Vulnerability Assessment in Power Systems: A Review

Abstract

Power systems are one of the most multifaceted systems and have a large significance in present society. For stable and continuous operation of such systems, numerous protection methods are compulsory. Although, modern power systems are fortified with numerous protection schemes with the goal of evading the unexpected events, they are still impacted by various emergency and mal-operation conditions. The most severe disturbances put the entire or at least a part of the network at the risk of blackout. If the emergency is not dealt with timely and accurately, the power system is probable to have cascading failures, which ultimately lead to a blackout. Due to the severe impacts, many nations around the world have research teams whose main task is to circumvent blackouts on their systems. Moreover, due to ecological concerns and expensive system expansion, power systems generally operate closer to their limits, which upsurges their vulnerability and possibility of blackouts. With the continuous development of power systems, rise in grid intricacy, and the drift towards deregulated market, vulnerability assessment is critical. It is of great significance to include vulnerability in power system planning and operating procedures, as it is the key to accurate assessment of power system security and stability. Thus, this paper aims to review the concept of vulnerability assessment in power systems and the associated research. This review can be a great starting point for researchers in the domain of power system security and vulnerability.