Topology and Cascade in Power Transmission Network of India

Abstract

The size and complexity of power transmission networks make them good candidates for study using the framework of the complex networks. The topological properties of any network in uence the dynamics and stability of the system and vice-versa. The heterogeneity of power transmission network makes it vulnerable to intentional attacks. In this thesis, we use the complex network approach to analyse the topological characteristics of the Indian power transmission network using data generated from power map of India. We compare the topology of Indian power transmission network with that of random graphs of similar sizes. We address the possible consequences of node removal due to random failure or targetted attacks and study the vulnerability and extent of connectivity loss that can happen in both cases. Then we study the process of cascade due to these attacks in the network. Adopting the local preferential redistribution rule of an overloaded node, we investigate the e ect of the failure of nodes with high as well as low loads. We nd nodes with low loads are more threatening to the network for strength parameter > 0.5. The results of our study are highly relevant to address the strategies required to prevent attacks or stop the spread of cascades in the power transmission network of India. xi