## 3 Results
### Cyberattacks in Smart Grids: Challenges and Implications of Cybersecurity  
#### 3.1.1 Overview of Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution in Smart Grids  
A smart grid is an advanced electrical power system that integrates cutting-edge technologies, sensors, and communication networks to optimize the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption (Figure 3). Its objective is to revolutionize the conventional grid into a dynamic, automated, and adaptable network for enhanced performance [127, 128]. Smart grids operate in two distinct modes: stand-alone and grid-tied [129, 130]. In stand-alone mode, the smart grid functions independently, generating and managing electricity locally, often in remote areas, using sources such as solar and wind, along with energy storage [131]. In grid-tied mode, the smart grid is interconnected with the main power grid, enabling bidirectional electricity flow and supporting stability through imports and exports of power. The choice between these modes depends on factors such as location, infrastructure, energy goals, and regulations [132]. Power generation within smart grids encompasses a diverse mix of sources, including traditional fossil fuel plants and renewables such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. The concept of distributed generation is central to smart grids, fostering smaller-scale facilities close to consumption points such as rooftop solar panels and micro-hydro setups. This approach bolsters grid resilience, reduces transmission losses, and encourages private investment, diversifying ownership and financing beyond utilities [133, 134]. Energy storage systems, including batteries and pumped hydro, play a pivotal role by storing the excess electricity for peak demand, thus, enhancing grid stability and enabling the integration of renewables [135, 12]. Smart grids employ demand-response programs to actively manage electricity consumption, allowing users to voluntarily adjust usage during peak demand or grid stress, promoting grid stability and energy efficiency. Home energy management systems enable the remote control of smart appliances via user-friendly interfaces, optimizing energy consumption based on preferences and occupancy patterns [136, 137]. Time-of-use pricing models incentivize off-peak consumption [138], while smart grids also facilitate electric vehicle charging infrastructure and vehicle-to-grid technology, enabling EVs to contribute back to the grid [139]. Employing technologies such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) [140] and the Internet of Things (IoT) [141], smart grids optimize power generation through real-time data collection, analytics, and predictive algorithms, enhancing grid management and decision-making for load forecasting, demand management, and maintenance scheduling. Smart grids optimize long-distance electricity transportation by employing high-voltage transmission lines, thereby minimizing losses [142]. These grids integrate sensors along these lines to gather real-time data on parameters such as power flow and voltage, which is transmitted to control centers for proactive analysis. Wide-area monitoring systems (WAMS) employing phasor measurement units (PMUs) enable comprehensive grid behavior monitoring, aiding with a swift response to disturbances [143, 144]. The advanced control systems within smart grids optimize power flow and voltage, leveraging real-time data and mathematical algorithms. These systems adjust power flows, reduce losses, and maintain grid stability. Flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) devices, such as static VAR compensators (SVC) and unified power flow controllers (UPFC), enhance voltage stability and power flow control [145, 146]. The seamless coordination among power generation, transmission, and distribution is enabled by robust communication networks and information communication technologies (ICTs) [147, 81].