Case Study: Yokohama National University achieves faster model development and standardized power-system benchmarking with MathWorks (MATLAB & Simulink)

Institute of Electrical Engineers Develops Benchmark Model for Electrical Supply System Simulation

Yokohama National University, working within the Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan committee, faced the challenge of creating a standardized platform so more than 20 organizations across Japan could design, share, and objectively compare power‑system controllers. To meet a tight two‑year timeline and ensure easy model creation and exchange, the team selected MathWorks' MATLAB and Simulink (with Control System Toolbox) as the development environment.

Using MathWorks' tools the committee developed the AGC30 benchmark model—integrating 24‑hour time‑series solar and wind data, models of conventional generators, and two control modules (load frequency control and economic load dispatch)—to run extensive simulations and analyses. The MathWorks‑based solution significantly shortened model development time, enabled objective, quantitative evaluation of controllers, and supported the creation of an improved inertial‑response frequency control; the AGC30 package was then distributed for wider research use.

Yokohama National University

Takao Tsuji

Associate Professor