Faults and failures in cyber-power interdependent networks

Modern power systems employ various information and communication network technologies to serve end-users more efficiently and with acceptable levels of reliability. The cyber network is categorized as a digital communication network, so it intrinsically follows similar regulations, as well as faults and failures. A data communication system is a chain of components stretching from a data source to its destination. Like a chain, each component must accomplish its assigned tasks adequately. Nevertheless, this novel technology has introduced new groups of failures that are conceptually different from those of traditional power networks. Power system reliability studies must consider the failure modes and repair strategies of the cyber network. This paper investigates cyber-power network failures and proposes a novel, all-inclusive categorization of failures that have the potential to threaten the power system´s proper operation. Microgrids and automated substations are two well-known cyber-power networks that could benefit from the proposed study.