WebNet use
webNetUse, developed by PowerAnser Labs (PAL), is an advanced web-based tool for transmission system usage cost and loss allocation, designed to support regulators, system operators, and utilities in implementing Point of Connection (PoC) tariffs and fair loss sharing. Delivered via PAL’s webDNA SaaS platform, webNetUse leverages a hybrid methodology combining Average Participation (AP) and Marginal Participation (MP) methods to allocate costs and losses based on actual network usage. The tool integrates seamlessly with industry-standard data formats, offers comprehensive reporting and scenario analysis, and ensures full compliance with Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) guidelines. Its user-friendly interface and expert support make it a preferred solution for transparent and efficient transmission cost management.
Accurate and transparent allocation of transmission system costs and losses is vital for the financial health and fairness of the electricity market. Conventional approaches are often static, opaque, and resource-intensive, making it difficult for stakeholders to understand and validate cost and loss allocation. With regulatory mandates for usage-based PoC tariffs and increasing network complexity, there is a pressing need for an automated, flexible, and scalable solution that can handle large-scale, real-world power system models.
- Web-Based SaaS Model: No local installation required; users access the tool securely via the web, with PAL managing all backend infrastructure and updates.
- Hybrid Allocation Methodology: Configurable use of AP for tracing physical power paths and dispersed slack bus selection, and MP for marginal flow and loss computations.
- Comprehensive Reporting & Visualization: Generates detailed and summary reports, bar and pie charts, and budget balance sheets; supports region-wise and entity-wise allocation views.
- Scenario Management: Analyze and compare multiple scenarios for robust decision support.
- Data Integration: Import/export capabilities with Excel and PTI-PSS/E; supports system parameter validation and network data reports.
- Security & Support: Role-based access, audit trails, and on-demand expert consultation.
webNetUse is implemented as a cloud-hosted web application on PAL’s proprietary webDNA platform, designed for scalability and security. It integrates with PAL’s webLFA load flow tool for network analysis and uses object-oriented modeling based on AC load flow methodology. The system supports both analytical and numerical perturbation methods for marginal flow computations and includes specialized modules for HVDC line cost allocation. The intuitive graphical user interface features single-line diagrams, auto-layout, color coding, and bird’s eye views, making complex network analysis accessible and actionable for users.
webNetUse enhances transparency and fairness in the allocation of transmission costs and losses, supporting regulatory compliance and efficient grid operation. By enabling accurate, usage-based cost recovery, it helps maintain grid financial health, encourages responsible usage, and supports the broader goals of grid modernization and sustainable energy transition.
- Transmission utilities for PoC tariff and loss allocation
- System operators and regulatory bodies for compliance and reporting
- Power system planners and consultants for infrastructure cost management
- Academic and research institutions for power system studies