W6. Statistical physics methods for power grids

Workshop organized by:
G. Odor and C. Beck

With the power sector undergoing huge changes, the modelling of power grids has become a focus point for researchers in the fields of statistical physics as well. The hierarchical modular structure of these networks, their heterogeneity and their size make them a perfect candidate for complex system analysis. The shift from traditional fuels to large scale utilization of renewable energy sources poses a number of challenges in regards of robustness and resilience of power systems, mainly due to the appearing correlated spatio-temporal fluctuations. Sudden changes (e.g. intermittent production, load ramps, outages) may start desynchronization cascades, which would propagate through the whole synchronously operated system as an avalanche.
The workshop aims to gather experimental and theoretical experts to advance the comprehension and to discuss further the recent challenging topics on power-grid related research. The aim is to foster the community towards new applications and technological advancements.


Invited speakers

Jurgen Kurths (PIK Potsdam, Germany)

Hildegard Meyer-Ortmanns (Bremen, Germany)

Adilson E Motter (Northwestern University, US)