The desire to reduce harmful emissions from electricity production has led to an increase in the connection of renewable energy generation. Active network management (ANM) is one proposed method for allowing additional network connections without reinforcement of electricity networks. This paper presents a case study exploring the initial layers of a modelling and simulation framework for active networks. A second study is presented which highlights specific areas where current power system simulation techniques may fall short when investigating ANM schemes. Finally, several fundamental research challenges that must be met if ANM schemes are to succeed are identified.