Energy systems are complex and so software is needed to perform analysis on them. Many of the available software available are propriety and require a license and annual subscriptions. This could be very expensive and above the budgets of small organizations and individuals.

However, there are free and/or open-source alternatives. These come in various forms such as executables, libraries for structured computer languages, and plugins.

Below is an attempt to list these alternatives.

HOME Free and Open-Source Energy-Analysis Software and Libraries
Software/Library Description Capabilities
Python Power System Analysis (PyPSA) A Python-based, open-source software package for simulating and optimizing power and energy systems.
  • Power Flow (PF)
  • Linear Optimal Power Flow (OPF)
  • Transport Model
  • Security Constraint Linear OPF
  • Multi-Period Optimisation
  • Unit Commitment
  • Investment Optimisation
  • Other Energy Sectors
PandaPower A Python-based, open-source toolkit for power system modelling, analysis, and optimization. It provides a high-level, Pythonic interface to construct electrical networks, run analyses, and study operational scenarios.
  • Power Flow (PF)
  • Linear Optimal Power Flow (OPF)
  • NonLinear OPF
  • Transport Model
  • Controller simulation
  • Time-series
  • State estimation
  • Short-circuit calculations
  • Topological graph searches
PVLib A comprehensive Python library which is resource for engineers, researchers, and analysts engaged in simulating the complex behavior of PV energy systems.
  • Energy yield calculation
  • Environmental effects (shading, soiling, reflections)
  • Irradiance handling (irradiance decomposition and transposition)
  • Specialized systems (bifacial modeling, and agrivoltaics and floating PV system modeling)
  • Electrical performance modeling (I-V modeling, array-dependent resistance (ADR) modeling, and solar tracking)
WindPowerLib An open-source python library used for the modelling and analysis of the power and energy output of single and multiple (wind farms) wind turbines.
  • Single Turbine Energy yield calculation
  • Multiple Turbine Energy yield calculation
Open-Source Distribution System Simulator (OpenDSS) A comprehensive electrical system simulation tool for electric utility distribution systems.
  • Power Flow
  • Fault Studies
  • Harmonic Flow Studies
  • Dynamic Analysis
  • Load Parametric Variation
  • Geomagnetically Induced Current (GIC) Analysis