Flexible virtual replication of OT networks in energy systems

Abstract

The ongoing digitization of energy networks is transforming traditional grid infrastructure and increasingly relies on standards such as IEC 61850 to enable interoperable and automated system operation. This opens new opportunities for the application of virtualization in operational technology (OT) networks which are used to manage and control primary and secondary equipment in electrical energy supply systems. By decoupling software functions from dedicated hardware, virtualization enhances the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency of critical infrastructure management. In this paper, we propose a framework for the flexible virtual replication of OT networks to leverage these advantages. We introduce a use-case-independent process model that defines a standardized workflow for setting up and configuring the virtualized system. The proposed approach utilizes a Substation Configuration Description (SCD) file and container images with station-function code as primary inputs. To demonstrate the model’s versatility, it is validated through three use cases that benefit from virtualization during the planning, implementation, and testing phases. Finally, specific test cases are evaluated for each use case, and a state-machine-based validation approach to ensure functional integrity is proposed.