A Game-Theoretic Control Approach to Mitigate Cyber Switching Attacks in Smart Grid Systems

Abstract—A parametric game-theoretic controller is proposed to stabilize power systems during and after cyber switching attacks. The attacks are based on calculated switchings of external power sources in order to destabilize the power system. The controller relies on receiving timely information from the cyber component of the smart grid to control the output of fast-acting external power sources in order to balance the swing equation of the system. In this regard, game-theoretic analysis is applied to devise reactive strategies for the controller to drive the frequency of the system’s generators to stability. The proposed controller gives system operators the flexibility to meet constraints on external power while achieving an acceptable stability time. Numerical results show the usefulness of the proposed controller in stabilizing the WECC 3-generator power system during and after a switching attack. I