Hybrid AC/DC Distribution Systems; Control, Protection and Cyber Physical Security

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As the energy sector enters the era of smart grids, the nature of loads have radically changed from pure Alternating Current (AC) to a mix of AC and Direct Current (DC). This has created a new demand for the practical implementation of hybrid AC/DC distribution systems. Accompanying these changes is the transformation of conventional AC distribution systems into hybrid AC/DC Active Distribution Systems (ADSs). These ADS host distributed and renewable generation units, energy storage devices, load management controllers, grid-automation devices, and algorithms with seamless integration characteristics. Although DC distribution of power has been widely implemented in different applications, such as aircrafts, shipboards, and communication centers, the technology is still in its early stages, and its technical and economic feasibility with respect to distribution systems needs to be studied further. In particular, the integration of DC systems into existing AC infrastructure and the operation of this new evolving hybrid AC/DC paradigm are a significant challenge, particularly the operation, control, protection, and security aspects. This proposal aims to facilitate the seamless integration of hybrid AC/DC networks into existing smart distribution systems. This aim will be achieved through providing several in-depth studies to examine the barriers of integration and to provide robust and reliable controls that will help in achieving the proposal goal. The proposal will focus on developing a planning methodology that will identify the optimal layout and design of the hybrid AC/DC Active Distribution System. In addition, the program will focus on developing innovation robust power management control techniques, both decentralized and distributed, that should lead to the seamless operation of hybrid AC/DC networks. As the signature of DC fault currents is their very high rate of change and high magnitude, with peaks usually attained within 2 ms, this program will address the protection challenge through the implementation of innovative traveling wave-based techniques to guarantee the fast identification and allocation of DC faults. A fast, sensitive, and selective DC fault detection that is capable of coordinating with the relatively slow protection schemes on the AC side will be developed. Finally, immunity of the AC/DC distribution system to cyber physical attacks will be evaluated. Possible threats to Volt/Var and protection systems will be investigated. The proposal will focus on developing a cyber–physical security model that is capable of integrating dynamic systems and threat models within a unified framework. The program will help in achieving the Canadian vision of secure and reliable distribution system while also focusing on renewable energy integration. The program will help training HQP thus providing skilled individuals to different utilities in the energy sector.