Open-Source Dynamic Network Model

The ML/AI Playground for Power Systems Engineers

Sisyphean Power & Light (SP&L) is a fully synthetic distribution utility—48,000 customers, 12 feeders, 5 years of operational history—purpose-built for machine learning experimentation, algorithm development, and power systems research.

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SP&L at a Glance

A complete synthetic utility dataset—realistic enough to train production models, open enough to share your work.

48K

Customers across residential, commercial & industrial classes

12

Distribution feeders with realistic topology & loading

5 yr

Operational history: outages, load, weather & DER generation

3,200+

Outage events with cause codes, duration & crew response

14%

DER penetration with solar, storage & EV charging profiles

OpenDSS

Power flow models for every feeder—ready to simulate

ML/AI Playground

Guided notebooks and use cases that turn SP&L data into working ML models. From beginner-friendly walkthroughs to advanced production patterns.

01

Outage Prediction

Train gradient-boosted and neural network models on 5 years of outage history, weather, and asset data to predict equipment failures before they happen.

02

Load Forecasting

Build short-term and day-ahead load forecasting models using AMI interval data, weather variables, and calendar features across all 12 SP&L feeders.

03

Hosting Capacity Analysis

Use OpenDSS power flow models to calculate DER hosting capacity, identify voltage and thermal constraints, and plan interconnection upgrades.

04

Predictive Maintenance

Develop asset health scoring models using equipment age, loading history, weather exposure, and failure records to prioritize capital replacements.

Why "Sisyphean"?

In the power sector, the word fits. The grid will never be "done." Load patterns shift. New distributed resources emerge. Regulations evolve. Infrastructure ages even as it's upgraded. Every modernization cycle solves today's problems and reveals tomorrow's—the boulder always rolls back.

But in Albert Camus's reinterpretation of the myth, Sisyphus finds meaning not in reaching the summit, but in the climb itself. We apply this philosophy to the energy transition: excellence comes from sustained, iterative improvement—not silver bullets.

"The struggle itself toward the heights is enough to fill a man's heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy." — Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus

What We Do

We help utilities navigate the complexities of grid modernization through persistent, methodical effort.

01

Grid Modernization

ADMS, DERMS, distribution automation, grid edge technologies, smart inverters, and voltage optimization. We guide utilities through phased modernization that reduces risk and builds organizational capability.

02

DER Integration

Hosting capacity analysis, interconnection screening, distribution planning, and grid flexibility services. We help utilities integrate distributed resources while maintaining reliability.

03

Integrated Resource Planning

IRP, distribution system planning, load forecasting, scenario development, and portfolio optimization. We build robust planning processes that prepare for multiple futures.

04

Energy Transition Strategy

Decarbonization pathways, electrification planning, beneficial electrification, rate design, and regulatory strategy. We help utilities chart sustainable paths through the energy transition.

The Sisyphean Approach

Grid modernization requires a different kind of consultancy—one that values sustainable change over flashy deliverables.

Iterate, Don't Overhaul

We favor phased, iterative approaches over risky "rip and replace" strategies. Pilot, learn, refine, scale.

Build Capability

We don't just deliver reports—we transfer expertise, build processes, and empower your team to keep improving.

Plan for Uncertainty

We embrace complexity through scenario-based planning that stress-tests portfolios across diverse futures.

Ready to Start Building?

Explore Sisyphean Power & Light, open a playground notebook, or get in touch about early access.

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