Understanding NERC MOD-033-1 — Steady-State and Dynamic System Model Validation

Introduction

As modern power systems become increasingly complex—with renewable energy integration, advanced control systems, and new reliability standards—the need for precise and reliable Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) Studies has never been greater. 

This article explores the importance of EMT studies, their applications, and how KEENTEL’s expertise and tools are shaping the future of grid reliability, renewable integration, and power system resilience.

Why EMT Studies Are Essential

EMT studies focus on analyzing the dynamic electrical behavior of power systems under fast, transient conditions. Unlike steady-state analysis, EMT simulations capture rapid events such as lightning strikes, switching surges, and inverter-based resource interactions. These studies ensure:

• Equipment protection against over-voltages and surges.
• Grid stability under renewable penetration.
• Compliance with grid codes and international standards.
• Resilience during black start and emergency restoration events.
  

Learn about: Power system modeling services

Applicability

MOD-033-1 applies to:

• Planning Coordinators (responsible for overseeing planning areas),
• Reliability Coordinators, and
• Transmission Operators.

These entities must collaborate to ensure the accuracy of power flow and dynamics models across interconnected transmission systems mod-033-1.

Key Capabilities of KEENTEL in EMT Studies

KEENTEL offers a comprehensive range of EMT study services

• Insulation Coordination – Evaluating switching, lightning, and temporary over-voltages.
• Breaker Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) – Ensuring circuit breakers withstand fast recovery stresses.
• Very Fast Transients (VFT) – Studying switching surges in Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS).
• Custom Model Development – Tailoring simulations to specific client needs.
• Power Quality Studies – Including harmonics, flicker, and capacitor switching.
• Renewable Integration – Assessing solar and wind interconnection feasibility.
• Advanced Controls – Analyzing sub-synchronous resonance and HVDC/FACTS device interactions.
• System Restoration – Validating black start and fast bus transfer procedures.
• Training – Introductory to advanced PSCAD courses for engineers worldwide.
  

Real-World Applications: Case Studies

1. TRV and Insulation Coordination Studies

KEENTEL assessed transformer and equipment exposure to severe over-voltages, verifying protection adequacy and improving reliability.

2. Harmonic Resonance in a 100 MW Solar Plant (Texas, USA)

By identifying resonance risks caused by inverter-grid interactions, KEENTEL helped ensure seamless renewable integration without compromising power quality.

3. Black Start Studies (Australia’s NEM)

In collaboration with operators, KEENTEL validated System Restart Ancillary Services (SRAS) using EMT-based black start simulations, leading to optimized system restoration and reduced service requirements.

4. Sub-Synchronous Control Interaction (SSCI) in a 160 MW Solar Plant

KEENTEL applied advanced screening to identify potential inverter instabilities under sub-synchronous frequencies, ensuring grid code compliance.

5. Wind Integration for 400 MW Project

Through PSCAD simulations, KEENTEL recommended optimized control settings that allowed the wind farm to ride through faults and meet performance standards

Keentel’s Engagement Process

Keentel supports clients at every stage of project development, as outlined in the three-phase workflow (page 1 diagram):

1. Stage 1 – Bid/Tender Evaluation & Data Preparation.
2. Stage 2 – Model Testing, Validation & Simulation Runs.
3. Stage 3 – Results Analysis, Recommendations & Implementation Plans.

This structured approach ensures transparent decision-making, practical solutions, and smooth project execution.

Conclusions

In today’s rapidly evolving power sector, EMT studies are not just optional—they are critical for safe, reliable, and future-ready power systems. KEENTEL’s decades of experience, coupled with PSCAD/EMTDC expertise, makes them a trusted partner for utilities, developers, and system operators worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions – EMT Analysis

EMT Analysis in the Context of MOD-033-1

By combining traditional validation methods with advanced EMT analysis, stakeholders gain a clearer understanding of how their systems perform under both normal and extreme conditions. This not only ensures regulatory compliance but also reflects the true complexity of modern grid operations.

With decades of experience and expertise in PSCAD™/EMTDC™, KEENTEL Engineering equips clients with the modeling and validation support needed to future-proof transmission planning, protect assets, and ensure reliable integration of renewable energy resources.

👉 Explore how our Power System Studies and NERC Compliance Services support advanced EMT analysis.