Intertwined: Software-defined communication networks for multi-agent system-based Smart Grid control

Abstract

Facing current and future developments of the energy system, including the integration of large numbers of renewable energy sources and electric vehicles, live monitoring and control becomes essential for stable operation of the power grid. This transition to a Smart Grid requires coupling the power system with a reliable and real-time capable communication infrastructure. In response to this demand, we propose a combined approach for the control of power and communication systems, exploiting the opportunities of Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Due to its real-time capability, a Multi Agent System (MAS) is applied for controlling power flows, handling overloads and guaranteeing voltage stability in a decentralized manner. The MAS is supported by an Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) infrastructure, which follows the paradigms of SDN by applying a programmable controller platform with global network view to orchestrate traffic flows. To meet specific requirements of the MAS, we implement an SDN Northbound Interface, enabling control agents to communicate with the SDN controller directly. Thus, agents can advertise their demands to the controller, which translates them into corresponding forwarding rules and establishes them in the network. By applying fine grained prioritisation and integrating MAS and SDN controller, we showcase reliable and timely transmission of critical command messages, thereby ensuring power grid stability.