Cybersecurity by design for resilient voltage regulation in active distribution networks

Pacheco-Cherrez, David S., Mayo-Maldonado, Jonathan C., Guillen, Daniel and Escobar, Gerardo (2025) Cybersecurity by design for resilient voltage regulation in active distribution networks. IEEE Transactions on Smart Grid, 16 (6), 5009-5023. (doi:10.1109/TSG.2025.3601073).

Abstract

The transition to smart grids is advancing through the integration of grid-connected devices such as distributed energy resource (DER) inverters, distribution static synchronous compensators (D-STATCOMs), and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, all of which play a vital role in voltage regulation within active distribution networks (DNs). Yet, these devices face growing exposure to cyber threats. This paper proposes a cybersecurity framework embedded directly within their control systems to address these risks by design. Drawing on the widespread deployment of distribution phasor measurement units (D-PMUs) for voltage monitoring, the framework incorporates a digital twin for real-time assessment, supported by data fidelity tests. This approach enables the timely detection and mitigation of false-data injection (FDI) and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, preserving voltage stability without requiring hardware modifications. Simulations on the IEEE 33-node test feeder confirm the framework’s effectiveness in strengthening the resilience and security of grid-connected systems, representing a meaningful step forward in the protection of smart grids.

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Contributors

Author: Jonathan C. Mayo-Maldonado

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