Multi-agent Power Grid Restoration Under Uncertainty Considering Coupled Transportation-Power Networks

Abstract

Restoring power distribution systems after extreme events such as tornadoes presents significant logistical and computational challenges. The complexity arises from the need to coordinate multiple repair crews under uncertainty, manage interdependent infrastructure failures, and respect strict sequencing and routing constraints. Existing methods often rely on deterministic heuristics or simplified models that fail to capture the interdependencies between power and transportation networks, do not adequately model uncertainty, and lack representation of the interrelated dynamics and dependencies among different types of repair crews--leading to suboptimal restoration outcomes. To address these limitations, we develop a stochastic two-stage mixed-integer programming framework for proactive crew allocation, assignment, and routing in power grid restoration. The primary objective of our framework is to minimize service downtime and enhance power restoration by efficiently coordinating repair operations under uncertainty. Multiple repair crews are modeled as distinct agents, enabling decentralized coordination and efficient task allocation across the network. To validate our approach, we conduct a case study using the IEEE 8500-node test feeder integrated with a real transportation network from the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) region. Additionally, we use tornado event data from the DFW area to construct realistic failure scenarios involving damaged grid components and transportation links. Results from our case study demonstrate that the proposed method enables more coordinated and efficient restoration strategies. The model facilitates real-time disaster response by supporting timely and practical power grid restoration, with a strong emphasis on interoperability and crew schedule coordination.