Detection of Cyber Attacks Against Voltage Control in Distribution Power Grids With PVs

Abstract

In this paper, we consider the impact of cyber attacks on voltage regulation in distribution systems when a number of photovoltaic (PV) systems are connected. We employ a centralized control scheme that utilizes voltage measurements from sectionizing switches equipped with sensors. It is demonstrated that if measurements are falsified by an attacker, voltage violation can occur in the system. However, by equipping the control with a detection algorithm, we verify that the damage can be limited especially when the number of attacked sensors is small through theoretical analysis and simulation case studies. In addition, studies are made on attacks which attempt to reduce the output power at PV systems equipped with overvoltage protection functions. Further discussion is provided on how to enhance the security level of the proposed algorithm.