Why is open source important?

Alliander values transparency, innovation, and collaboration highly. It is also important for Alliander to be mindful of the costs associated with digitalization and its role in society. That is why Alliander not only contributes to open source projects but also makes its own projects available as open source. We collaborate with multiple parties, and it is evident that there is mutual benefit from sharing each other’s knowledge and expertise.

Open Source Program Office

The coordination and facilitation of an ecosystem that enables the use and creation of open source software, and even encourages it, have been entrusted to our Open Source Program Office (OSPO). The OSPO serves as the knowledge hub for open source within Alliander, providing advice and assistance to teams with their inquiries. Additionally, the OSPO organizes activities aimed at expanding the understanding of open source, such as webinars and hackathons. When necessary, the OSPO assists teams in establishing an open source community. By building an open source ecosystem, we contribute to the future digital and sustainable energy system.

Alliander and open source

Alliander aims to provide customers with timely solutions by 2030, contributing to the accelerated development and sustainability of the Netherlands. In this pursuit, digitalization is of crucial importance. Digitalization cannot exist without open source software. Alliander not only uses open source software but also actively contributes to its development and makes internal software available as open source where it is of strategic value. What exactly does open source entail?

What is open source?

Open source software is characterized by a source code that is freely available, accessible, and adaptable for everyone. In open source projects, developers from various companies collaborate to work on a software project together. This not only promotes the exchange of knowledge and the sharing of costs, but it also stimulates innovation and acceleration. For Alliander, participating in open source projects represents a form of co-creation and collaboration with partners.

Alliander’s open source approach

When working with open source software, there are various approaches available. One option is to simply use existing open source software without making any contributions. Another, more active approach involves using open source software while simultaneously applying one’s own knowledge and skills to contribute to the further development of this open source software. Additionally, one can initiate an open source software project by open-sourcing internal software.

The open source vision & strategy describes how Alliander applies open source working and where it is implemented. Open source is not only used; Alliander also actively contributes to various open source projects.

Furthermore, Alliander has made some of its internal projects available as open source. This allows others to not only use this software but also contribute to it.

By investing in an open source ecosystem, Alliander contributes to the development of relevant software. This software helps Alliander provide timely and efficient solutions to its customers by 2030 at the latest, a significant step towards the sustainability of the Netherlands.

Collaboration

We enjoy working with other parties on projects that advance us both. You can read more about this below, or contact us via OSPO@alliander.com.

Power Grid Model example

One open source project that Alliander actively uses and maintains is the Power Grid Model. Alliander has developed the Power Grid Model to create conceptual representations and simulations of electrical power grids. It enables in-depth studies and analysis of the electrical power grid’s behaviour and performance. This comprehensive model incorporates essential factors such as power generation capacity, electrical losses, voltage levels, power flows, and system stability.

The Power Grid Model finds applications in various areas, including grid planning, expansion, reliability, and congestion studies. Additionally, it can also help in analyzing the impact of renewable energy integration, assessing the effects of disturbances or faults, and developing strategies for grid control and optimization. Notably, the Power Grid Model outperforms similar tools in terms of its performance capabilities.

More about open source

Why is open source important?

Alliander values transparency, innovation, and collaboration highly. It is also important for Alliander to be mindful of the costs associated with digitalization and its role in society.

That is why Alliander not only contributes to open source projects but also makes its own projects available as open source.

We collaborate with multiple parties, and it is evident that there is mutual benefit from sharing each other’s knowledge and expertise.
Open Source Program Office

The coordination and facilitation of an ecosystem that enables the use and creation of open source software, and even encourages it, have been entrusted to our Open Source Program Office (OSPO).

The OSPO serves as the knowledge hub for open source within Alliander, providing advice and assistance to teams with their inquiries. Additionally, the OSPO organizes activities aimed at expanding the understanding of open source, such as webinars and hackathons. When necessary, the OSPO assists teams in establishing an open source community.

By building an open source ecosystem, we contribute to the future digital and sustainable energy system.

Learn more about the projects in which we contribute to open source

Our open source projects