With SMIGHT NeMS, SMIGHT GmbH is introducing its new solution for dynamic grid management in the low-voltage grid. It builds on the proven combination of measurement technology and grid transparency and takes this approach to the next level: from meeting regulatory requirements and forecast-based grid operation to the use of grid-supportive flexibility.

The requirements facing distribution system operators are changing rapidly. Section 14a of the German Energy Industry Act (EnWG) marks the beginning of controllable low-voltage grids. Feed-in management in the context of Section 9 of the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), the controllability check pursuant to Section 12 EnWG, and coordination between the low- and medium-voltage levels pursuant to Section 13a EnWG are also becoming increasingly important. At the same time, the number of controllable generators and consumers continues to grow. Grid operators therefore need a central system that brings individual processes together, coordinates control measures and enables forward-looking operation of the low-voltage grid. This is essential to maintaining stable and cost-effective grid operation under these conditions.

From control to dynamic grid management

With SMIGHT NeMS, SMIGHT brings together all functions for low-voltage grid operation on a central platform. The solution already supports distribution system operators in implementing Section 14a EnWG today: from congestion detection and control through to documentation of the entire control chain. Designed as an open system, it integrates into grid operators’ existing IT landscapes and processes measurement data independently of manufacturer – from both secondary substations and smart metering systems. SMIGHT’s existing control solution, SMIGHT IQ Copilot, is fully integrated into the new grid management system.

Control today – anticipate tomorrow

Beyond regulatory requirements, SMIGHT NeMS provides the foundation for the grid operation of the future through forward-looking grid management. The solution adapts to each grid operator’s level of digitalisation. Where GIS data, grid models or other data sources are available, these are integrated and combined to create a dynamic representation of the grid.

At its core is the Adaptive Dynamic Twin, which combines real measurement data with the grid hierarchy – i.e. the allocation of substations, feeders and grid connections – as well as additional information such as weather data. On this basis, SMIGHT NeMS generates load and feed-in forecasts with a horizon of at least 48 and up to 72 hours. This enables grid operators to identify critical grid situations at an early stage, assess developments more effectively and plan necessary control measures in good time.

In addition, SMIGHT NeMS determines the actual control potential available in the low-voltage grid and makes it available to higher voltage levels for redispatch and congestion management. Control requests from the medium- and high-voltage levels are coordinated in such a way that they do not create additional congestion in the low-voltage grid. The system reports back the extent to which the requested measures can be implemented. In future, forecasts will also feed directly into control processes, allowing interventions to be more precisely dimensioned and initiated at the right time.

The combination of measurement data, forecasts and the dynamic twin will provide the basis for managing grid-supportive flexibility in the future. The aim is to deploy available flexibility where it can make the greatest contribution to distribution grid stability and support an efficient energy system.

“With SMIGHT NeMS, we offer an open platform that combines grid transparency, control and dynamic grid management in a single solution. At the same time, we integrate with existing data systems. This provides investment security and gives grid operators the confidence that they are technologically well positioned to meet future requirements,” says Oliver Deuschle, Managing Director of SMIGHT GmbH.

One platform for operational grid management

With the introduction of SMIGHT NeMS, SMIGHT is systematically advancing its product portfolio. While SMIGHT Grid2 provides the data foundation in the grid and the SMIGHT IQ Cockpit delivers the necessary transparency, SMIGHT NeMS takes over low-voltage grid operation: from control processes and forecast-based control decisions through to the coordination of future flexibility processes.

Fig. 1: Predictive grid operation with SMIGHT NeMS: Detect grid conditions, forecast developments, and take targeted control actions.