Eversource Energy, New England’s largest energy utility, is leveraging cutting-edge probabilistic load flow (PLF) technology from MathWorks, a global leader in mathematical computing software, to modernize its system planning processes. This collaboration aims to address the evolving challenges of the energy transition-driven by the growing adoption of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and distributed solar-by incorporating advanced data modeling and automation into electric distribution planning.
As the grid becomes more dynamic with the integration of renewable energy sources, utilities face increasing uncertainty in demand and supply patterns. To stay ahead, Eversource has developed a robust PLF-based system that enables the company to simulate, evaluate, and prioritize millions of grid scenarios based on likelihood and risk. This allows for smarter, more resilient infrastructure planning to support a cleaner energy future.
The shift toward renewable energy generation is accelerating. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the country is expected to add 26 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2025 and another 22 GW in 2026. Recognizing that traditional scenario-based modeling no longer meets the demands of this new landscape, Eversource adopted PLF automation as a core component of its planning strategy. The new system empowers the utility to efficiently simulate high volumes of potential operating conditions, enhancing grid reliability and optimizing investment in data analytics and infrastructure upgrades.
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“The growing needs in modern system planning present both a challenge and an opportunity,” said Tony Lennon, Simscape Products Market Manager at MathWorks. “Using MATLAB® and MathWorks consulting services, Eversource optimized their infrastructure investments and proactively addressed potential issues, ensuring a stable and efficient energy supply for their customers.”
MATLAB, MathWorks’ flagship platform for technical computing, served as the foundation for Eversource’s PLF implementation. Its capabilities in parallel processing enabled the utility to run large-scale simulations by distributing computational tasks across multi-core CPUs and GPUs. Integration with DNV’s Synergi Electric Solver was achieved through MATLAB’s ActiveX server, eliminating the need for additional programming environments and streamlining the workflow.
The system also incorporates Monte Carlo simulations, a critical method in probabilistic analysis, allowing Eversource to model thousands of possible grid conditions using random sampling from defined probability distributions. Additionally, MATLAB’s advanced data visualization tools helped translate complex simulation data into actionable insights—enabling the utility to visually assess grid performance, identify potential risks, and prioritize investments in system upgrades.
“With the unprecedented energy transition currently taking place in New England, distribution system planning is more complex than ever before and critical to ensuring safe, reliable service for our customers,” said John Kreso, Senior Engineer, Advanced Forecasting and Modeling at Eversource. “Through our new PLF solution, we are reducing simulation time by 95%, assessing grid reliability, and making data-driven decisions – playing an important role in our ability to optimize investments in infrastructure upgrades and ensure we can proactively address potential issues.”