Towards Interoperability Testing of Smart Energy Systems -- An Overview and Discussion of Possibilities

TL;DR

This paper reviews interoperability testing challenges in smart energy systems, analyzes existing approaches, and discusses potential harmonization and systematic testing methods at the system level.

Contribution

It provides an overview of current interoperability test concepts, identifies gaps at the system level, and proposes directions for harmonizing testing procedures in smart energy systems.

Findings

Existing tests are more developed at component level than system level.

Harmonization of procedures can improve interoperability testing.

Systematic approaches are needed for effective interoperability validation.

Abstract

Interoperability is the key to implementing a wide range of energy systems applications. It involves the seamless cooperation of different methods and components. With smart energy systems, interoperability faces challenges due to integrating differ-ent approaches and technologies. This includes dealing with heterogeneous approaches with various communication proto-cols and data formats. However, it is essential for smart energy systems to carry out thorough interoperability tests. They are usually diverse, and challenging, thus requiring careful consideration of compatibility issues and complex integration scenari-os. Overcoming these challenges requires a systematic approach that includes thorough test planning, rigorous testing, and continuous test monitoring. Although numerous testing approaches exist, most are more developed at the component/device level than at the system level. Consequently, there are few approaches and related facilities to test the interoperability of smart energy approaches and solutions at the system level. This work analyses existing interoperability test concepts, identi-fies enablers and the potential for harmonisation of procedures, and proposes further developments of these approaches.