OptiFlex.py – An open-source tool for electricity distribution planning with local flexibility

The increasing complexity of modern electricity distribution networks calls for planning tools capable of jointly assessing conventional grid reinforcements and flexibility-based solutions. This paper presents OptiFlex.py, an open-source tool for distribution network planning that compares flexibility options of different nature with standard reinforcement measures within a unified optimization framework. The procedure is modular and scalable to heterogeneous and complex scenario sets, including the representation of contingency conditions. The adopted optimization model is described and its potential is demonstrated through an illustrative case study on a benchmark distribution network.