Cyber-secure decentralized energy management for IoT-enabled active distribution networks

This paper provides a strategic solution for enhancing the cybersecurity of power distribution system operations when information and operation technologies converge in active distribution network (ADN). The paper first investigates the significance of Internet of Things (IoT) in enabling fine-grained observability and controllability of ADN in networked microgrids. Given severe cybersecurity vulnerabilities embedded in conventionally centralized energy management schemes, the paper then proposes a cyber-secure decentralized energy management framework that applies a distributed decision-making intelligence to networked microgrids while securing their individual mandates for optimal operation. In particular, the proposed framework takes advantage of software-defined networking technologies that can secure communications among IoT devices in individual microgrids, and exploits potentials for introducing blockchain technologies that can preserve the integrity of communications among networked microgrids in ADN. Furthermore, the paper presents the details of application scenarios where the proposed framework is employed to secure peer-to-peer transactive energy management based on a set of interoperable blockchains. It is finally concluded that the proposed framework can play a significant role in enhancing the efficiency, reliability, resilience, and sustainability of electricity services in ADN.