Keywords

Distributed Energy Resource, risk assessment, post-attack restoration, co-simulation platform, cyber security, resilience

Abstract

Inverter-based Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) have experienced a significant rise in popularity due to their distinct advantages, such as improved power quality, advanced functionalities, and rapid response capabilities. These attributes make them particularly well-suited for modern power systems, where the growing demand for efficiency, flexibility, and reliability is crucial. As a result, the integration of inverter-based DERs into distribution networks has been steadily increasing, as they play a critical role in enhancing system performance and meeting the evolving requirements of contemporary power infrastructures.

However, the integration of inverter-based DERs presents several challenges that must be addressed for effective implementation. One significant challenge is the accurate modeling of DERs. Currently, these resources are generally represented as traditional PQ or PV buses at the system level. This approach, however, fails to capture their dynamic characteristics and capabilities, potentially leading to a failure in reflecting the actual behavior of DERs during system-level analysis. Therefore, it is essential to develop models that are able to accurately represent the functionality of inverter-based DERs to enhance the effectiveness of system analysis.

Another major challenge involves the cybersecurity of DER communication networks. These networks rely on numerous sensors and actuators for real-time monitoring and control, which increases their vulnerability to cyber threats. Given the low inertia of inverters, such threats can result in severe consequences, including disconnections of DERs or even large-scale outages. Consequently, it is crucial to assess the cyber risks associated with DER cyber networks and implement robust security measures to ensure reliable operation and enhance the overall resilience of distribution systems.

This dissertation presents a series of research works aimed at addressing the challenges discussed previously. The first work develops a hierarchical restoration framework that integrates grid-edge DERs, clarifying DER control functionality from the system level down to the device level. The second work proposes a risk assessment framework specifically designed for networks with high DER penetration. This framework assesses attack probability based on component vulnerability and criticality, and quantifies the potential impact according to DER control applications and the communication network’s propagation patterns. This work identifies the most vulnerable components and provides guidelines for future security enhancements. The third work creates a co-simulation platform for cyber-physical power systems, facilitating security analyses of these systems. Finally, the fourth work introduces a post-attack restoration model that manages system recovery while accounting for potential compromises within the cyber network. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of these proposed approaches, indicating their functionality in strengthening the cyber-physical resilience of active distribution systems.

Completion Date

2024

Semester

Fall

Committee Chair

Wei Sun

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Degree Program

Electrical Engineering

Format

PDF

Identifier

DP0028989

Language

English

Release Date

12-15-2024

Access Status

Dissertation

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Accessibility Status

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