Securing Smart Microgrids: A Cybersecurity Survey

The cybersecurity concerns of intelligent microgrids are thoroughly investigated in this scholarly work. The intricate link that exists between the cyber grid and smart grid operating processes is examined, exposing the cyber system's susceptibility to different types of attacks. The research highlights the potentially catastrophic consequences, both materially and financially, that might result from hacks that jeopardize the operation of these smart microgrids. Particularly in islanded modes with little inertia, hackers are more likely to affect power electronics-intensive smart small power plants and seriously jeopardize their operational stability. The study starts with a brief synopsis of digital and physical systems in wise micro-grids before delving further into cyberattacks that aim to compromise data availability, confidentiality, and integrity. The research categorizes defensive methods into two groups in order to counter FDI attacks: protection plans, which include safeguarding certain meter readings, and surveillance/mitigation strategies, which comprise perhaps static or dynamic detection techniques. Examples of how to create, detect, and mitigate FDI attacks in smart microgrids are provided. The paper also includes a list of critical cybersecurity guidelines pertaining to smart electricity networks and notable instances of ongoing cybersecurity projects carried out globally. The essay concludes with a discussion of future directions in smart microgrid cybersecurity.