Hands-On Laboratory Course for Future Power System Experts

This paper describes the development of a modern power system laboratory within a Bologna Declaration compliant curriculum at the Department of Energy and Power Systems, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb. The paper describes laboratory components and provides insight into the experiments that students are required to perform. The laboratory course is divided into three major components: power system simulations, computer simulations and high voltage. Power system simulations are performed on a miniature real-world power system that can be synchronized to the actual power system. Computer simulations are performed both on commercially available software solutions commonly used by power utilities and consulting companies, and on software tools developed at the Department of Energy and Power Systems. High voltage exercises are performed in the High Voltage Laboratory, where students are familiarized with high voltage phenomena. Results of student questionnaires collected over the previous four years are analyzed. This feedback, together with industry experts' observations and suggestions, provides the basis for improvements that are constantly introduced.