Cyber Resilience Strategies for Virtual Power Plants
vor 4 Wochen
The integration of renewable energy sources and decentralized energy resources (DER) into the power grid is giving rise to an increasing number of Virtual Power Plants (VPP). These VPPs comprise networks of decentralized power generation units, adaptable power consumers, and storage systems that are aggregated and managed as a cohesive entity to deliver energy to the grid or specific users. In this context, utilities and VPP operators depend on extensive communication networks to remotely manage various DER, including renewable energy facilities, battery storage systems, and inverter-coupled devices like electric vehicles and heat pumps, while also coordinating with one another.
The primary adversary in cyber resilience is the Advanced Persistent Threat (APT). A key principle of cyber resilience engineering is the acceptance of the premise that the adversary has infiltrated the system and maintains a persistent presence. The conceptual goal is to ensure mission continuity despite the challenges posed by the APT. While deception technology and adversary engagement are included in the constructs of NIST SP v2r1, their practical application in decentralized Cyber-physical Systems, such as VPPs, remains largely unexplored, particularly due to the complexities involved in predicting system behavior under various conditions within critical infrastructure systems.
Additionally, with the average lifespan of VPP components extending over a decade, the current and anticipated computational capabilities of components, subsystems, or the VPP as a whole are limited, complicating the integration of deception technology. Nevertheless, the strategic asymmetric advantage offered by deception technology may outweigh potential trade-offs; this concept is critically examined through this research proposal.
We seek motivated students interested in undertaking a challenging master's thesis focused on the cyber resilience of Virtual Power Plants (VPP). This research will emphasize the development and assessment of deception technology specifically designed to meet the requirements of a VPP.
Responsibilities
Potential tasks may include:
- Task 1: Systematic Literature Review on Deception Technology: Conduct a thorough literature review to identify existing methods, solutions, and implementation strategies of deception technology in Virtual Power Plants, aligning with the goals of cyber resilience.
- Task 2: Evaluation of Deception Technology Tools: Investigate and assess the current state of deception technology tools and frameworks, such as Artillery, Open Canary, and Web Bug Server, as well as frameworks like the Harbringer distribution and prototypes like the AHEAD pod prototype. Analyze the synergies and conflicts of deception technology within the context of the Virtual Power Plant as a Complex System.
- Task 3: Design and Implementation of a Cyber-resilience Strategy: Based on findings from Tasks 1 and 2, create a cyber-resilience maneuvering strategy that may involve Non-persistence, exploring the Game-Theoretic aspects of optimal deception technology usage, particularly regarding diminishing returns, and implement the strategy in a simulation environment.
- Task 4: Evaluation: Assess the usefulness, effectiveness, and usability of the developed strategy. Analyze the results of the evaluation studies and provide well-founded recommendations for further development and optimization of deception technology in the context of Virtual Power Plants, considering technical improvements to enhance cyber resilience.
Qualifications
- Enrollment in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Interest in contemporary developments in cyber resilience.
- Knowledge in energy systems and software development is advantageous.
- Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, including Cybersecurity Engineering, Human Factors in Security and Privacy, and Usable Security and Privacy.
- A strong sense of initiative and teamwork.
- Proficiency in German or English.
What We Offer
- Professional guidance and collaboration within a dedicated team.
- Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies.
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft plays a pivotal role in the innovation process by focusing on future-relevant key technologies and the application of results in business and industry. It acts as a guide and catalyst for innovative developments and scientific excellence, contributing to the shaping of our society and future.
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