Topological modelling of gas networks for co-simulation applications in multi-energy systems

This paper focuses on the modelling and simulation of gas networks to be used in an integrated multi-carrier energy scenario. A topological approach is followed, where a simplified graph-based description of the gas network is adopted and a systematic analysis of the metrics of three real test cases is carried out with the aim of discovering relevant network features. The governing equations of the basic building blocks such as pipelines, compressors and pressure reduction stations are readily derived under the assumptions of steady-state operation and isothermal behaviour, allowing a good matching between model compactness and accuracy. In addition, a circuit-based interpretation of model equations and well-established tools for circuit analysis are used. The obtained results proved that the proposed approach offers a feasible tool for gas networks, which can be readily integrated in a co-simulation framework.