Volt/VAR Optimization in the Presence of Attacks: A Real-Time Co-Simulation Study
Mohd Asim Aftab, Astha Chawla, Pedro P. Vergara, Shehab Ahmed,, Charalambos Konstantinou

TL;DR
This paper investigates how cyberattacks on communication infrastructure can disrupt Volt/VAR optimization in distribution networks with renewable DERs, using a real-time co-simulation setup to evaluate impacts on voltage regulation and system stability.
Contribution
It introduces a real-time co-simulation framework to assess cyberattack impacts on VVO, highlighting vulnerabilities in communication protocols and their effects on grid stability.
Findings
Corrupted messages can cause voltage violations.
Cyberattacks increase VR setpoint updates.
Economic losses result from communication tampering.
Abstract
Traditionally, Volt/VAR optimization (VVO) is performed in distribution networks through legacy devices such as on-load tap changers (OLTCs), voltage regulators (VRs), and capacitor banks. With the amendment in IEEE 1547 standard, distributed energy resources (DERs) can now provide reactive power support to the grid. For this, renewable energy-based DERs, such as PV, are interfaced with the distribution networks through smart inverters (SIs). Due to the intermittent nature of such resources, VVO transforms into a dynamic problem that requires extensive communication between the VVO controller and devices performing the VVO scheme. This communication, however, can be potentially tampered with by an adversary rendering the VVO ineffective. In this regard, it is important to assess the impact of cyberattacks on the VVO scheme. This paper develops a real-time co-simulation setup to assess…
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Taxonomy
TopicsOptimal Power Flow Distribution · Smart Grid Energy Management · Smart Grid Security and Resilience
