Publications

Abstract not provided.

Unpredictable disturbances with dynamic trajectories such as extreme weather events and cyber attacks require adaptive, cyber-physical special protection schemes to mitigate cascading impact in the electric grid. A harmonized automatic relay mitigation of nefarious intentional events (HARMONIE) special protection scheme (SPS) is being developed to address that need. However, for evaluating the HARMONIE-SPS performance in classifying system disturbances and mitigating consequences, a cyber-physical testbed is required to further development and validate the methodology. In this paper, we present a design for a co-simulation testbed leveraging the SCEPTRE™ platform and the real-time digital simulator (RTDS). The integration of these two platforms is detailed, as well as the unique, specific needs for testing HARMONIE-SPS within the environment. Results are presented from tests involving a WSCC 9-bus system with different load shedding scenarios with varying cyber-physical impact.

Abstract not provided.

Due to the increasing complexity of energy systems and consequent increase in attack vectors, protecting the power grid from unknown disturbances and attacks using special protection schemes is crucial. In this paper, we discuss the machine learning component of the HARMONIE special protection scheme which relies on a novel combination of graph neural networks and Transformer models to jointly process cyber (network) and physical data. Our approach shows promise in detecting cyber and physical disturbances and includes the capability to identify relevant portions of the input sequence that contribute to the model's prediction. With this in place, the end goal of developing automated mitigation strategies is within reach.

Abstract not provided.

Traditional protective relay voting schemes utilize simple logic to achieve confidence in relay trip actions. However, the smart grid is rapidly evolving and there are new needs for a next-generation relay voting scheme. In such new schemes, aspects such as inter-relay relationships and out-of-band data can be included. In this work, we explore the use of consensus algorithms and how they can be utilized for groups of relays to vote on system protection actions and also reach consensus on the values of variables in the system. A proposed design is explored with a simple case study with two different scenarios, including simulation in PowerWorld Simulator, to demonstrate the consensus algorithm benefits and future directions are discussed.

Abstract not provided.

Special protection schemes (SPSs) safeguard the grid by detecting predefined abnormal conditions and deploying predefined corrective actions. Utilities leverage SPSs to maintain stability, acceptable voltages, and loading limits during disturbances. However, traditional SPSs cannot defend against unpredictable disturbances. Events such as cyber attacks, extreme weather, and electromagnetic pulses have unpredictable trajectories and require adaptive response. Therefore, we propose a harmonized automatic relay mitigation of nefarious intentional events (HARMONIE)-SPS that learns system conditions, mitigates cyber-physical consequences, and preserves grid operation during both predictable and unpredictable disturbances. In this paper, we define the HARMONIE-SPS approach, detail progress on its development, and provide initial results using a WSCC 9-bus system.

Abstract not provided.

Abstract not provided.