Engineering autonomous and resilient power grids for a fully electrified future

Abstract

The global transition toward deep electrification is fundamentally reshaping the role of power grids in modern society. Rapid integration of renewable energy resources, distributed energy systems, electric transportation, and intelligent loads is transforming conventional electricity networks into highly dynamic, decentralized, and cyber-physical infrastructures. In this evolving landscape, traditional power grids designed primarily for reliable electricity delivery are no longer sufficient to address increasing operational complexity, climate-related disruptions, cybersecurity threats, and the growing demand for system flexibility. This editorial argues that the future of electrical power systems depends on the convergence of autonomy and resilience, enabling power grids to anticipate disturbances, adapt to changing operating conditions, coordinate distributed energy resources, and recover rapidly from unexpected events. It discusses recent advances in artificial intelligence, self healing grid technologies, grid-forming power electronics, digital twins, edge intelligence, and cyber-physical security as key enablers of autonomous grid operation. The editorial further highlights emerging research challenges, including human–AI collaboration, AI-native power systems, multi-energy integration, and future regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, autonomous and resilient power grids are presented as the foundational infrastructure supporting a secure, sustainable, and fully electrified future while accelerating the global transition toward carbon-neutral energy systems.