Stability Analysis of Multi-Area Interconnected Power Systems under Denial of Service Attacks

Academic Background

With the increasing demand for electricity in modern society, the stability and security of power systems have become critical issues. To meet the electricity demand, multiple power generation areas are interconnected to form an integrated system, ensuring that even if one area fails, others can continue to supply power. However, as power systems become more complex and networked, the threat of cyber-attacks, particularly Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, is growing. DoS attacks disrupt communication channels, potentially leading to system instability or even collapse. Therefore, studying the stability of Multi-Area Interconnected Power Systems (MAIPS) under DoS attacks is of significant theoretical and practical importance.

This research is based on this context, aiming to explore how to maintain the stability of MAIPS under DoS attacks and proposing a solution based on static feedback control. The study not only provides new insights into the stability analysis of power systems but also offers practical control strategies to counteract cyber-attacks.

Source of the Paper

This paper is co-authored by Mutaz M. Hamdan, Farid Flitti, Haris M. Khalid, and Yousef Al Wajih. The authors are affiliated with Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Higher Colleges of Technology, University of Dubai, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, respectively. The paper was accepted on February 18, 2025, and published in the journal Nonlinear Dynamics, with the DOI 10.1007/s11071-025-11025-2.

Research Process and Results

Research Process

The research process of this paper can be divided into the following steps:

1. System Modeling
   First, the authors established a mathematical model of a three-area interconnected power system. This model is based on the linearized Load Frequency Control (LFC) problem, considering state variables such as mechanical power, steam valve position, and rotor angular deviation of the generator. Through mathematical modeling, the authors described MAIPS as a distributed control system and defined the system’s state equations and control inputs.

2. Controller Design
   Under normal conditions, the authors designed a static feedback-based controller to stabilize MAIPS. The controller’s goal is to adjust the power generation of each area to ensure system frequency stability. The controller’s design considers the system’s dynamic characteristics, and the system’s stability is proven using Lyapunov functions.

3. Stability Analysis under DoS Attacks
   Next, the authors studied the stability of MAIPS under DoS attacks. DoS attacks disrupt communication channels, preventing the normal transmission of measurement and control signals. The authors assumed that DoS attacks have limited duration and frequency and analyzed the system’s stability using Lyapunov functions and the Small-Gain Approach. They also proposed an algorithm to design control parameters that maintain system stability under DoS attacks.

4. Simulation Verification
   To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the authors conducted a series of simulation experiments. The simulations modeled the dynamic response of MAIPS under DoS attacks and compared the system’s performance with and without the controller. The simulation results showed that the proposed control strategy effectively counteracts DoS attacks and maintains system stability.

Main Results

1. System Modeling and Controller Design
   Through mathematical modeling, the authors successfully described MAIPS as a distributed control system and designed a static feedback-based controller. The controller’s design, proven using Lyapunov functions, ensures the system’s stable operation under normal conditions.

2. Stability Analysis under DoS Attacks
   Using Lyapunov functions and the Small-Gain Approach, the authors analyzed the stability of MAIPS under DoS attacks. The results indicate that the system can remain stable if the duration and frequency of DoS attacks meet certain conditions. The proposed algorithm effectively designs control parameters to ensure system stability under DoS attacks.

3. Simulation Verification
   The simulation experiments validated the effectiveness of the proposed method. Under DoS attacks, the designed controller significantly reduces the system’s frequency deviation and shortens the stabilization time. Compared to the case without a controller, the proposed control strategy demonstrates better stability and disturbance rejection.

Conclusions and Significance

This research provides new insights and methods for the stability analysis of multi-area interconnected power systems under DoS attacks. By designing a static feedback-based controller and combining Lyapunov functions with the Small-Gain Approach, the authors successfully proved the system’s stability under DoS attacks. The simulation experiments further validated the effectiveness of the proposed method.

The scientific value of this study lies in providing a new theoretical framework for the stability analysis of power systems, particularly in countering cyber-attacks. At the same time, the research has significant practical value, offering feasible control strategies for the secure operation of power systems.

Research Highlights

1. Novel Control Strategy
   The paper proposes a static feedback-based controller that effectively counteracts DoS attacks and maintains power system stability.

2. Innovation in Theoretical Framework
   The authors combined Lyapunov functions and the Small-Gain Approach to propose a stability analysis framework applicable to MAIPS, providing new theoretical support for related research.

3. Sufficient Simulation Verification
   Through a series of simulation experiments, the authors validated the effectiveness of the proposed method, offering reliable evidence for practical applications.

Other Valuable Information

The paper also explores future research directions, suggesting the integration of Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) systems to further enhance the reliability and stability of power systems. Additionally, the authors point out that as power systems become more complex, cybersecurity issues will become increasingly important, and future research should further explore how to counteract various cyber-attacks.

Through this research, the authors provide important theoretical and practical guidance for the stability and security of power systems, with broad application prospects.