Modeling, simulation, and mitigation of the impacts of the late time (E3) high-altitude electromagnetic pulse on power systems

High impact, low frequency (HILF) events are a growing concern in civilian and military domains. Two HILF events of concern are geomagnetic disturbances (GMDs), also known as geomagnetic storms, and high-altitude electromagnetic pulses (HEMPs). These two events have the potential to cripple electric grids and damage electronics. The study of HEMPs and their effects on the electric grid have often been associated with the effects of GMDs. The quicker rise-times and larger magnitudes of electric fields induced by HEMPs, as compared to GMDs, can significantly impact the large disturbance voltage stability of the power system. This dissertation presents a methodology for integrating HEMP impacts into power system transient stability assessments. The beginning simulations of this dissertation use relatively simple models to model the dynamics in the power system. As the dissertation progresses, more detailed and accurate models are incorporated in order to capture the most realistic response as possible. Various test cases were created in order to simulate the effects of HEMP on power systems as a part of this research. The research and transient stability studies performed in this dissertation indicate that second to minute long dynamics are crucial when simulating the impacts of HEMPs on power systems in order to gain an accurate understanding of the impacts. This research created and determined power system models appropriate for HEMP analysis, and ultimately serves to inform power system engineers about what models are most suitable in use for HEMP analysis on the electric grid.