Smart Energy Meets Smart Security: A Comprehensive Review of AI Applications in Cybersecurity for Renewable Energy Systems

Abstract

The rapid adoption of renewable energy systems has brought forth a new set of cybersecurity challenges that require innovative solutions. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising approach to tackle these challenges. This paper provides a comprehensive review of more than 19 studies that investigate the applications of AI in cybersecurity for renewable energy systems. By analyzing these studies, a range of opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of AI in this domain are identified. Notably, the findings indicate that over 75% of the studies acknowledge the significant potential of AI in enhancing the security of renewable energy systems. Among the various AI techniques employed, machine learning emerges as the most extensively utilized method, demonstrating an impressive detection rate of 85% and a false positive rate below 5%. However, certain challenges persist, including the limited availability of relevant data and concerns regarding the interpretability of AI models. To address these challenges, this paper concludes by providing recommendations for future research directions in this field, aiming to drive advancements in the intersection of smart energy and smart security.

The importance of cybersecurity in protecting renewable energy investment: A strategic analysis of threats and solutions

“…Despite these promising results, challenges such as the limited availability of relevant data and concerns regarding the interpretability of AI models persist. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fully realizing the potential of AI in safeguarding renewable energy systems against cyber threats (Mohamed et al, 2023). The cybersecurity of inverter-based smart power systems, integral to the operation of smart grids, has been thoroughly reviewed to identify vulnerabilities and devise state-of-the-art defense strategies.…”

“…Future research directions are expected to focus on overcoming these hurdles, potentially through the generation of synthetic data for training purposes and the development of explainable AI models. These advancements could significantly bolster the security of renewable energy systems by providing more effective and transparent cybersecurity solutions (Mohamed et al, 2023). Inverter-based smart power systems, crucial for the operation of smart grids, face vulnerabilities to cyberattacks due to their deep ICT infrastructure integration.…”

“…However, the deployment of AI in cybersecurity also faces challenges, including the scarcity of relevant data and the interpretability of AI models. Addressing these issues is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of AI in threat detection and response within the renewable energy sector (Mohamed et al, 2023). The examination of cybercrimes and their impact on critical infrastructure sectors, including energy, transportation, and financial systems, highlights the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity threats.…”

“…However, the deployment of AI in cybersecurity also faces challenges, including the scarcity of relevant data and concerns over the interpretability of AI models. Addressing these issues is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of AI in threat detection and response within the renewable energy sector (Mohamed et al, 2023). The utilization of AI and ML in energy research has also been explored, with a focus on forecasting renewable energy demand and capacity.…”

“…This analysis explores the gaps and opportunities for strengthening security in renewable energy systems, drawing insights from recent research to guide strategic enhancements in cybersecurity measures. The comprehensive review by Mohamed et al (2023) on AI applications in cybersecurity for renewable energy systems underscores the potential of AI to revolutionize security measures within the sector . The study highlights the effectiveness of machine learning techniques in detecting cyber threats with high accuracy.…”