GridLABD

GridLAB-D is an open-source simulation environment for modeling electric power distribution systems and smart grid phenomena. It is designed to analyze the interactions among distribution networks, distributed energy resources, loads, and control systems. The platform supports time-series and event-driven simulations to study dynamic voltage, power flow, and equipment behavior under varying operating conditions.

The software employs a modular, object-oriented modeling language that defines electrical, thermal, and control components as distinct objects. Its execution engine advances the simulation in time, allowing detailed representation of devices such as lines, transformers, loads, sources, distributed energy resources (DERs), energy storage, and inverters. It includes programmable control logic for voltage regulation, demand response, and other smart-grid operations, along with libraries of standard components and facilities for user-defined models. GridLAB-D also supports integration with external data and tools, enabling flexible scenario construction and analysis.

Key capabilities include modeling complex feeder topologies, dynamic interactions between DERs and loads, and analysis of voltage profiles, power quality, and reliability under different policies and penetration levels. The platform is frequently used for planning studies, DER hosting capacity assessments, microgrid simulations, and research on market mechanisms and demand-side management. It supports scripting and automation for large-scale scenario runs and comparative studies, making it a common tool in academic and utility-focused research.

GridLAB-D is maintained by an active open-source community and is available through its project website and repositories. It runs on multiple platforms and emphasizes accessibility, reproducibility, and extensibility for researchers and practitioners working on distribution-system analysis and smart-grid experimentation.