Role-based model security access control for smart power-grids computer networks

Recent development of microgrids in power systems, introduction of open access competition by governments in electricity industries, and increased use of network-controlled devices in power systems have resulted utilities in a greater reliance on computer networks for proper power-grid operations. This paper proposes a new network access control strategy and role-based model to increase the power-grid network security. The new model extends the network access control from a single security domain to multiple domains for interconnected microgrids. This paper also proposes a security policy managing method using XML to simplify power-grid network security administrations. With the proposed method, the authorization is independently defined and separated from policy representations and implementation mechanisms, and a digital credential is introduced to establish trust and role assignments for users in different microgrid domains. Case studies of the new model are presented.