Development, applications and benefits of the network digital twin

Abstract

The network digital twin is the must-have technology ofany advanced DSO1.One of the main challenges for DSOs is deploying the mostefficient and effective solutions for operation andmaintenance of electricity network and infrastructures.New technologies that are flourishing in the market showhigh potential for the electricity industry, too. Examplesare cloud and edge-computing, artificial intelligence (AI)with machine learning, IoT2 sensors, wearables,augmented and virtual reality, 3D modelling, LIDAR3,drones and robotics, advanced simulation and modellingsoftware. Their adoption by DSOs and integration withexisting systems (such as GIS4, AMI5, ADMS6) offer newinnovative approaches to distribution systems operation,epitomized by the network digital twin.This paper describes how existing and new technologiescombine to realize the network digital twin, its relevantapplications and benefits. Several practical examples andlessons learned from proof of concepts, pilots andinnovation projects carried out with start-ups, technologyproviders and data scientists are illustrated.