Open AccessBuilding resilient cyber-physical power systems
Author(s) -
Mariela Tapia,
Pablo Thier,
Stefan GößlingReisemann
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
zeitschrift für technikfolgenabschätzung in theorie und praxis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2568-020X
pISSN - 2567-8833
DOI - 10.14512/tatup.29.1.23
Subject(s) - resilience (materials science) , cyber physical system , vulnerability (computing) , risk analysis (engineering) , electric power system , information and communications technology , computer security , computer science , psychological resilience , enforcement , critical infrastructure , power (physics) , business , psychology , political science , physics , quantum mechanics , world wide web , law , psychotherapist , thermodynamics , operating system
Power systems are undergoing a profound transformation towards cyber- physical systems. Disruptive changes due to energy system transition and the complexity of the interconnected systems expose the power system to new, unknown, and unpredictable risks. To identify the critical points, a vulnerability assessment was conducted, involving experts from the power as well as the information and communication technologies (ICT) sectors. Weaknesses were identified, e. g., the lack of policy enforcement, which are worsened by the unreadiness of the actors involved. Due to the complex dynamics of ICT, it is infeasible to keep a complete inventory of potential stressors to define appropriate preparation and prevention mechanisms. Therefore, we suggest applying a resilience management approach to increase the resilience of the system. It aims at better riding through failures rather than building higher walls. We conclude that building resilience in cyber-physical power systems is feasible and helps in preparing for the unexpected.