Keeping the lights on and the information flowing

We proposed a new framework for analyzing the impact that failures in the information infrastructure can have on the quality and reliability of the electricity supply. An analysis of major incidents using the proposed framework shows that information failures are quite often a significant contributing factor in their development and severity. We identified some of the challenges posed by the increasing reliance on information flow in the course of power system operation. We also identified some mitigating measures which could reduce the risks associated with failures in the power system information infrastructure.