1. Introduction

1.1 Project Overview

DSS XLRM is a Distribution System Simulation (DSS) framework that applies the DMDU (Decision Making Under Deep Uncertainty) paradigm to distribution system planning.

  • X (Uncertainties): Load characteristics, EV adoption, heat pump deployment, DER penetration (PV/storage).

  • L (Levers): Storage control (e.g., peak shaving), demand management programs.

  • R (Relationships): OpenDSS-based network models, EULP building profiles, Smart-DS feeders.

  • M (Metrics): Peak demand, voltage, power/energy flows and derived reliability/quality indicators.

Research Context

  • Audience: Researchers, planners, and utilities (PhD research).

  • Objective: Distribution system planning under deep uncertainty using ensembles on realistic feeders.

  • Datasets: SMART-DS (North Carolina, Texas, California), with circuits with connection issues filtered out.

  • Profiles/Data: NREL EULP (via OEDI, open access).

Capabilities

  • Experimental designs via Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) and Sobol sequences.

  • Seasonal analysis (summer/winter) and multiple profile variants (baseline, demand management, uncontrolled).

  • EV/PV/Storage placement & control, per-feeder time-series simulation (96×15-min timesteps).

1.2 System Architecture

        flowchart TD
    A[DOE: LHS/Sobol] --> B[Scenario Dictionaries<br/>mixes_lhs.json / mixes_sobol.json]
    B --> C[Smart-DS ↔ EULP Matching]
    C --> D[Profile Generation<br/>baseline / DM / uncontrolled]
    D --> E[Reactive Power Prep<br/>kvar ratios]
    E --> F[Circuit Instantiation & Simulation]
    F --> G[Results Aggregation]
    G --> H[Visualization & Analysis<br/>Tableau / notebooks]