Hysteretic transition of coarse-grained power grid model on small-world network

TL;DR

This paper investigates how small-world network structures influence the stability and failure dynamics of power grid models, revealing potential strategies to prevent blackouts through network topology modifications.

Contribution

It demonstrates that small-world networks can stabilize power grid operation and eliminate certain failure triggers, offering new insights into blackout prevention.

Findings

Steady state can be maintained despite phase disorder.

Linear stability is proven for small phase differences.

Small-world networks can prevent hysteretic power failures.

Abstract

We study synchronous phenomena of a coarse-grained power grid model, the swing equation, on small-world networks. We show that its steady state, which stands for the normal operation of the power systems, can be realized even if the phases are disordered. In addition, we prove the linear stability of steady state with small-different phases between the adjacent oscillators. On the other hand, a trigger of instantaneous power failure, which is described by the hysteretic transition, might disappear on an appropriate small-world network. This result suggests that the small-world connection would potentially prevent the massive blackouts.