Cyber-Physical System Security and Impact Analysis

Electric power grids have been identified as critical infrastructures. They are increasingly dependent on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for the operation and control of physical facilities. It can be envisioned that on top of the power infrastructure reside ICT layers that are coupled with the electric grids. As the ICT connectivity increases, so does the potential for cyber intrusions. This paper describes the importance of cyber security for power systems. A testbed architecture provides an accurate and powerful tool for identification of cyber-physical system vulnerabilities, security enhancement, impact analysis, and mitigation of cyber attacks. Simulation scenarios of cyber intrusions and attacks on the power grid, using the testbed, are discussed. The impact analysis’ simulation results capture the dynamic behavior of IEEE 39-bus system as a response to cyber attacks which may evolve into a partial or complete blackout. The problem of fast restoration from blackout after cyber attacks is identified.