Current progress and boundaries
Power systems use automated monitoring and optimization tools, but extreme events can simultaneously affect communications, equipment, roads, and staff deployment.
Why it remains difficult
The grid is high-risk critical infrastructure and its state estimates are uncertain. Incorrect controls can widen outages, and cybersecurity is essential.
Paths worth exploring
Evaluate options first in digital simulations and replays of historical events. Have the system present multiple recovery plans and explain constraints for approval by authorized dispatchers.
How to evaluate success
Test energy not served, restoration time, compliance with plan constraints, robustness in extreme scenarios, and successful human takeovers, with an independent safety review.