Smart Grids as Cyber Physical Systems

What makes a regular electric grid a “smart” grid? It basically comes down to digital technologies that enable two-way communication between a utility and its customers, as opposed to the traditional electric grid, where power flows in one direction.  Based on statistics and available research, smart grids globally attract the largest investment venues in smart cities. Smart grids and city buildings that are connected in smart cities contribute to significant financial savings and contribute to improve the economy. The smart grid has a multitude of components, including controls, computers, automation, and new technologies and equipment working together.  These technologies work in conjunction with the electrical grid to respond digitally to our quickly changing electric demand.  The investment in smart grid technology also has certain challenges. The interconnected feature of smart grids is valuable, but it tremendously increases their susceptibility to threats. It is crucial to make sure that smart grids are made secure wherein number of technologies are employed to increase the real-time situational awareness and the ability to support renewables and system automation to increase the reliability, efficiency and safety of the electric grid.  This exciting new volume covers all of these technologies, including the basic concepts and the problems and solutions involved with the practical applications in the real world. Whether for the veteran engineer or scientist, the student, or a manager or other technician working in the field, this volume is a must-have for any library.