This paper elaborates a new protection scheme based on dual-setting DOCRs for automated distribution networks. In this course, the reduction in relays operation time saturates as the number of these relays increases. Thus, optimal deployment of dual-setting DOCRs should be specified in an efficient manner. To do so, a multiobjective optimization approach is established, which compromises the reduction of total operation time and the number of dual-setting DOCRs. Coordination constraints are accommodated and nonstandard inverse-time characteristics are established to intensify flexibility of the proposed strategy. The proposed model lies within a nonlinear programming fashion, which is tackled by particle swarm optimization. Moreover, the augmented ε-constraint approach is utilized to reach the Pareto-optimal solutions following which the fuzzy decision making process determines the best compromised solution. Detailed simulation studies are carried out to interrogate performance of the proposed approach.

This paper presents the application of cybersecurity to the operation and control of distributed electric power systems. In particular, the paper emphasizes the role of cybersecurity in the operation of microgrids and analyzes the dependencies of microgrid control and operation on information and communication technologies for cybersecurity. The paper discusses common cyber vulnerabilities in distributed electric power systems and presents the implications of cyber incidents on physical processes in microgrids. The paper examines the impacts of potential risks attributed to cyberattacks on microgrids and presents the affordable technologies for mitigating such risks. In addition, the paper presents a minimax-regret approach for minimizing the impending risks in managing microgrids. The paper also presents the opportunities provided by software-defined networking technologies to enhance the security of microgrid operations. It is concluded that cybersecurity could play a significant role in managing microgrid operations as microgrids strive for a higher degree of resilience as they supply power services to customers.

This paper focuses on the role of networked microgrids as distributed systems for enhancing the power system resilience against extreme events. Resilience is an intrinsically complex property which requires deep understanding of microgrid operation in order to respond effectively in emergency conditions. The paper first introduces the definition and offers a generic framework for analyzing the power system resilience. The notion that large power systems can achieve a higher level of resilience through the deployment of networked microgrids is discussed in detail. In particular, the management of networked microgrids for riding through extreme events is analyzed. In addition, the merits of advanced information and communication technologies (ICTs) in microgrid-based distributed systems that can support the power system resilience are presented. The paper also points out the challenges for expanding the role of distributed systems and concludes that networked microgrids in particular provide a universal solution for improving the resilience against extreme events in Smart Cities.