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Version: 1.1.0

Introduction

Energy Workbench Hosting Capacity Module (HCM)​

The Energy Workbench Hosting Capacity Module (HCM) is a scalable, cloud-based power flow simulation system that enables long-term, whole-of-system modelling of electricity distribution networks, spanning both the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) levels. It supports scenario-based forecasting from 1 to 10+ years into the future, allowing electricity distribution network owners and operators to assess the impacts of evolving customer behaviours, Distributed Energy Resources (DER), and network configurations on overall system performance. The HCM helps operators identify voltage and thermal constraints on the network under a range of future energy transition scenarios.

Key Features and Concepts​

Constraint Analysis and Metric Aggregation​

At the core of the HCM is the ability to conduct time-series based scenario modelling of network constraints. Operators can explore and compare scenarios involving various combinations of PV, EV, and BESS adoption, and assess:

  • When constraints will first emerge
  • How long they will persist over time
  • What patterns (daily, seasonal) those constraints follow

To enable meaningful insights without the need to sort through terabytes of raw data tables, the HCM can output structured, aggregated metrics that highlight network risks at meaningful levels of resolution.

We call the aggregation levels of the network measurement zones, and they can be set up at different levels of granularity depending on the need. Measurement zones never overlap, ensuring no double-counting.

For more details of how measurement zones work and how they can be used, see Measurement Zones.

The Base Year Model​

Scenario forecasting begins with a Base Year, which is built from existing historical time-series smart meter data. This allows every energy consumer on the network to be individually represented in the model, creating a high-fidelity starting point. This base year data is loaded once and then scaled by the forecast demand rates for each scenario year, providing a highly efficient method for constructing future scenarios. The specific forecast EV, PV, and BESS devices are then connected to this scaled network model to complete the scenario.

Integration with the Energy Workbench Platform​

The HCM operates within the Energy Workbench platform, which is underpinned by a central, shared Common Information Model (CIM). This ensures that all modules, whether for long-range planning, detailed design, or simulation, are aligned to a single, authoritative network dataset.

The platform's primary role is to provide common network data model services, establishing a single source of truth for network data. Consequently, whether performing high-level analysis in the HCM or generating models for detailed engineering in tools like SINCAL, OpenDSS, and PowerFactory, all modules work from the same aligned and centrally managed network dataset.