The cybersecurity of critical infrastructures, such as electric power systems, is an important and challenging issue due to the growing concern over cyber attacks targeted toward these infrastructures. Conventional information security solutions cannot be easily adapted to the context of power systems due to the complex interdependency between information networks and power networks. In this regard, the researchers at Iowa State University (ISU) have undertaken a comprehensive research program, funded by both the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Electric Power Research Center (EPRC), to address various research issues pertaining to the cyber physical security of smart grid. This includes: quantitative methodology for cyber risk modeling and mitigation, attack-resilient monitoring, protection, and control algorithms, test-bed development and attack-defense evaluation studies. This is a synergistic collaboration involving researchers from power systems, cyber security, and our industrial partners.

Research Highlights

The goal of PowerCyber is to achieve the following R&D tasks:

1. To develop a comprehensive understanding of the security vulnerabilities in SCADA systems used in electric power grid, existing defense strategies and best practices, and emerging standards;

2. To develop realistic models for security attacks and their impact on power grid operation, and also develop models for defense mechanisms and associated analysis framework;

3. Develop software tools incorporating the models and analysis framework to secure electric power infrastructure.

4. Built the PowerCyber testbed environment wherein attack and defense strategies can be created for custom needs and evaluated. These tasks has been accomplished in consultation with industry partners in the form of better understanding of the existing practices, the needs, seeking feedback on the solutions, and participation in professional conferences/workshops.