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

Content and Structure

Background

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

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

The tool enables a wide range 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 analysis
• Harmonic analysis
• Transmission line parameter calculations
• Geomagnetically induced current (GIC) analysis
• User-defined models
• Planning and expansion studies
• Renewable energy integration
• Other relevant analyses

In today’s context of energy transition, increasing electrification, and growing system complexity, mastering simulation tools such as PSS®E has become a highly valued skill for energy professionals.This course introduces participants to the tool in a structured and practical way, focused on real-world application.

Introduction

Power systems are among the most complex and critical infrastructures in modern society. The generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity require the coordinated operation of thousands of interconnected elements, including power plants, substations, transmission lines, transformers, and an increasingly diverse set of generation and consumption technologies.Understanding how energy flows within a network and how system components respond to operational changes or contingencies is essential for engineers involved in planning, operation, and expansion.Power flow analysis forms the foundation of steady-state power system studies and allows determining key 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 modern power systems, these analyses are performed using specialized simulation tools. Among them, PSS®E stands out as one of the most widely recognized and used tools worldwide.This course introduces participants to the practical use of PSS®E for power flow and steady-state analysis, combining theoretical concepts with hands-on exercises. Participants will learn not only how to use the software, but also how to interpret results, diagnose issues, and develop sound engineering judgment.

Objective

The objective of this course is to provide participants with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills required to model, analyze, and interpret power flow studies 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
• Run power flow simulations and interpret results
• Identify and resolve convergence issues
• Automate studies using programming tools
• Perform complementary analyses such as:
  • Contingency analysis
  • Transfer limit analysis
  • Balanced switching
  • Fault analysis
  • PV/QV studies

Beyond software operation, the course develops a comprehensive understanding of steady-state power system behavior.

Delivery Mode

• In-person:

  Siemens, Mexico City (CDMX)

• Online:

  Webex

Course Content

Introduction to PSS®E

• Overview

Getting started and basic modeling

• Power flow model parameters
• Input data and solution methods
• Single-line diagram creation

Understanding results

• Report generation
• Result analysis
• Practice exercises

Data modification

• Model parameter adjustments
• Network topology changes
• Exercises

Tools and diagrams

• Toolbars
• Diagram settings and properties
• Exercises

Power flow solution challenges

• Convergence issues
• Data validation
• Exercises

Automation

• Response files
• IPLAN
• Python
• Exercises

Advanced analysis

• Contingency analysis
• Transfer limits
• Linear models

Switching and faults

• Load/generator conversion
• Balanced faults and switching analysis
• Exercises

Fault analysis

• Modeling
• Line parameter calculation
• Automation

Data management

• RAW files
• Data import/export
• Network reduction

Special applications

• PV/QV analysis
• Inertial/governor power flow
• Multi-level contingency analysis

Course wrap-up

• Post-course information

Target Audience

• Power system engineers
• Professionals in generation, transmission, and distribution
• System operators and control center engineers
• Industrial power system engineers
• Electrical engineering students
• Energy sector professionals

Course Details

• Duration:

  5 days (30 hours)

• Language:

  Spanish

Dates

• September 7–11

Materials

Siemens will provide all required training materials, including course manuals and reference documents in PDF format. Each participant will receive individual copies.All materials are confidential and protected by Siemens copyright.

Registration and Information

Registration requests should be submitted via the form. Participants will receive payment details and logistical information within 3 days.

Fees*

• Standard:

  USD 2,750

• Early registration:

  USD 2,500 (valid until August 7 or until full)

• Corporate/Group:

  USD 2,300 per person

• Students (limited):

  USD 1,375

*Conditions:

• 20% non-refundable registration fee
• Remaining balance due at least 15 days before course start
• Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis

Contact

For more information or special training requests:
📧 cesar.alfaro_luna@siemens.com