Applying Complex Network Theory to the Vulnerability Assessment of Interdependent Energy Infrastructures

Abstract

In this paper, we evaluate the use of statistical indexes from graph theory as a possible alternative to power-flow techniques for analyzing cascading failures in coupled electric power and natural gas transmission systems. Both methodologies are applied comparatively to coupled IEEE and natural gas test networks. The cascading failure events are simulated through two strategies of network decomposition: Deliberate attacks on highly connected nodes and random faults. The analysis is performed by simulating successive N-k contingencies in a coupled network, where the network structure changes with the elimination of each node. The suitability of graph-theoretic techniques for assessing the vulnerability of interdependent electric power and natural gas infrastructures is demonstrated.

An SNA-DEA Prioritization Framework to Identify Critical Nodes of Gas Networks: The Case of the US Interstate Gas Infrastructure

“…The scholars hypothesized several node-attack modes and investigated their impact on the structural and operational performance of the power grid. Beyza et al [22] employed graph indexes and power-flow techniques to analyze electricity and gas interconnected systems. Deliberate attacks on highly connected nodes and random faults strategies were used to simulate failure effects, changing the structure of the network by eliminating critical nodes each time.…”

Improved Graph Model for Interdependent Gas and Electricity Critical Infrastructures

“…The proposed approach already supports the additional research of the authors. Some other works have been developed based on the representation developed in this article [7]- [10].…”

“…Also, these representations are useful for analysing the inherent structural characteristics of the two networks, since they use little model information, do not require specific modelling software, and need short computational time. The above allows multiple studies to be carried out according to the interests of researchers, as can be found in [7]- [10].…”

Probabilistic Vulnerability Assessment of Transmission Lines Considering Cascading Failures

“…A few power grid vulnerability assessment methods have been previously proposed for studying cascading failure, namely, structural analysis methods based on complex network theory [5][6][7], fault simulation methods based on self-organizing criticality theory [8][9][10], fault evolution methods based on cellular automata theory [11,12], and fault chain extraction methods based on Heinrich causal chain theory [13][14][15].…”