Introduction

“Smart grid” generally refers to a class of technology people are using to bring utility electricity delivery systems into the 21st century, using computer-based remote control and automation [1]. In order to assess the feasibility of a smart grid system, Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) is generally required. Smart Grid BCA is also listed as the third Annex of ISGAN (International Energy Agency (IEA) Implementing Agreement for a Co-operative Programme on Smart Grids) [2]. Energy Modeling Lab has been working closely with the ISGAN team, especially the Annex 3, to develop a BCA Toolkit to be used by ISGAN country members’ smart grid projects. As a basis of its software, EML examines the Smart Grid Computational Tool (SGCT) developed by US DOE [3], which utilizes Ms. Excel’s VBA (Visual Basic Applications).

The first phase of the Smart Grid BCA Toolkit development is to re-engineer the DOE’s SGCT. Moving on from the Ms. Excel format, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) is developed so that the toolkit can be used as a type of stand-alone program. The newly developed software is currently available on the EML website for a wider audience to use. Before downloading the program, please check out the reports and manuals associated with it.

Reports and Manuals

Here is the list of reports and manuals of the software:

• Final Report (3rd Year) of Annex 3: Benefit and Cost Analysis and Toolkit
• Final Report (2nd Year) of Annex 3: Benefit and Cost Analysis and Toolkit
• Final Report (1st Year) of Annex 3: Benefit and Cost Analysis and Toolkit
• Software Manual for Smart Grid BCA Toolkit Revised by EML

Download Page

The software can be downloaded by clicking this link.

Source:
[1] http://energy.gov/oe/services/technology-development/smart-grid
[2] http://www.iea-isgan.org/?c=2/27
[3] https://www.smartgrid.gov/document/smart_grid_computational_tool_sgct_overview