Learning to control in power systems: Design and analysis guidelines for concrete safety problems

Abstract

Rapid progress in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) has brought renewed attention to its applicability in power systems for modern forms of control that help integrate higher levels of renewable generation and address increasing levels of uncertainty and variability. In this paper we discuss these new applications and shine light on the most relevant new safety risks and considerations that emerge when relying on learning for control purposes in electric grid operations. We build on recent taxonomical work in AI safety and focus on four concrete safety problems. We draw on two case studies, one in frequency regulation and one in distribution system control, to exemplify these problems and show mitigating measures. We then provide general guidelines and literature to help people working on integrating learning capabilities for control purposes to make safety risks a central tenet of design.