Definition
A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object, system or process that mirrors the physical counterpart in real time via sensor data and IoT integrations. The concept was formalised by NASA in the 2000s and popularised through Industry 4.0. In the power sector, digital twins are used to simulate grid load, predict failures in transformers, optimise the operation of wind farms and plan grid investments - typically the distribution network or a substation. For grid companies, digital twins enable advanced capacity planning (what happens if we connect 500 new EV chargers?), operational optimisation and operator training without risk to the real network. Technologically, digital twins are built on GISGeographic Information System - system for collecting, storing and analyzing location-based data - used in network mapping and planning. data, CIMCommon Information Model - IEC standard for semantic modeling of the electricity system, the basis for data exchange between TSOs across Europe. models (IECInternational Electrotechnical Commission - global standards body for electrotechnology and power systems. 61968/61970) and real-time data from SCADASupervisory Control and Data Acquisition - system for real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes./AMIAdvanced Metering Infrastructure - comprehensive system for two-way communication between smart meters and power suppliers' systems..