Quantum Computing for Reliability Assessment of SCADA With Continuous Penetration Testing and High Penetration of Cyber–Physical Attacks

SCADA systems are essential for power system operation, providing real-time monitoring and control to enhance reliability. However, their digital nature exposes them to cyber-physical attacks, which can threaten system stability. This paper proposes a novel approach to evaluate the impact of Continuous Penetration Testing (CPT) on power system reliability, particularly in SCADA-regulated generation systems. By integrating quantum computing, the proposed method improves the efficiency and accuracy of reliability assessments, outperforming traditional Monte Carlo methods. Case study results demonstrate the effectiveness of CPT and highlight the computational advantages of quantum-enhanced reliability analysis.