1. Introduction
The power system providers are quite conservative by the introduction of the technologies because of very high requirements concerning the safe and reliable delivery of electric energy. The new hardware and software application must be also extremely reliable before implementing in to the power system operation.
The application of artificial intelligence algorithms in the power systems was an intensively discussed topic since 70 and 80. 1986 the CIGRE established a working Group 38.06 Expert System in Power System which could be fixed as the start for first applications in scope of the international cooperation in this field [
1]. Today applications of AI have gained a new dimension and perspective. On the one hand, through advancing computer hardware, computational technology, and the technologies for processing of large datasets like Big Data. On the other hand, the complexity of planning and operation of modern, decentralized power systems (especially with high generation from renewable sources) requires new, fast, intelligent and adaptive operation algorithms, also based on continuously measured real data. This evolutionary process is substantiated by older sources that highlight the longstanding existence of AI methods [
2,
3].
The machine learning (ML) used extensively last years is often associated with AI (artificial intelligence) and lot of such algorithms has already been successfully implemented not only in the energy system. AI and ML can also be found in other economic sectors. For example, it is used in medicine to diagnose diseases, in finance to analyse markets, in the automotive industry for autonomous driving and even in agriculture to optimize crop yields [
4]. In the energy sector, AI is systematically used to improve the flexibility of the power grid, maximize transmission efficiency, optimize communication protocols and control distribution networks. Applications such as neural networks and fuzzy logic are used to recognize complex patterns in the data and make predictions about energy consumption and grid stability [
5].
This paper therefore aims to provide 4 application examples for the use of AI in the electric power system. A distinction is made here with regard to the area of application in combination with a suitable ML method.
Following the decentralisation and digitalisation of the power grid, the current trend in research is to use data to improve electricity transmission, distribution and make it more reliable and efficient. This data (measurement) includes consumption data collected by electricity meters at various consumption points such as households, businesses or industrial plants. Generation data, on the other hand, records the amount of energy from power plants, solar and wind installations, typically via monitoring systems or SCADA systems. Grid data, such as voltage, current and phase angle, is collected by sensors and monitoring devices in the electricity grid. Market data, including electricity prices and demand forecasts, comes from market platforms or specialized data providers. Planning data, on the other hand, includes load and generation forecasts that estimate future electricity consumption and energy generation based on historical data and weather forecasts. Grid capacity planning documents contain information on planned expansion projects and infrastructure changes in the electricity grid. Market analyses, in turn, provide insights into future market conditions and price developments in the electricity sector. Smart grids are an application area that not only transmits electricity, but also realizes data transfer between different actuators. For example, data can be exchanged between electrical generation and load units as well as directly with a control system [
5,
6,
7]. The data originating from smart grids consists of information management, control technologies, digital sensing, communication technologies and field devices used to coordinate multiple electrical processes. Since conventional modelling techniques have significant limitations in calculating such amounts of data, the use of AI algorithms is becoming increasingly obvious [
4,
8,
9]. The increasing significance of AI goes hand in hand with the availability of cost-effective computers. This is relevant for several reasons: Firstly, AI algorithms, particularly in the realm of machine learning and neural networks, demand substantial computational power. Thanks to affordable hardware and cloud computing, it is now possible to scale these resources affordably, facilitating the implementation of AI solutions across various application domains. Secondly, accessible technology lowers entry barriers, enabling businesses and developers to embrace AI more readily and promoting its widespread use in diverse industries. Thirdly, the availability of cost-effective computers fosters research and innovation in the field of AI. Developers can conduct experimental projects, explore new models, and contribute to the continuous development and enhancement of AI technology [
10]. The most essential prerequisite for the increased use of AI throughout power systems is the digitisation of the energy sector, as well as the availability of the necessary large data sets which could be fast analysed from different point of view [
11]. This all is necessary because of increased system dynamics e.g. throw higher integration of renewable energies, higher load flexibility and fast response storage integrations. By analysing and evaluating the large data sets, the processes in the energy industry can be made more sustainable and secure. Some of the challenges that can be derived from this for an intelligent power grid are the forecasting of load profiles, the evaluation of the stability of the power grid, fault detection and grid security. These challenges can be addressed through multi-dimensional and multi-layered data collection about the operation of the power grid. However, traditional technologies such as modelling, optimisation and control technologies can only solve these challenges to a limited extent. Therefore, the use of AI methods in the electric power grid is becoming more justified. AI techniques use vast amounts of data to create intelligent machines that can handle tasks that require human intelligence. However, ML is not only one way to implement AI systems. Other possibilities of AI systems include neural networks [
12], robotics, expert systems (ES), fuzzy logic (FL) [
13] and natural language processing [
14]. Overall, AI technologies enable fast and accurate decision making due to processing large amounts of structured and unstructured data. In smart grids applications, AI can be defined as computers mimicking the cognitive functions of grid operators to achieve self-healing capabilities. However, AI cannot replace the grid operator in some cases, as it is presented in [
11].
The subdivision of AI in the power grid can be of two types: virtual AI and physical AI. Virtual AI systems include informatics that assist grid operators in performing their tasks. Physical AI systems include self-learning AI systems that can optimise and control specific grid part with or without human intervention. AI systems in the smart grid can be divided into two categories: artificial narrow intelligence (ANI) and artificial general intelligence (AGI) [
11]. ANI refers to AI systems developed for specific tasks with specific requirements and constraints, such as an AI system that performs load forecasting based on different data sets. AGI refers to AI systems that have been developed to learn and develop autonomously [
11]. AGI can therefore learn and develop independently just like humans [
11]. The development of AGI systems could help realise true smart grid systems in the future. The amount of AI research for smart grid applications has increased in the last decade [
11].
The aim of the paper is to present current machine learning technologies in the various fields of application of the electric power system. The aim is to show the state of the art of the technologies.
Section 2 describes potential application areas for artificial intelligence in the power system, considering the power grid, energy market, energy consumers. In
Section 3 the ML methods are classified in the systematic way that can be useful to feeding the optimal setting of AI algorithms. In
Section 4 based on specific use cases the implementation AI methods, for four important power system areas: forecasting, grid stability, fault detection, smart grid security is discussed.
Section 5 compares the methodologies presented and summarizes them.
2. Application Potential
The power system can be divided, traditionally, into four areas for each the potential topics for the use of artificial intelligence methods can be selected, which are visualised in
Figure 1. AI in the power grid operation control considering also the sector coupling (monitoring, maintenance, optimal operation, etc.), AI in distribution grid operations (virtual power plants (VPP), distribution management system (DMS), etc.), in energy market trading (prices forecasting, trading control and supervising), and AI on the consumer side (energy management system (EMS), optimal operation, forecasting load profiles etc.) [
6].
More in detail the specified in
Figure 1 areas of power system are described below:
AI in the power grid operation control and sector coupling: Due to the transformation process of the power grid, the increasing share of renewable energies, controllable loads and electrical energy storage at the low and medium voltage level, as well as increasing digitalisation of the power grid, the operation and resulting management of grid stability has become more complex. In addition, there is a high volume of multi-layered data, which are necessary for operation of smart grid, that must be transported, evaluated and analysed. Results of this data analyses are reaction of control algorithms which should be intelligent and fast as well on consumption as feed-in side. Thus, AI can help analyse and control data by linking different participants (loads, generators and storage) as well as different sectors (electricity, heat, gas and transport). One of the focus here is on the integration of electric vehicles (EV) [
15]. During the time that they are connected to the charging station, they represent an electrical energy storage in the grid. The charging/ discharging processes must be coordinated with the smart grid needs. AI can help coordinate maintenance work and determine optimal scheduling from the networks as well es individual storage (EV) point of view. This can minimise costs and losses of profits as well as disruptions to grid operations [
16].
AI in distribution grid operations: Incorporating AI into distribution grid operations delivers a myriad of advantages, profoundly enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the electrical distribution system. AI addresses key areas such as predictive maintenance, swiftly detecting faults, optimizing grid operations in real-time, managing renewable energy integration, minimizing energy losses, bolstering grid resilience during extreme events, providing data-driven decision-making through analytics, improving load forecasting accuracy, enhancing cybersecurity, and enabling remote monitoring and control. This comprehensive integration of AI stands as a transformative approach to modernize and elevate the overall performance of the electrical distribution grid [
10].
Use of AI in energy market trading: This can help to optimise electricity trading by improving e.g. forecast of weather and energy price data. AI can help correlate large amounts of historical weather data with the current data of a location and thus systematically evaluate it. The optimised forecast data can increase grid stability and thus supply security. ML systems and neural networks (NN) are already in use for this application. The improvement in forecast quality has shown in recent years that the need for balancing energy has increased despite the growing share of volatile renewable generators in the grid. In the meantime, AI algorithms have become so sophisticated that they can trade independently. This is also called algorithmic trading, algo trading or automated trading.
Use of AI in energy consumer side: The consumers of the electrical grid (private households or industry) will also contribute to stabilisation in the power grid in the smart grid concept. These applications are already being implemented with smart meters and smart home automation solutions. For example, a smart home can react to price developments on the electricity market. This can be realized by means of demand-side management (DSM) & demand-side response (DSR). DSM refers to strategies, technologies, and actions aimed at managing and optimizing electricity demand in a power system. DSM aims to modulate end-user energy consumption to achieve a better match between supply and demand. This can be achieved through load shifting, peak load reduction, energy storage, consumption reduction at times of high demand (peak shaving), and similar approaches. DSM helps relieve congestion on the electric grid, can reduce the cost of electricity generation, and can facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. DSR refers to the ability of end users to actively match their electricity demand to available electricity generation. During periods of low electricity generation or high demand, consumers may be asked to reduce or defer their electricity use until a later time when more energy is available. DSR can be implemented by households, businesses, industries, and other electricity consumers. This flexibility helps keep the power grid stable, avoid congestion, and reduce the need for expensive peak generation. Both DSM and DSR are important approaches to energy efficiency and renewable energy integration [
17]. They help smooth the demand for energy and match demand to periods of low power supply, making the power system more sustainable and resilient. One example of this is air conditioners that increase their output when electricity is cheaply available on the grid. By analysing user data, user preferences and time windows can be automatically determined and taken into account [
18].
Another method for systematisation of use of AI methods in power system gives classifications matrix technique. With regard to the implementation of AI methods in the power system various fields of application can be identified. The basis for this is provided by the 5 criteria: (1) integration of renewable energy systems, (2) increase reliability in supply, (3) increase in system efficiency, (4) increase in acceptance and (5) participation in the energy transition [
19]. A classification of the fields of application can be made with regard to the energy industry value chain of generation, trade and consumption. In order to better illustrate this, the following
Figure 2 classifies the application areas in relation to the value chain in the matrix into 3 clusters. These clusters are the general decision-making basis, maintenance and safety, and sales & consumption services [
19].
The cluster "General decision bases" addresses various actors (e.g. producers, traders) who have to make investment decisions, increase the utilisation of the grid and opt for the forecasts of consumption and generation. For this purpose, the AI methods in this cluster primarily use general data analyses. Therefore, this cluster includes the following application areas [
19]:
The "Maintenance and Safety" cluster contributes to minimising downtime of power generation plants as well as the grid. In addition, the applications for ensuring safe plant operation were grouped. With regard to the value chain, the application fields of generation and transport are summarised here [
19]:
- 4.
Predictive maintenance.
- 5.
Maintenance, repair and dismantling.
- 6.
Security measures.
In the third cluster, the "Sales and Consumption Service", the services that serve to improve the customer relationship are summarised. Accordingly, they are assigned to consumption. This cluster therefore includes the following use cases [
19]:
- 7.
Simplified participation of active consumers.
- 8.
Individualisation of products and marketing measures.
- 9.
Process automation for measurements, billing and general sales business.
3. Overview of Methods
As shown in
Figure 3, artificial intelligence (AI) is the concept of developing machines that have human-like intelligence to solve complex tasks. Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI that uses algorithms to learn from data and recognize patterns without being explicitly programmed.
Within Machine Learning falls Deep Learning, which focuses on neural networks with many layers and can recognize complex patterns in large datasets. These techniques are applied in various fields, from image recognition and natural language processing to robotics and autonomous driving [
20]. Machine learning is an important branch of artificial intelligence. It focused on setting or adaptive setting of computer programs (also used AI methods) from stored or/and constantly improve real time data. In this paper, we will focus on machine learning as a sub-field of artificial intelligence, since it can be used to formalise the problems which could be solved in the power engineering. ML has experienced a rapid development in the last decades and has become a central field of artificial intelligence technology [
21]. This fascinating discipline, how mentioned already above, enables feeding in the computer programmes by the data from real (very often real-time) measurements for recognising of patterns (e.g. networks emergency states) and solve complex problems (suggest the emergency measure) without having to be explicitly programmed [
22]. Machine learning has a wide range of applications by recognizing such complex patterns in language or images and processing them in areas such as medicine and business process optimization. This chapter takes an in-depth look at machine learning and its various sub-groups. It presents the general view, methods and applications that have made this field a cornerstone of modern information technology. With a focus on the different subgroups of machine learning, the specific approaches and techniques used in each area are explained. In the following
Figure 4 we visualise a general overview of the methods of machine learning, without going into further groups [
23].
Furthermore, the methods can used different technique for learning (see
Figure 5). This can be classified in four sections as follows.
- (1)
This section focuses on learning, where the algorithm recognises patterns and structures on its own from the input data without being given any output. Clustering and dimension reduction are just some of the discussed topics [
21].
- (2)
This section deals with learning, from input / output data as long as the output error has been minimized. Examples of applications such as classification and regression are presented [
21].
- (3)
Reinforcement learning is another important subset of machine learning in which an agent performs actions in an environment and learns which actions are best through rewards or punishments. Applications in robotics and game strategies are highlighted [
24].
- (4)
The main idea behind ensemble learning is that the combination of several models can compensate for the errors and weaknesses of individual models, leading to better and more robust predictions. By combining different models, they can learn from each other and use their respective strengths [
25].
Overall, this comprehensive review provides a basic introduction to machine learning and a detailed insight into its diverse subsets. From the basics to advanced applications, machine learning is undoubtedly an important driver of technological advances and a source of countless innovative approaches [
11].
5. Discussion and Comparison
The four methods presented in this paper are now compared with regard to various quality characteristics. These characteristics provide information regarding their actuality and applicability. In particular, the data requirements, implementation effort, response time, applicability for grid applications, and security are compared with each other.
Example 1: Wind Generation Forecasting via Feedforward Neural Network (FFNN) and Convolutional Feedforward Neural Network (CFNN)
The system has moderate to high data requirements, making it suitable for applications with clear pattern recognition needs. In terms of implementation effort, it's relatively easy to implement, but meticulous parameter tuning is essential for optimal performance. Response time is fast, making it suitable for real-time applications such as load forecasting in the grid. Its applicability for grid applications is notable, particularly in pattern recognition and load forecasting tasks within the grid infrastructure. However, security is a concern as it may be vulnerable to attacks such as overfitting, necessitating robust security measures to safeguard its integrity.
Example 2: Smart Grid Security via WOA-ANN
The data requirements of this system depend on the complexity of the application, spanning from moderate to high, adapting to the specific demands of the task at hand. Implementation effort varies based on the network structure, presenting a variable landscape in terms of complexity and resources required. Response time fluctuates with network size but remains conducive to real-time applications, ensuring timely processing of data. Its applicability for grid applications is versatile, extending to tasks like load forecasting and fault detection, catering to the diverse needs of grid management. However, security remains a concern as the system is vulnerable to attacks, emphasizing the need for robust security measures to safeguard against potential threats and breaches.
Example 3: Grid stability - via Agent System
The data requirements for this system are contingent upon the complexity of the assigned tasks, adapting accordingly to the intricacies involved. Implementing the system proves to be complex, as it entails the orchestration of multiple autonomous agents working in tandem. Response time varies, contingent upon the level of coordination among agents, with optimal performance achieved through efficient collaboration. In terms of its applicability for grid applications, the system excels in cooperative tasks, particularly in network management and regulation, where coordinated efforts are paramount. While the system demonstrates robustness against failures of individual agents, it necessitates protection against unauthorized interference to maintain the integrity and security of grid operations.
Example 4: Grid protection - Fault detection via EL-SCOA
The data requirements for this system range from moderate to high, contingent upon the complexity of the learning tasks it undertakes. As for implementation effort, it's characterized as complex, necessitating the involvement of multiple autonomous agents. Response time varies, potentially being fast for specific applications. In terms of its suitability for grid applications, particularly in complex and dynamic grid environments, it shines, especially within adaptive control systems. Regarding security, the system exhibits greater resilience against failures of individual agents; however, it necessitates protection against unauthorized interference to maintain its integrity.
In conclusion, the choice of method depends on the specific requirements of the grid application. FFNN, CFNN, and ANN are versatile, while EL-SCOA and agent systems exceeds in complex, adaptive, and cooperative grid scenarios. Security aspects must be considered for all methods, as they exhibit varying vulnerabilities to different types of attacks.
In the following, the methods are compared with each other on the basis of 10 different performance attributes. A definition of the following attributes is as follows (
Table 5):
Architecture: Describes the structure of the neural network, including the number of layers and neurons in each layer.
Training time (hours): The time required to train the model.
Accuracy (%): The accuracy of the model in predicting or classifying data.
Robustness (%): The ability of the model to deal with disturbances or variations in the data without losing significant performance.
Specialization (%): The degree to which the model is optimized for specific tasks or data types.
Scalability (from 1-10): The ability of the model to adapt to different sizes of data or requirements without compromising performance.
Implementation complexity (from 1-10): The difficulty and complexity in implementing and maintaining the model.
Efficiency (from 1-10): The efficiency of the model in calculating and processing data.
Flexibility (from 1-10): The flexibility of the model to handle different types of data or problems.
Interpretability (from 1-10): The ability to understand and interpret the decisions and functioning of the model.
The summary of the comparison between CFNN & FFNN, WOA-ANN, Agent System and EL-SCOA shows that each method has its own strengths and weaknesses. CFNN, with its deeper architecture and higher accuracy, is particularly suitable for complex problems, while WOA-ANN, with fewer layers and easier implementation, is a good alternative when fewer computational resources are available. The agent system with EL-SCOA offers an adaptive solution that is particularly suitable for applications that require continuous adaptation and interaction with the environment. The choice of the optimal method depends on the specific requirements and resources of the problem, considering aspects such as training time, accuracy, robustness, specialization, scalability, implementation complexity, efficiency, flexibility and interpretability. Careful consideration of these factors makes it possible to choose the best possible method for a given task.
The agent system with EL-SCOA offers an interesting combination of agent-based intelligence and an improved learning algorithm. In terms of architecture, specific details are missing, but the adaptive features make it a promising solution for applications that require continuous adaptation and interaction with the environment. The evaluation of training time, accuracy, robustness, specialization and scalability remains undetermined in the
Table 5 (N/A), which means that further research or practical applications are needed to assess these aspects. The implementation complexity is also undetermined, but due to the agent-based nature and learning algorithm, it can be assumed that the implementation may be more complex than other approaches. Overall, the agent system with EL-SCOA provides a promising basis for the development of adaptive and adaptive systems, but it requires further investigation and experimentation to better understand and evaluate its performance in different application domains.
6. Summary and Outlook
The application of AI in the power system has been successfully established in recent years. As shown in this paper exemplary, it can be used in various application areas for different tasks. The use of AI can give benefits for planning and operation of power system in several ways. So, in the sector of power generation the AI algorithms can be used for supervise and optimise the operation of energy generation, reducing energy losses and emissions. Using of AI methods can also improve the safety and reliability of power generation plants by early detection and diagnostic plant failures. The use of AI can be used to predict energy demand and optimise the energy use from renewable sources such as wind and solar power. Predicting the load makes it possible to optimize the production of wind or solar power energy by using it as input for planning and control systems. By predicting the load, one can better estimate how much energy is needed and control the feed-in of wind or solar energy accordingly. In this way, the load can be accurately predicted, allowing the production of wind energy or solar energy to be better planned in order to balance out the fluctuations in the load and reduce the need for conventional energy resources. In this way, load forecasting contributes to optimizing the use of wind energy and helps to improve the efficiency of the entire energy system.
Another important application area of AI methods in power system is energy transmission and distribution. There, AI can optimise the management of energy transmission and distribution networks to reduce energy losses and improve the stability and reliability of the network. AI can be used to detect and diagnose faults in the network and optimise energy routing to minimise energy losses. Energy consumption: AI can optimise energy consumption in buildings and industrial processes to reduce energy costs and emissions. AI can be used to predict energy consumption patterns and adjust energy consumption accordingly. AI can also be used to optimise the performance of HVDC systems, lighting protection systems and other energy-consuming devices.
It can also be used to create holistic benefits for the energy sector. It can improve energy efficiency. AI can also reduce energy waste, leading to improved energy efficiency. Another benefit is the optimization of energy production and consumption, which leads to a reduction in carbon emissions and helps to mitigate climate change. It can also improve reliability and safety by detecting and diagnosing faults in power generation and transmission equipment, reducing the risk of equipment failure and improving the safety and reliability of energy systems. The use of AI can also increase the integration of renewable energies. For example, AI can help integrate renewable energy sources into the energy grid by optimising their production and consumption, leading to a more sustainable energy economy.
However, the use of AI in the energy sector also poses some challenges, which are briefly listed below.
- (1)
Data security and privacy: By the operation of power system large amounts of sensitive data, including customer data, operational data and network data has been collected. The use of machine learning requires extensive data sharing and access, making data security and protection a key challenge. Stringent security measures must be taken to prevent data breaches and misuse.
- (2)
Lack of high-quality data: AI methods require large amounts of high-quality data to develop accurate models. In some areas of the energy sector, especially new technologies or small utilities, data scarcity and quality can be a barrier to developing effective machine learning models.
- (3)
Complexity and interpretability: Advanced machine learning algorithms such as deep learning models are often very complex and difficult to interpret. This can lead to trust issues, especially when decisions are made based on machine learning without fully understanding the underlying processes.
- (4)
Robustness and reliability: In critical applications in the energy sector, such as grid control and monitoring, it is crucial that the applied machine learning models are robust and reliable. Disturbances, attacks or changes in environmental conditions could affect the performance of the models and lead to errors.
- (5)
Energy efficiency: Machine learning often requires powerful hardware resources, especially when using Deep Learning. Energy efficiency can be a challenge, especially when machine learning is used in embedded or resource-constrained systems.
- (6)
Costs and resources: Successful deployment of machine learning requires highly skilled personnel, adequate resources and financial investment. Small energy companies or start-ups may find it difficult to overcome these hurdles and benefit from the use of machine learning methods.
- (7)
Regulatory challenges: In some regions, regulatory hurdles could hamper the deployment of machine learning in the energy sector. Policies and regulations may need to be updated or adapted to enable the use of new technologies while ensuring safety and reliability.
In the future, AI and machine learning ML will play an even more significant role for the optimal development and operation of electrical power grids. This includes predictive maintenance of infrastructure elements, automatic detection and elimination of faults and dynamic adaptation to changing load profiles. ML-based models will help to improve the integration of renewable energy sources by enabling accurate forecasts for their feed-in. In addition, AI-based systems will play a key role in strengthening the cyber security of electrical grids by detecting threats in real time and taking countermeasures. In the long term, autonomous grids could emerge that can self-optimize and respond to unforeseen events, ensuring a more robust and reliable power supply.