In an embodiment, the portal is an abstract interface or API which enables non-proprietary (e.g., open source), as well as proprietary, software systems to interface with the virtual microgrid model. By providing an interface which is open to non-proprietary software systems, the market is better able to determine the best data sources and/or methods of using data sources for analysis and prediction. Such a system can provide real-time modeling and analysis of the microgrid, while incorporating real-time data from various commodity markets and incorporating conditions independent of any specific data acquisition system and independent of the presence of AC and DC power network elements. Thus, a process is disclosed which provides real-time modeling, evaluation, commodity market pricing, and optimization of a microgrid across virtually any digital data source and regardless of whether the microgrid comprises AC or DC network elements. In an embodiment, newly learned lessons and standards can be applied, without compromise, to underlying or legacy data acquisition, process control, and/or supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems.