Statistical Mechanics Approaches to Analysing Large Blackouts

In this thesis the power system is studied using the canonical ensemble from statistical mechanics. Relatively new developments allow us to include in a swing equation model the dynamics of continuous state variables modeling the on-off status of transmission lines. It turns out that this model can be described by a Hamiltonian-like energy function. Using the energy function we can evaluate the system from an energetic viewpoint, making the application of the canonical ensemble possible. Some of the results give clear meaning and are easily interpreted, while other parts less so. Changes to the energy function to make it easier to work with from an energetic viewpoint are proposed and tested. The results of this work are positive, but inconclusive in determining the usefulness of a statistical mechanical approach.