The increasing deployment of DC microgrids for renewable energy integration and rural electrification necessitates robust cybersecurity frameworks to ensure secure and reliable operations. Unlike traditional AC power networks, DC microgrids rely on decentralized control, bidirectional power flow, and real-time data exchange, making them susceptible to cyber threats targeting communication protocols. Securing these protocols is crucial for maintaining system integrity, preventing data breaches, and mitigating cyberattacks that could disrupt power distribution and microgrid stability. This chapter explores advanced security frameworks designed to safeguard communication protocols in distributed DC energy systems, focusing on cryptographic encryption techniques, blockchain-based authentication, intrusion detection systems, and AI-driven anomaly detection. The integration of lightweight cryptographic algorithms ensures secure data transmission without imposing excessive computational overhead, while blockchain technology enhances identity verification and transaction security. The chapter discusses the role of machine learning-based intrusion detection systems in identifying and mitigating cyber threats in real time. The adoption of decentralized security architectures strengthens the resilience of DC microgrids against evolving cybersecurity challenges. By implementing robust protection mechanisms, DC microgrid operations can achieve enhanced reliability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. ÂÂÂ
The deployment of DC microgrids has gained significant attention as a sustainable solution for decentralized energy distribution, particularly in rural electrification and renewable energy integration [1]. These systems offer several advantages, including reduced energy conversion losses, improved efficiency, and seamless integration with solar photovoltaics (PV), wind turbines, and battery storage technologies [2]. However, as DC microgrids increasingly rely on automated control systems, real-time data exchange, and IoT-enabled monitoring, they become vulnerable to cybersecurity threats [3]. Unlike traditional AC grids, where security measures are well established, DC microgrids face unique challenges due to their decentralized nature and dependence on secure communication protocols [4]. The increasing number of cyber threats, including unauthorized access, data breaches, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, poses significant risks to the reliability and resilience of DC microgrid operations. Securing communication protocols in these distributed energy systems is therefore a critical area of research to ensure stability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability [5].ÂÂÂ
The complexity of DC microgrid communication networks arises from their reliance on bidirectional power flow and distributed control mechanisms [6]. Unlike conventional centralized grid structures, DC microgrids operate with multiple energy sources, storage systems, and intelligent controllers that require seamless communication to ensure stable power distribution [7]. Cyber attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in communication protocols to manipulate data, disrupt power exchange, or compromise energy management systems [8]. To mitigate such risks, robust cybersecurity frameworks are needed to protect data integrity, prevent unauthorized access, and detect anomalies in real time [9]. Advanced encryption techniques, blockchain-based authentication, and AI-driven intrusion detection systems have emerged as key technologies in securing DC microgrid operations. By integrating these security measures, microgrid operators can strengthen system resilience against both internal and external cyber threats [10]. ÂÂÂ
