On using energy storage systems in switching attacks that destabilize smart grid systems

A new class of switching attacks in smart grid systems is investigated in this work. The proposed attack relies on calculated switchings of a fast-acting energy storage system (ESS) in order to drive the system state variable of the target generator beyond the stability boundary. Based on understanding the structure of the power system, an adversary uses the swing equation to find the stability boundary of the target generator. In order to conduct a successful switching attack, the adversary intercepts the power system's measurements and switches the circuit breaker of the ESS back-and-forth depending on the value of system state variable. Numerical results show the effectiveness of the proposed switching attack when applied to the New England power system.