An overview of the impacts of three high power electromagnetic (HPEM) threats on Smart Grids

Throughout the world there are plans to enhance the operation of electricity power networks to deal with the introduction of distributed and renewable power systems. The basic approach is to provide a new communications system to monitor and control future power networks (Smart Grid). Unfortunately electromagnetic disturbances such as those associated with typical electromagnetic interference (EMI) can cause problems with the operation of modern electronics. In addition a set of high power EM threats are of even greater concern, although the probability of occurrence for each threat is low. This paper introduces these three HPEM threats and describes the possible impacts on electronics within electricity networks of the future, if they are not protected before being placed in service.