In this paper we have proposed an approach for vulnerability analysis of a class of cyber-physical reconfiguration attacks called coordinated variable structure switching. In such an attack, an opponent who gains control over a target circuit breaker, relay or switch can apply a given switching sequence to destabilize the system even if the system is stable in static switch positions. Our analysis approach is illustrated through a case study of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council 3-machine, 9-bus system. MATLAB and PSCAD® simulations are employed to validate the approach. Moreover the insights gained from the vulnerability analysis of the WECC system are consistent with intuition. This paper presents a dynamic pricing concept that can be applied to hybrid electric power mini-grid systems to enable affordability of energy in these systems setup for the supply of energy to rural consumers. A location was identified in Eastern Uganda, resource assessment done, and a proposed hybrid electric power mini-grid system designed to supply electricity to this rural location. A theoretical deterministic demand profile was generated, and with it different supply configurations of the system were simulated to meet the daily load. The fluctuations in the demand and supply triggered a change in the cost of generating energy, due to the variations in the contributing electricity generating sources. Through communication, an intelligently designed and operated time-varying pricing scheme can be an effective tool for influencing the actions of price-responsive end-users such as rural consumers. A software program was used to simulate the hourly demand, supply, and corresponding cost of energy variations. This pricing model could potentially contribute to the ongoing search for the provision of affordable rural energy services.
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