This first course consists of a ‘Getting Started’ module to introduce you to the platform, six modules of learning, and a final wrap-up week. This section goes through the contents of each of the modules allowing you to better integrate these modules within your own schedule. Below we have a brief overview of what to expect from each module.

Module 0: Getting Started

The course starts of with the Getting Started module, which will introduce you to this course. You will also get to know the moderators of the course .

Module 1: Modeling Smart Grids

In the first module, the concept of a Smart Grid is introduced and the key role it will play in the transition to a sustainable energy future is discussed. You will learn what a smart grid is is, what its various components are and how one can model such a complex system. Furthermore, the different approaches and tools to model a smart grid are highlighted, supported by some case studies.

Module 2: Optimal Power Flow (OPF)

In the second module, we will focus on the application of Optimal Power Flow (OPF) solutions to evaluate the performance of a power system with renewable energy sources. In this module, we attempt to answer you will be exposed to optimization problems and how they can be applied to power systems. Then, the modelling of uncertainties is dealt with. Lastly, we this module also goes into the concept of probabilistic analysis for a power system. In this module, the following terms may be used extensively: OPF and PPF. They refer to Optimal Power Flow and Probabilistic Power Flow respectively.

Module 3: Power System Dynamics

The third module delves into the area of power system dynamics, which is crucial to ensure system operation. Firstly, we learn to understand and classify types of power system stability phenomena. Then, we learn about the two major types of power system stability which are voltage and frequency stability, in depth. Last, but not least, and most importantly, the concepts of active power balance and frequency control are detailed within this module.

Module 4:  Automation networks

The fourth module of this MOOC provides an introduction to the fascinating world of automation networks in conjunction to the the smart grid. Firstly, we will learn about the different types of networks and their attributes, along with network protocols. Secondly, the ISO-OSI reference model for networks is introduced. Finally, industrial automation networks and their associated security is also discussed to conclude this module.

Module 5: Wide Area Monitoring Protection and Control (WAMPAC)

The penultimate module of this course covers the area of WAMPAC, which can in turn enable an safer and resilient power grid. In this module, you will learn about Energy Management Systems (EMS) and the concept of a digital substation. Further, advancements in synchronized measurement technology allowing for near-real time system monitoring are also introduced. This module ends with discussion of cyber security in an EMS, building up to the final module of this MOOC.

Module 6: Smart Grid Cyber Security

In the final module, we learn about the cutting edge topic of cyber security in smart grids. This module begins by discussing cyber security risk assessment. Next, computation of security indices and impact analysis of cyber attacks is dealt with. Finally, to conclude, the use of various simulation tools for cyber security analysis is detailed.

Module 7: Wrap-up

This final module provides no new content and allows you to recap and finish the course.