Magnus Energy developed an interactive, gamified simulation for 10–30 participants to illustrate TSO–DSO–FSP coordination and the differing perspectives and interests of key stakeholders.​ The game involves eight Flexibility Service Provider (FSP) groups and two DSO groups, each operating a medium-voltage network. In each round, ​ 

• FSPs submit bids, ​ 

• DSOs approve feasible bid combinations, and​ 

• the TSO - acting as moderator - executes the dispatch algorithm. ​ 

 Distribution network states with and without flexibility activation are calculated online using load-flow simulations and visualised to highlight voltage or current limit violations. 

The game provides an interactive setup to learn about TSO-DSO-FSP coordination in flexibility markets for electricity, which triggers discussion among participants around: 

• roles, expectations, and challenges from the different perspectives (TSO, DSO, FSP), 

• complexities FSPs encounter in operating their assets, 

• impact of asset location on voltage limit violation risk, 

• need for systematic consideration of distribution network constraints in the coordination process,  

• impact of network structure on the ability to effectively utilise flexibility,​ 

• importance of transparency to avoid market power and non-discriminatory market access, 

• and more… 

The growing penetration of RES and DER requires the coordinated use of flexibility sources distributed across transmission and distribution levels. This coordination is technically complex and involves multiple stakeholders - flexibility service providers (FSPs), DSOs, and the TSO - each with different perspectives and requirements.  

Understanding both the impact of flexibility activations on the distribution network state and its constraints, and the distinct stakeholder viewpoints remains a key challenge for network operators and market players.

By simulating real-world TSO–DSO–FSP coordination, this interactive game helps teams to grasp the technical, market, and stakeholder dimensions of flexibility management. It makes complex flexibility coordination tangible and fosters an engaging environment for collaborative problem-solving.

Advanced level 

For organisations, that want to build practical know-how on TSO–DSO–FSP coordination in flexibility markets, strengthen cross-functional collaboration, and get ahead of the curve on distributed flexibility.

For participants, who already understand electricity systems and flexibility markets, this game turns theory into practice, challenging them to apply their expertise in realistic coordination and decision-making scenarios. 

The interactive game is organised on-site and can be hosted either at Magnus Energy’s premises or at your own location. The standard programme takes around 2,5 hours, including a general introduction, the game itself, and a structured debrief to capture key insights and lessons learned.  

At request, the session can be complemented with dedicated trainings on flexibility and TSO-DSO-FSP coordination, offered on-site or online to ensure all participants are up to speed, even if not everyone is familiar with flexibility markets yet.

Participants receive tailored training material that supports both the game and their learning afterwards. In the base set-up, each participant gets a concise handout during the session and a follow-up email summarising the main outcomes and key insights.  

 When the game is complemented with on-site or online trainings, participants also receive the full presentation used in the training. 

The Magnus Energy Academy offers online, on-site and blended training courses for groups of six or more participants, with tailor-made options available to meet specific training needs. For further alignment and pricing details, please feel free to contact us at academy@magnusenergy.com