Author: Yinliang Xu
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119534887
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 352
Book Description
Go in-depth with this comprehensive discussion of distributed energy management Distributed Energy Management of Electrical Power Systems provides the most complete analysis of fully distributed control approaches and their applications for electric power systems available today. Authored by four respected leaders in the field, the book covers the technical aspects of control, operation management, and optimization of electric power systems. In each chapter, the book covers the foundations and fundamentals of the topic under discussion. It then moves on to more advanced applications. Topics reviewed in the book include: System-level coordinated control Optimization of active and reactive power in power grids The coordinated control of distributed generation, elastic load and energy storage systems Distributed Energy Management incorporates discussions of emerging and future technologies and their potential effects on electrical power systems. The increased impact of renewable energy sources is also covered. Perfect for industry practitioners and graduate students in the field of power systems, Distributed Energy Management remains the leading reference for anyone with an interest in its fascinating subject matter.
Distributed Energy Management of Electrical Power Systems
Author: Yinliang Xu
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119534887
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 352
Book Description
Go in-depth with this comprehensive discussion of distributed energy management Distributed Energy Management of Electrical Power Systems provides the most complete analysis of fully distributed control approaches and their applications for electric power systems available today. Authored by four respected leaders in the field, the book covers the technical aspects of control, operation management, and optimization of electric power systems. In each chapter, the book covers the foundations and fundamentals of the topic under discussion. It then moves on to more advanced applications. Topics reviewed in the book include: System-level coordinated control Optimization of active and reactive power in power grids The coordinated control of distributed generation, elastic load and energy storage systems Distributed Energy Management incorporates discussions of emerging and future technologies and their potential effects on electrical power systems. The increased impact of renewable energy sources is also covered. Perfect for industry practitioners and graduate students in the field of power systems, Distributed Energy Management remains the leading reference for anyone with an interest in its fascinating subject matter.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119534887
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 352
Book Description
Go in-depth with this comprehensive discussion of distributed energy management Distributed Energy Management of Electrical Power Systems provides the most complete analysis of fully distributed control approaches and their applications for electric power systems available today. Authored by four respected leaders in the field, the book covers the technical aspects of control, operation management, and optimization of electric power systems. In each chapter, the book covers the foundations and fundamentals of the topic under discussion. It then moves on to more advanced applications. Topics reviewed in the book include: System-level coordinated control Optimization of active and reactive power in power grids The coordinated control of distributed generation, elastic load and energy storage systems Distributed Energy Management incorporates discussions of emerging and future technologies and their potential effects on electrical power systems. The increased impact of renewable energy sources is also covered. Perfect for industry practitioners and graduate students in the field of power systems, Distributed Energy Management remains the leading reference for anyone with an interest in its fascinating subject matter.
Integration of Distributed Energy Resources in Power Systems
Author: Toshihisa Funabashi
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128032138
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 324
Book Description
Integration of Distributed Energy Resources in Power Systems: Implementation, Operation and Control covers the operation of power transmission and distribution systems and their growing difficulty as the share of renewable energy sources in the world's energy mix grows and the proliferation trend of small scale power generation becomes a reality. The book gives students at the graduate level, as well as researchers and power engineering professionals, an understanding of the key issues necessary for the development of such strategies. It explores the most relevant topics, with a special focus on transmission and distribution areas. Subjects such as voltage control, AC and DC microgrids, and power electronics are explored in detail for all sources, while not neglecting the specific challenges posed by the most used variable renewable energy sources. - Presents the most relevant aspects of the integration of distributed energy into power systems, with special focus on the challenges for transmission and distribution - Explores the state-of the-art in applications of the most current technology, giving readers a clear roadmap - Deals with the technical and economic features of distributed energy resources and discusses their business models
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128032138
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 324
Book Description
Integration of Distributed Energy Resources in Power Systems: Implementation, Operation and Control covers the operation of power transmission and distribution systems and their growing difficulty as the share of renewable energy sources in the world's energy mix grows and the proliferation trend of small scale power generation becomes a reality. The book gives students at the graduate level, as well as researchers and power engineering professionals, an understanding of the key issues necessary for the development of such strategies. It explores the most relevant topics, with a special focus on transmission and distribution areas. Subjects such as voltage control, AC and DC microgrids, and power electronics are explored in detail for all sources, while not neglecting the specific challenges posed by the most used variable renewable energy sources. - Presents the most relevant aspects of the integration of distributed energy into power systems, with special focus on the challenges for transmission and distribution - Explores the state-of the-art in applications of the most current technology, giving readers a clear roadmap - Deals with the technical and economic features of distributed energy resources and discusses their business models
Operation of Distributed Energy Resources in Smart Distribution Networks
Author: Kazem Zare
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128148926
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 424
Book Description
Operation of Distributed Energy Resources in Smart Distribution Networks defines the barriers and challenges of smart distribution networks, ultimately proposing optimal solutions for addressing them. The book considers their use as an important part of future electrical power systems and their ability to improve the local flexibility and reliability of electrical systems. It carefully defines the concept as a radial network with a cluster of distributed energy generations, various types of loads, and energy storage systems. In addition, the book details how the huge penetration of distributed energy resources and the intermittent nature of renewable generations may cause system problems. Readers will find this to be an important resource that analyzes and introduces the features and problems of smart distribution networks from different aspects. - Integrates different types of elements, including electrical vehicles, demand response programs, and various renewable energy sources in distribution networks - Proposes optimal operational models for the short-term performance and scheduling of a distribution network - Discusses the uncertainties of renewable resources and intermittent load in the decision-making process for distribution networks
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128148926
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 424
Book Description
Operation of Distributed Energy Resources in Smart Distribution Networks defines the barriers and challenges of smart distribution networks, ultimately proposing optimal solutions for addressing them. The book considers their use as an important part of future electrical power systems and their ability to improve the local flexibility and reliability of electrical systems. It carefully defines the concept as a radial network with a cluster of distributed energy generations, various types of loads, and energy storage systems. In addition, the book details how the huge penetration of distributed energy resources and the intermittent nature of renewable generations may cause system problems. Readers will find this to be an important resource that analyzes and introduces the features and problems of smart distribution networks from different aspects. - Integrates different types of elements, including electrical vehicles, demand response programs, and various renewable energy sources in distribution networks - Proposes optimal operational models for the short-term performance and scheduling of a distribution network - Discusses the uncertainties of renewable resources and intermittent load in the decision-making process for distribution networks
Communication and Control in Electric Power Systems
Author: Mohammad Shahidehpour
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0471462918
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 557
Book Description
The first extensive reference on these important techniques The restructuring of the electric utility industry has created the need for a mechanism that can effectively coordinate the various entities in a power market, enabling them to communicate efficiently and perform at an optimal level. Communication and Control in Electric Power Systems, the first resource to address its subject in an extended format, introduces parallel and distributed processing techniques as a compelling solution to this critical problem. Drawing on their years of experience in the industry, Mohammad Shahidehpour and Yaoyu Wang deliver comprehensive coverage of parallel and distributed processing techniques with a focus on power system optimization, control, and communication. The authors begin with theoretical background and an overview of the increasingly deregulated power market, then move quickly into the practical applications and implementations of these pivotal techniques. Chapters include: Integrated Control Center Information Parallel and Distributed Computation of Power Systems Common Information Model and Middleware for Integration Online Distributed Security Assessment and Control Integration, Control, and Operation of Distributed Generation Agent Theory and Power Systems Management e-Commerce of Electricity A ready resource for both students and practitioners, Communication and Control in Electric Power Systems proves an ideal textbook for first-year graduate students in power engineering with an interest in computer communication systems and control center design. Designers, operators, planners, and researchers will likewise appreciate its unique contribution to the professional literature.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0471462918
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 557
Book Description
The first extensive reference on these important techniques The restructuring of the electric utility industry has created the need for a mechanism that can effectively coordinate the various entities in a power market, enabling them to communicate efficiently and perform at an optimal level. Communication and Control in Electric Power Systems, the first resource to address its subject in an extended format, introduces parallel and distributed processing techniques as a compelling solution to this critical problem. Drawing on their years of experience in the industry, Mohammad Shahidehpour and Yaoyu Wang deliver comprehensive coverage of parallel and distributed processing techniques with a focus on power system optimization, control, and communication. The authors begin with theoretical background and an overview of the increasingly deregulated power market, then move quickly into the practical applications and implementations of these pivotal techniques. Chapters include: Integrated Control Center Information Parallel and Distributed Computation of Power Systems Common Information Model and Middleware for Integration Online Distributed Security Assessment and Control Integration, Control, and Operation of Distributed Generation Agent Theory and Power Systems Management e-Commerce of Electricity A ready resource for both students and practitioners, Communication and Control in Electric Power Systems proves an ideal textbook for first-year graduate students in power engineering with an interest in computer communication systems and control center design. Designers, operators, planners, and researchers will likewise appreciate its unique contribution to the professional literature.
Pathways to a Smarter Power System
Author: Ozan Erdinc
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0081025939
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 444
Book Description
Pathways to a Smarter Power System studies different concepts within smart grids that are used in both industry and system regulators (e.g. distribution and transmission system operators) and research. This book covers these concepts from multiple perspectives and in multiple contexts, presenting detailed technical information on renewable energy systems, distributed generation and energy storage units, methods to activate the demand side of power systems, market structure needs, and advanced planning concepts and new operational requirements, specifically for power system protection, technological evolvements, and requirements regarding technology in ICT, power electronics and control areas. This book provides energy researchers and engineers with an indispensable guide on how to apply wider perspectives to the different technological and conceptual requirements of a smarter power system. - Includes concepts regarding conceptual and technological needs and investment planning suggestions for smart grid enabling strategies - Contains new electric power system operational concepts required by industry, along with R&D studies addressing new solutions to potential operational problems - Covers pathways to smarter power systems from successful existing examples to expected short, medium and long-term possibilities
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0081025939
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 444
Book Description
Pathways to a Smarter Power System studies different concepts within smart grids that are used in both industry and system regulators (e.g. distribution and transmission system operators) and research. This book covers these concepts from multiple perspectives and in multiple contexts, presenting detailed technical information on renewable energy systems, distributed generation and energy storage units, methods to activate the demand side of power systems, market structure needs, and advanced planning concepts and new operational requirements, specifically for power system protection, technological evolvements, and requirements regarding technology in ICT, power electronics and control areas. This book provides energy researchers and engineers with an indispensable guide on how to apply wider perspectives to the different technological and conceptual requirements of a smarter power system. - Includes concepts regarding conceptual and technological needs and investment planning suggestions for smart grid enabling strategies - Contains new electric power system operational concepts required by industry, along with R&D studies addressing new solutions to potential operational problems - Covers pathways to smarter power systems from successful existing examples to expected short, medium and long-term possibilities
The Power of Change
Author: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309371422
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 341
Book Description
Electricity, supplied reliably and affordably, is foundational to the U.S. economy and is utterly indispensable to modern society. However, emissions resulting from many forms of electricity generation create environmental risks that could have significant negative economic, security, and human health consequences. Large-scale installation of cleaner power generation has been generally hampered because greener technologies are more expensive than the technologies that currently produce most of our power. Rather than trade affordability and reliability for low emissions, is there a way to balance all three? The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies considers how to speed up innovations that would dramatically improve the performance and lower the cost of currently available technologies while also developing new advanced cleaner energy technologies. According to this report, there is an opportunity for the United States to continue to lead in the pursuit of increasingly clean, more efficient electricity through innovation in advanced technologies. The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies makes the case that America's advantagesâ€"world-class universities and national laboratories, a vibrant private sector, and innovative states, cities, and regions that are free to experiment with a variety of public policy approachesâ€"position the United States to create and lead a new clean energy revolution. This study focuses on five paths to accelerate the market adoption of increasing clean energy and efficiency technologies: (1) expanding the portfolio of cleaner energy technology options; (2) leveraging the advantages of energy efficiency; (3) facilitating the development of increasing clean technologies, including renewables, nuclear, and cleaner fossil; (4) improving the existing technologies, systems, and infrastructure; and (5) leveling the playing field for cleaner energy technologies. The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies is a call for leadership to transform the United States energy sector in order to both mitigate the risks of greenhouse gas and other pollutants and to spur future economic growth. This study's focus on science, technology, and economic policy makes it a valuable resource to guide support that produces innovation to meet energy challenges now and for the future.
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309371422
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 341
Book Description
Electricity, supplied reliably and affordably, is foundational to the U.S. economy and is utterly indispensable to modern society. However, emissions resulting from many forms of electricity generation create environmental risks that could have significant negative economic, security, and human health consequences. Large-scale installation of cleaner power generation has been generally hampered because greener technologies are more expensive than the technologies that currently produce most of our power. Rather than trade affordability and reliability for low emissions, is there a way to balance all three? The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies considers how to speed up innovations that would dramatically improve the performance and lower the cost of currently available technologies while also developing new advanced cleaner energy technologies. According to this report, there is an opportunity for the United States to continue to lead in the pursuit of increasingly clean, more efficient electricity through innovation in advanced technologies. The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies makes the case that America's advantagesâ€"world-class universities and national laboratories, a vibrant private sector, and innovative states, cities, and regions that are free to experiment with a variety of public policy approachesâ€"position the United States to create and lead a new clean energy revolution. This study focuses on five paths to accelerate the market adoption of increasing clean energy and efficiency technologies: (1) expanding the portfolio of cleaner energy technology options; (2) leveraging the advantages of energy efficiency; (3) facilitating the development of increasing clean technologies, including renewables, nuclear, and cleaner fossil; (4) improving the existing technologies, systems, and infrastructure; and (5) leveling the playing field for cleaner energy technologies. The Power of Change: Innovation for Development and Deployment of Increasingly Clean Energy Technologies is a call for leadership to transform the United States energy sector in order to both mitigate the risks of greenhouse gas and other pollutants and to spur future economic growth. This study's focus on science, technology, and economic policy makes it a valuable resource to guide support that produces innovation to meet energy challenges now and for the future.
Integration of Green and Renewable Energy in Electric Power Systems
Author: Ali Keyhani
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 9780470556764
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 328
Book Description
A practical, application-oriented text that presents analytical results for the better modeling and control of power converters in the integration of green energy in electric power systems The combined technology of power semiconductor switching devices, pulse width modulation algorithms, and control theories are being further developed along with the performance improvement of power semiconductors and microprocessors so that more efficient, reliable, and cheaper electric energy conversion can be achieved within the next decade. Integration of Green and Renewable Energy in Electric Power Systems covers the principles, analysis, and synthesis of closed loop control of pulse width modulated converters in power electronics systems, with special application emphasis on distributed generation systems and uninterruptible power supplies. The authors present two versions of a documented simulation test bed for homework problems and projects based on Matlab/Simulink, designed to help readers understand the content through simulations. The first consists of a number of problems and projects for classroom teaching convenience and learning. The second is based on the most recent work in control of power converters for the research of practicing engineers and industry researchers. Addresses a combination of the latest developments in control technology of pulse width modulation algorithms and digital control methods Problems and projects have detailed mathematical modeling, control design, solution steps, and results Uses a significant number of tables, circuit and block diagrams, and waveform plots with well-designed, class-tested problems/solutions and projects designed for the best teaching-learning interaction Provides computer simulation programs as examples for ease of understanding and platforms for the projects Covering major power-conversion applications that help professionals from a variety of industries, Integration of Green and Renewable Energy in Electric Power Systems provides practical, application-oriented system analysis and synthesis that is instructional and inspiring for practicing electrical engineers and researchers as well as undergraduate and graduate students.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 9780470556764
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 328
Book Description
A practical, application-oriented text that presents analytical results for the better modeling and control of power converters in the integration of green energy in electric power systems The combined technology of power semiconductor switching devices, pulse width modulation algorithms, and control theories are being further developed along with the performance improvement of power semiconductors and microprocessors so that more efficient, reliable, and cheaper electric energy conversion can be achieved within the next decade. Integration of Green and Renewable Energy in Electric Power Systems covers the principles, analysis, and synthesis of closed loop control of pulse width modulated converters in power electronics systems, with special application emphasis on distributed generation systems and uninterruptible power supplies. The authors present two versions of a documented simulation test bed for homework problems and projects based on Matlab/Simulink, designed to help readers understand the content through simulations. The first consists of a number of problems and projects for classroom teaching convenience and learning. The second is based on the most recent work in control of power converters for the research of practicing engineers and industry researchers. Addresses a combination of the latest developments in control technology of pulse width modulation algorithms and digital control methods Problems and projects have detailed mathematical modeling, control design, solution steps, and results Uses a significant number of tables, circuit and block diagrams, and waveform plots with well-designed, class-tested problems/solutions and projects designed for the best teaching-learning interaction Provides computer simulation programs as examples for ease of understanding and platforms for the projects Covering major power-conversion applications that help professionals from a variety of industries, Integration of Green and Renewable Energy in Electric Power Systems provides practical, application-oriented system analysis and synthesis that is instructional and inspiring for practicing electrical engineers and researchers as well as undergraduate and graduate students.
Neural Control of Renewable Electrical Power Systems
Author: Edgar N. Sánchez
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9783030474423
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 206
Book Description
This book presents advanced control techniques that use neural networks to deal with grid disturbances in the context renewable energy sources, and to enhance low-voltage ride-through capacity, which is a vital in terms of ensuring that the integration of distributed energy resources into the electrical power network. It presents modern control algorithms based on neural identification for different renewable energy sources, such as wind power, which uses doubly-fed induction generators, solar power, and battery banks for storage. It then discusses the use of the proposed controllers to track doubly-fed induction generator dynamics references: DC voltage, grid power factor, and stator active and reactive power, and the use of simulations to validate their performance. Further, it addresses methods of testing low-voltage ride-through capacity enhancement in the presence of grid disturbances, as well as the experimental validation of the controllers under both normal and abnormal grid conditions. The book then describes how the proposed control schemes are extended to control a grid-connected microgrid, and the use of an IEEE 9-bus system to evaluate their performance and response in the presence of grid disturbances. Lastly, it examines the real-time simulation of the entire system under normal and abnormal conditions using an Opal-RT simulator.
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9783030474423
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 206
Book Description
This book presents advanced control techniques that use neural networks to deal with grid disturbances in the context renewable energy sources, and to enhance low-voltage ride-through capacity, which is a vital in terms of ensuring that the integration of distributed energy resources into the electrical power network. It presents modern control algorithms based on neural identification for different renewable energy sources, such as wind power, which uses doubly-fed induction generators, solar power, and battery banks for storage. It then discusses the use of the proposed controllers to track doubly-fed induction generator dynamics references: DC voltage, grid power factor, and stator active and reactive power, and the use of simulations to validate their performance. Further, it addresses methods of testing low-voltage ride-through capacity enhancement in the presence of grid disturbances, as well as the experimental validation of the controllers under both normal and abnormal grid conditions. The book then describes how the proposed control schemes are extended to control a grid-connected microgrid, and the use of an IEEE 9-bus system to evaluate their performance and response in the presence of grid disturbances. Lastly, it examines the real-time simulation of the entire system under normal and abnormal conditions using an Opal-RT simulator.
Power Electronics for Renewable and Distributed Energy Systems
Author: Sudipta Chakraborty
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1447151046
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 612
Book Description
While most books approach power electronics and renewable energy as two separate subjects, Power Electronics for Renewable and Distributed Energy Systems takes an integrative approach; discussing power electronic converters topologies, controls and integration that are specific to the renewable and distributed energy system applications. An overview of power electronic technologies is followed by the introduction of various renewable and distributed energy resources that includes photovoltaics, wind, small hydroelectric, fuel cells, microturbines and variable speed generation. Energy storage systems such as battery and fast response storage systems are discussed along with application-specific examples. After setting forth the fundamentals, the chapters focus on more complex topics such as modular power electronics, microgrids and smart grids for integrating renewable and distributed energy. Emerging topics such as advanced electric vehicles and distributed control paradigm for power system control are discussed in the last two chapters. With contributions from subject matter experts, the diagrams and detailed examples provided in each chapter make Power Electronics for Renewable and Distributed Energy Systems a sourcebook for electrical engineers and consultants working to deploy various renewable and distributed energy systems and can serve as a comprehensive guide for the upper-level undergraduates and graduate students across the globe.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1447151046
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 612
Book Description
While most books approach power electronics and renewable energy as two separate subjects, Power Electronics for Renewable and Distributed Energy Systems takes an integrative approach; discussing power electronic converters topologies, controls and integration that are specific to the renewable and distributed energy system applications. An overview of power electronic technologies is followed by the introduction of various renewable and distributed energy resources that includes photovoltaics, wind, small hydroelectric, fuel cells, microturbines and variable speed generation. Energy storage systems such as battery and fast response storage systems are discussed along with application-specific examples. After setting forth the fundamentals, the chapters focus on more complex topics such as modular power electronics, microgrids and smart grids for integrating renewable and distributed energy. Emerging topics such as advanced electric vehicles and distributed control paradigm for power system control are discussed in the last two chapters. With contributions from subject matter experts, the diagrams and detailed examples provided in each chapter make Power Electronics for Renewable and Distributed Energy Systems a sourcebook for electrical engineers and consultants working to deploy various renewable and distributed energy systems and can serve as a comprehensive guide for the upper-level undergraduates and graduate students across the globe.
Terrorism and the Electric Power Delivery System
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309114047
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 165
Book Description
The electric power delivery system that carries electricity from large central generators to customers could be severely damaged by a small number of well-informed attackers. The system is inherently vulnerable because transmission lines may span hundreds of miles, and many key facilities are unguarded. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the fact that the power grid, most of which was originally designed to meet the needs of individual vertically integrated utilities, is being used to move power between regions to support the needs of competitive markets for power generation. Primarily because of ambiguities introduced as a result of recent restricting the of the industry and cost pressures from consumers and regulators, investment to strengthen and upgrade the grid has lagged, with the result that many parts of the bulk high-voltage system are heavily stressed. Electric systems are not designed to withstand or quickly recover from damage inflicted simultaneously on multiple components. Such an attack could be carried out by knowledgeable attackers with little risk of detection or interdiction. Further well-planned and coordinated attacks by terrorists could leave the electric power system in a large region of the country at least partially disabled for a very long time. Although there are many examples of terrorist and military attacks on power systems elsewhere in the world, at the time of this study international terrorists have shown limited interest in attacking the U.S. power grid. However, that should not be a basis for complacency. Because all parts of the economy, as well as human health and welfare, depend on electricity, the results could be devastating. Terrorism and the Electric Power Delivery System focuses on measures that could make the power delivery system less vulnerable to attacks, restore power faster after an attack, and make critical services less vulnerable while the delivery of conventional electric power has been disrupted.
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309114047
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 165
Book Description
The electric power delivery system that carries electricity from large central generators to customers could be severely damaged by a small number of well-informed attackers. The system is inherently vulnerable because transmission lines may span hundreds of miles, and many key facilities are unguarded. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the fact that the power grid, most of which was originally designed to meet the needs of individual vertically integrated utilities, is being used to move power between regions to support the needs of competitive markets for power generation. Primarily because of ambiguities introduced as a result of recent restricting the of the industry and cost pressures from consumers and regulators, investment to strengthen and upgrade the grid has lagged, with the result that many parts of the bulk high-voltage system are heavily stressed. Electric systems are not designed to withstand or quickly recover from damage inflicted simultaneously on multiple components. Such an attack could be carried out by knowledgeable attackers with little risk of detection or interdiction. Further well-planned and coordinated attacks by terrorists could leave the electric power system in a large region of the country at least partially disabled for a very long time. Although there are many examples of terrorist and military attacks on power systems elsewhere in the world, at the time of this study international terrorists have shown limited interest in attacking the U.S. power grid. However, that should not be a basis for complacency. Because all parts of the economy, as well as human health and welfare, depend on electricity, the results could be devastating. Terrorism and the Electric Power Delivery System focuses on measures that could make the power delivery system less vulnerable to attacks, restore power faster after an attack, and make critical services less vulnerable while the delivery of conventional electric power has been disrupted.