AI-based cybersecurity assessment for renewable-integrated smart grid SCADA systems

With the increasing reliance on microgrids as flexible and sustainable solutions for energy distribution, securing decentralized electricity grids requires robust cybersecurity strategies tailored to microgrid-specific vulnerabilities. The research paper focuses on enhancing detection capabilities and response times against coordinated cyber threats in the smart grid by implementing advanced technologies, thereby supporting decentralized operations while maintaining robust system performance under attack. The proposed system integrates wind turbines and solar panels within an intelligent control and monitoring environment to provide a continuous, efficient power supply. A real-world CPS testbed was used to simulate the smart grid environment and analyse the impact of cyberattacks in real-time. Four main communication protocols, SSH, Telnet, HTTP, and HTTPS, were tested to assess their performance and security in the SCADA environment. Several types of cyberattacks were carried out, including Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks, Telnet attacks, and Modbus/TCP attacks. The results showed that secure protocols, such as SSH and HTTPS, provide greater protection against attacks; however, they may impact response time compared to insecure protocols. The proposed system achieved a 25% improvement in detection speed and a 20% reduction in false alarms compared to conventional methods.