GridAssist - Assistenzsysteme für eine optimierte automatisierte Systemführung in Verteilnetzen

Third party funded individual grant


Start date : 01.12.2024

End date : 30.11.2027


Project details

Short description

TP3: Automated Optimal System Management in MS/HS Networks & Network Restoration

AP 3.1: Automated Bottleneck and Fault Management Based on Machine Learning Methods

AP 3.2: Stable Grid and Supply Restoration


TP5: Competence Team for Interfaces and Databases

AP 5.1: Creation of a Knowledge Database for Heterogeneous Power Grid Data Sources

Automated Grid Management and Restoration through AI and Data Integration

The increasing complexity and volatility of modern power grids necessitate intelligent, automated systems for optimal operation and rapid restoration. In TP3, we develop AI-driven solutions for automated bottleneck and fault management (AP 3.1) as well as stable and systematic grid restoration (AP 3.2) in medium- and high-voltage (MS/HS) networks. These systems leverage machine learning techniques—ranging from supervised and unsupervised learning to reinforcement learning—with a hybrid training approach incorporating domain knowledge via Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and Known-Operator Learning. This ensures reliable, explainable decision-making in real-time operations and minimizes data requirements in safety-critical environments.

In bottleneck management, predictive and event-triggered AI models autonomously suggest topology adjustments and flexibility deployment, factoring in a wide range of grid constraints and operational targets. Fault management employs multi-source data analysis for real-time fault detection, location, isolation, and resupply, utilizing both existing sensors and proposed novel measurements. For restoration, a dedicated assistance system is developed using a two-stage training process: supervised learning of standardized grid restoration procedures followed by reinforcement learning in a high-fidelity simulation environment. A single-agent model competes across simulation instances to evolve optimized strategies for power system recovery.


To support these applications, TP5 (AP 5.1) establishes a unified graph-based knowledge database for integrating heterogeneous data sources—from GIS, SCADA, and metering systems—into a cohesive representation. This structure enables complex system queries and machine-readable context for AI models, forming the backbone of advanced operational analytics.

The entire system architecture and algorithms are tested in AP 6.3 through a hybrid field test utilizing real-time simulation with OPAL-RT and live grid snapshots from Lechwerke’s control center. Assistance systems interface with the simulation via standard protocols, ensuring vendor-independent implementation and practical transferability. Experienced grid operators validate the system in realistic operational conditions, ensuring alignment with the requirements of future grid operations and energy transition goals.

Scientific Abstract

TP3: Automated Optimal System Management in MS/HS Networks & Network Restoration

AP 3.1: Automated Bottleneck and Fault Management Based on Machine Learning Methods

AP 3.2: Stable Grid and Supply Restoration


TP5: Competence Team for Interfaces and Databases

AP 5.1: Creation of a Knowledge Database for Heterogeneous Power Grid Data Sources

Automated Grid Management and Restoration through AI and Data Integration

The increasing complexity and volatility of modern power grids necessitate intelligent, automated systems for optimal operation and rapid restoration. In TP3, we develop AI-driven solutions for automated bottleneck and fault management (AP 3.1) as well as stable and systematic grid restoration (AP 3.2) in medium- and high-voltage (MS/HS) networks. These systems leverage machine learning techniques—ranging from supervised and unsupervised learning to reinforcement learning—with a hybrid training approach incorporating domain knowledge via Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and Known-Operator Learning. This ensures reliable, explainable decision-making in real-time operations and minimizes data requirements in safety-critical environments.

In bottleneck management, predictive and event-triggered AI models autonomously suggest topology adjustments and flexibility deployment, factoring in a wide range of grid constraints and operational targets. Fault management employs multi-source data analysis for real-time fault detection, location, isolation, and resupply, utilizing both existing sensors and proposed novel measurements. For restoration, a dedicated assistance system is developed using a two-stage training process: supervised learning of standardized grid restoration procedures followed by reinforcement learning in a high-fidelity simulation environment. A single-agent model competes across simulation instances to evolve optimized strategies for power system recovery.


To support these applications, TP5 (AP 5.1) establishes a unified graph-based knowledge database for integrating heterogeneous data sources—from GIS, SCADA, and metering systems—into a cohesive representation. This structure enables complex system queries and machine-readable context for AI models, forming the backbone of advanced operational analytics.

The entire system architecture and algorithms are tested in AP 6.3 through a hybrid field test utilizing real-time simulation with OPAL-RT and live grid snapshots from Lechwerke’s control center. Assistance systems interface with the simulation via standard protocols, ensuring vendor-independent implementation and practical transferability. Experienced grid operators validate the system in realistic operational conditions, ensuring alignment with the requirements of future grid operations and energy transition goals.

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