A Comprehensive Review of Architecture, Communication, and Cybersecurity in Networked Microgrid Systems

Abstract

Networked microgrids (NMGs) are developing as a viable approach for integrating an expanding number of distributed energy resources (DERs) while improving energy system performance. NMGs, as compared to typical power systems, are constructed of many linked microgrids that can function independently or as part of a more extensive network. This allows NMGs to be more flexible, dependable, and efficient. The present study comprehensively investigates architecture, communication, and cybersecurity issues in NMGs. This comprehensive study examines various aspects related to networked microgrids (NMGs). It explores the architecture of NMGs, including control techniques, protection, standards, and the challenges associated with their adoption. Additionally, it investigates communication in NMGs, focusing on the technologies, protocols, and the impact of communication on the functioning of these systems. Furthermore, this study addresses cybersecurity challenges specific to NMGs, such as diverse cyberattack types, detection and mitigation strategies, and the importance of awareness training. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for NMG researchers and practitioners, emphasizing critical aspects that must be considered to ensure the safe and efficient operation of these systems.

Assessment of Cyber-Physical Inverter-Based Microgrid Control Performance under Communication Delay and Cyber-Attacks

“…If the sent packets are large enough, the communication channels may become overburdened, and packets may not be able to reach their destination. Modeling UDP flooding attacks involves switching UDP traffic to the intended target point [38]. The attackers might utilize botnets to engage in illicit behaviors for hacking devices by sending UDP flooding attacks, causing the interruption of the targeted point, as Figure 6 depicts.…”

A review of battery state of charge estimation and management systems: Models and future prospective

“…Hu et al, 2017;Ramos et al, 2021). Additional advantages came with integrating battery ESSs in the power grid, including (1) grid support: energy storage systems can supply backup power in case of peak-load durations and a lack of resources (Aghmadi, Hussein, Polara, & Mohammed, 2023). This feature will guarantee grid safety, reliability, and stability, (2) mitigating the power system fluctuations through regulating the voltage and frequency signals will be reflected in improving the system power quality, (3) enhancing the grid operability will raise its efficiency, minimizing the infrastructure expansion.…”

Hardware Implementation of a Resilient Energy Management System for Networked Microgrids

“…Their main objectives were to minimize the operational cost, reduce the computational burdens, enhance the system resiliency, and improve the communication flow. For instance, centralized, decentralized, distributed, and hierarchical energy management systems are the four main classical architectures in this regard [30,31]. The centralized approach collects information from various points in the system and manipulates these measurements through a centralized processing unit to perform optimal scheduling, power sharing, and stability enhancement.…”

“…The control action speed at this level is slower than that at the primary level for day-ahead load forecasting and operation cost optimization. This hierarchical architecture provides a swift and smooth transition between the operating states [30,33,35].…”

“…These cyber threats will necessitate further security and authentication layers, complicating the EMS structure and delaying the needed command action. In this regard, balancing the system requirements regarding the number of measured data and the needed control actions for the capabilities and data security provided by the appropriate EMS system is imperative [30,[45][46][47][48].…”