National-scale power grid modelling and space weather application with open-source data

Severe geomagnetic storms can induce geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) in infrastructures like power grids, leading to transformer overheating, voltage instability, and power outages. With the rapid expansion and large-scale deployment of these systems worldwide, space weather effects have become an increasing concern. To address the urgent need to assess the impacts of space weather, a systematic modelling framework is essential. However, the absence of complete grid data has hindered the development of a GICs model during geomagnetic storms. This study proposes a systematic GICs modeling methodology that involves reconstructing power grid topology using open-source geographic data, calculating induced electric fields from magnetic disturbances, and analyzing GICs at substation nodes and transmission lines. Firstly, we accurately reconstruct the UK power grid. The high-resolution reconstructed grid model establishes a solid foundation for calculating the electromagnetic properties of key nodes and transmission lines. Next, we use geomagnetic field data from observatories during geomagnetic storms to perform geomagnetic field interpolation and induced electric field modeling, followed by the computation of GICs at substations within the grid. The model is further applied to simulate the geoelectric fields in Japan, demonstrating high accuracy. Additionally, GIC analysis during magnetic storms is conducted for a specific region in China, revealing that even low-latitude areas of China's power grid can be significantly affected by strong magnetic storms. This study establishes a systematic model that takes geomagnetic field data as input and outputs GICs at substation nodes, providing a new tool for GICs modelling induced by geomagnetic storms. It holds significant implications for assessing and managing the operational security of power grids during geomagnetic storms.