New Challenges in the Design of Microgrid Systems: Communication Networks, Cyberattacks, and Resilience

Abstract

Microgrids (MGs), referred to as the next-generation power systems, are receiving considerable attention from both industry and academia. Integrated with distributed energy resources (DERs), energy storage system and a variety of loads, microgrid functions as a localized power grid which can be operated independently or connected to utility grids. With the rapid development of technology in communication networks, the framework of MGs tends to be more distributed, intelligent and tightly integrated with networks. Applications of MGs can be found on the Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 4.0, Smart Cities, etc.However, due to the strong dependence on networks, the microgrid is more vulnerable to security threats. A malicious attacker can apply some kinds of attacks to the MG system, compromise the MG control and lead to disruptive events in the society. Such cases are posing new challenges to the design of the MG systems. Currently, the MGs are generally designed with technologies that can protect against communication delays or data dropouts and potential component failures during operations. However, due to the development of various intelligent attacks, traditional technologies behave very limitedly to secure the MGs. It is therefore essential to reexamine the existing techniques from the perspective of both cyber-layer and physical layer. Communication NetworkThe microgrid is a robust platform that can help to build distributed electric power systems with high efficiency, sustainability, flexibility, intelligence. Due to the high penetration of renewable energy, microgrid usually works as a fully controllable unit. With the broad access to a variety of energy sources and loads, the distributed microgrid should possess the following features:Efficient: Persistent low energy use minimize demand on grid resources and infrastructure.Connected: Two-way communication with flexible technologies, the grid, and occupants.Intelligent: Analytics supported by sensors and controls co-optimize efficiently, flexibility, and occupant preferences.Flexible: Flexible loads and distributed generation/storage used to modulate energy distribution.Toward these requirements, it is necessary to develop the microgrid with desirable performances, such as a fast response, efficient energy distribution and a satisfactory power balance between supply and demand. The realization of these goals heavily relies on an efficient and secure interaction within the microgrid, and thus addresses higher requirements for the communication network.However, with the rapid development of advanced information and communications technology (ICT), the microgrid turns into a more complicated bi-directional P2P energy transaction network. Big data are generated and exchanged among heterogeneous resources to enhance the penetration of renewable energy and increase the flexibility of the consumption sector. Therefore, compared with the traditional communication system, the microgrid communication system is more complex and may be exposed to security threats. Co...

Software-Defined Power Grids: A Survey on Opportunities and Taxonomy for Microgrids

“…The work presented here mostly focused on resiliency towards cyber-physical attacks in MGs mainly through network monitoring and control strategies. In light of this, a review article further discussed new challenges in the cyber-physical architecture of microgrids [15]. Although the article did not solely focus on SDN control of MGs, it highlighted how separation of the physical layer and the cyber-layer improved microgrid resiliency particularly under cyber-attacks.…”

“…Enabling technologies in the architecture allow for improvements in data communication and ensure power system stability. Tan et al [15] state in their article that a distributed MG should be energy efficient, connected, intelligent and flexible. SDN has been cited to provide management flexibility in these four key areas [14].…”

“…DDoS attacks are possible in a SDMG setup for example if the controller in-charge of global operations is overwhelmed with intruder induced control traffic thus affecting controller responsiveness. Tan et al [15] classify cyber-attacks on MGs into three main categories: Denial of Service (DoS), data replication by intruders and False Data Injection (FDI). Prevention of such attacks has also been categorised into attack detection and mitigation both in the network layer and the physical layer of the MG network.…”

“…A more proactive approach to cybersecurity in microgrids falls under the class of detection/mitigation [15], [54]. Here we will discuss the remedial action schemes towards cyberthreats.…”

Intelligent Buildings in Smart Grids: A Survey on Security and Privacy Issues Related to Energy Management

“…Many different incidents have been reported in the power system in the last several years, with the Stuxnet attack marking a turning point because of its virulence and the severe failures that it caused in different countries [26]. Since then, it has been clear that cyber-security must be guaranteed in intelligent power grids as a tool for increasing their resilience face to cyber-attacks [27], including all the different subsystems of the SG, such as MGs and IBs [28,29].…”