Securing the Future - Emerging Technologies and Cybersecurity in Modern Power Grids

Modern power systems have become more complex and interconnected to meet the growing energy needed for residential, industrial, and commercial users. Consequently, robust security measures have become essential. This review paper explores various technologies, such as distributed energy resources, energy storage systems, and plug-in electric vehicle integration in modern power grids and highlights how these technologies have become essential to improving power systems' operating performances. It also describes the use of advanced power electronics devices and self-healing tools in power grids and analyses the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to facilitate energy resources. Moreover, the paper discusses several standards needed to protect power grids from cyber, physical, and operational threats. Furthermore, some sample cybersecurity attacks as well as challenges and future directions are presented. By providing an overview, this review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers working to enhance the security posture of modern power grids against evolving threats.