Collective nonlinear dynamics and self-organization in decentralized power grids

Abstract

The rapid increase in renewable energy production facilities, domestic installations injecting energy back onto the grid, and the surge in electric vehicle adoption and associated high voltage charging stations are all placing unprecedented demands on the electric power grid. This article summarizes the physics that can inform the design and operation principles for future compliant power grids. The authors show that mathematically modeling grids as coupled nonlinear dynamical systems and networks, and utilizing concepts from statistical physics and graph theory provide a comprehensive framework to understanding and controlling their collective behavior as a system of many interacting units. The article covers key topics including the synchronization dynamics and structural stability of power grids as well as methods to control dynamics and mitigate cascades of failures and large-scale blackouts.