CIPRNet Decision Support System: Modelling Electrical Distribution Grid Internal Dependencies

In this work, we present a peculiar application contained in a Decision Support System for Risk Analysis of (inter)dependent Critical Infrastructures under development within the EU FP7 CIPRNet Project. The application shows the efficacy and the benefits derived from a complete information of the multiple (inter)connected infrastructures (electrical and telecommunication) present in a Crisis Scenario. Electrical Distribution operators use SCADA systems to perform remote operations (tele-control) on the electrical grid such to ensure a constant and efficient energy supply to the consumers. Tele-control operations bi-directionally couple telecommunication and electrical networks: faults in one network produce effects, which then reverberate on the other. The work shows how the DSS, based on the damage estimate occurring on the two systems, may predict the correct tele-control operations needed for the restoring of the electrical grid based on topological properties of the electrical substations and the Telecom nodes.