This report describes the engineering of the software tool “smartgrideval,” a web-based platform developed to evaluate smart grid projects through Multi-Criteria Cost-Benefit Analysis (MCA-CBA), as well as the main features and functionalities of the new Version 2.0.

The activity, which is also framed within Annex 3 “Cost Benefits” of the IEA ISGAN initiative, is part of a research stream aimed at deepening the integration of Cost-Benefit Analysis with Multi-Criteria Analysis, in order to propose a methodology for the project evaluation of development alternatives in the field of smart grids that considers non-monetary impacts and external factors. Innovative assessment tools common at the international level will enable the sharing of results and the dissemination of best practices capable of accelerating the ongoing transition in the power system.

The current phase of research has involved engineering Version 1.0 of the software developed previously. The tool aims to support decision-makers in identifying the alternative that can provide the highest level of satisfaction to stakeholders concerning existing economic constraints, while minimizing subjectivity in the decision-making process. Key objectives have included the evolutionary maintenance of the software and the introduction of advanced functionalities. Version 2.0 features improvements in cybersecurity, calculation processes, and the front-end and back-end graphical interface. It also introduces a new evaluation algorithm based on optimization techniques and Decision Theory, which does not require defining weights for the criteria, along with new management functionalities in line with scientific research. In addition to the new algorithm, the most significant activities have included the adoption of the HTTPS protocol, updates to servers and source code, modifications to the architecture to make the calculation module independent, and the implementation of multi-process parallel techniques in the calculation engine. This engineering has also enhanced the user experience and made platform administration more efficient.

The software is accessible at smartgrideval (registration required).

The updated Version 2.0 of the web-based software is now suitable for assessing the management of flexibility resources for the power system, which is expected to take place in future activities.