limit analysis
  • Exercises
• Balanced Switching
  • Load-to-generator conversion
  • Balanced faults and switching analysis
  • Exercises
• Fault Analysis
  • Modeling
  • Line parameter calculation
  • Automation and detailed analysis
  • Special applications
  • Exercises
• Data Management
  • RAW data files
  • Data import and export
  • Network reduction
  • Power flow data unification
  • Exercises
• Special Applications (e.g., PV/QV)
  • PV & QV analysis
  • Inertial / governor power flow
  • Multi-level contingency analysis
  • New features
  • Exercises
• Post-Course Information

Course Registration and Contact Information

Registration requests must be submitted by completing the form at the link provided. Within three (3) business days, Siemens personnel will contact applicants and provide payment information.

Fees

• Standard:

  USD 2,750

• Early Registration:

  USD 2,500

• Group/Corporate (+3):

  USD 2,300

• Students (limited to 3 seats):

  USD 1,375

General Enrollment

• 20% of the course cost (non-refundable)
• Enrollment is non-refundable, as it guarantees your seat and allows planning for logistics, instructors, and materials.
• The remaining balance must be paid at least 15 days before the course start date.
• Seats are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation Policy

Siemens may cancel classes with fewer than the minimum of five (5) enrolled students, with at least two weeks’ notice prior to the scheduled start date. Enrolled students will be notified of the cancellation and may optionally be rescheduled for a later date.

Cancellations More Than 30 Days in Advance

• Registration may be rescheduled to another course edition at no additional charge.
• Alternatively, a refund of the amount paid (excluding the enrollment fee) may be requested.

Cancellations Between 15 and 29 Days in Advance

• Registration may be rescheduled to another course edition.
• If a refund is requested, an administrative fee of 20% of the amount paid will be applied to cover incurred costs.

Cancellations Less Than 2 Weeks in Advance

• No refunds will be issued.
• The only available option is to reschedule the registration to another course edition, subject to availability.
• This measure ensures responsible seat management and helps maintain course quality for all participants.

For more information about our courses or to request customized training, please contact us by sending your request to: cesar.alfaro_luna@siemens.com