Keywords
power systems
power electronics
digital twins
artificial intelligence
renewable energy systems
Data Availability Statement
No new data were generated or analyzed in this study. Data sharing is not applicable to this article.
How to Cite
Abstract
The evolution of digital tools in electrical engineering has significantly transformed the way electrical systems are modeled, analyzed, designed, and optimized. The development of specialized software has promoted a methodological shift from predominantly manual procedures toward more accurate, dynamic, and efficient processes based on simulation, modeling, analysis, and control. This article presents a narrative review of the main simulation tools used in electrical engineering, with emphasis on their historical evolution, technical capabilities, applications, advantages, limitations, and emerging trends. The review examines representative software used in academic and industrial contexts, including MATLAB and Simulink, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSIM, PSpice, Multisim, AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, PVsyst, HOMER Pro, and LabVIEW. In addition, the study discusses the influence of artificial intelligence, digital twins, cyber-physical systems, cloud-based simulation, IoT integration, and interoperable platforms on the future development of electrical simulation environments. The findings show that simulation software has become an essential component of contemporary electrical engineering, supporting system behavior prediction, risk reduction, design optimization, renewable energy integration, smart grid development, and decision-making in increasingly complex energy systems. The study concludes that these tools are not only relevant for improving engineering practice and education, but also fundamental for addressing current challenges related to sustainability, energy decentralization, and the transition toward renewable technologies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Santiago Aguaguiña-Alvear, Eugenio Santiago Punina (Author)