Artificial Intelligence-Driven Coordination Algorithms for Adaptive Fault Protection in Hybrid AC/DC Networks: Enhancing Grid Resilience and Blackout Prevention

Objective

The rapid integration of renewable energy, electric vehicles, and inverter-based resources is reshaping power systems into hybrid AC/DC networks. While these grids are central to Europe’s net-zero ambitions, their protection is increasingly uncertain. Conventional schemes rely on strong fault currents and synchronous machines, which are no longer dominant. As a result, today’s protection methods often fail to detect, classify, or locate faults accurately, exposing networks to instability and large-scale outages. This research proposes an AI-driven adaptive fault protection framework tailored for hybrid integrated AC/DC networks. The research will combine advanced Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) with mathematically derived equations of the fault events to detect and classify faults quickly, even under converter-dominated and uncertain conditions. A dedicated fault database will be built to cover diverse operating scenarios, including disturbances from renewables and electric vehicles. Algorithms will be validated using real-time digital simulation, ensuring both novelty and practical applications. Expected results include: 1. A unified modelling platform for hybrid AC/DC fault interactions. 2. Adaptive physics-based learning knowledge with formulated mathematical equations to reduce the data and improve the performances. 3. Open-access datasets and tools for researchers and system operators. This research will advance fault protection beyond state-of-the-art to improve the resilience, reliability, and cyber-physical security of future energy networks to avoid blackouts. The outcomes will directly support Europe’s clean energy transition, digitalisation agenda, and the integration of renewables and e-mobility. The fellowship will also strengthen the researcher’s expertise at the intersection of power systems, artificial intelligence, and energy security, enhancing career prospects while delivering solutions of high value to academia, industry, and society.