First Approach for a Multi-dimensional State Classification for ICT-reliant Energy Systems

Inhalt:
The ongoing smart grid vision implies the decarbonization and digitalization of power systems so as to improve its efficiency, functionality and flexibility; but with heavy dependence on the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Besides adding new functionalities, the increased intertwinement between the power and ICT domains also introduces new threats and vulnerabilities. There is a lack of models and tools to analyze the interdependancy between power and ICT systems which have been traditionally treated as separate entities. This paper presents a multi-dimensional state classification approach which is able to accurately model the power-ICT interdependancy in terms of system operational states. The proposed approach builds on the traditional power system operational state classification by introducing ICT states based on its performance aspects. This model can be used to analyze the behaviour of the combined system for different events involving both power and ICT domains in terms of system states; which can then be used for the evaluation of risks as well as the development of countermeasures in smart grids.