Complex network theory and graph partitioning: Application to large interconnected networks

The research of weakness ties in graphs such as interconnected electrical transmission grids is a major concern in large infrastructures' studies. Some novel methodologies which are developed in advanced topics of complex systems studies and graph theory may be applied to the electrical grid. Indeed, in order to identify the potential cuts of large interconnected networks such as the interconnected European UCTE network first synchronous area, spectral partitioning and other graph weakness assessment have been studied. The use of the third eigenvalue is indeed unconventional, but it leads to useful results, allowing a new analysis of the last event which split the UCTE into three autonomous areas. Potentials and limits of this study are also presented.