Distributed Energy Resources Get a Strong Cybersecurity Boost with $39M DOE Funding

Artificial Intelligence Distributed Energy Resources Get Cybersecurity Boost with $39M DOE Funding

In a significant move towards securing the nation’s energy infrastructure, the US Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $39 million in funding for nine National Laboratory projects focused on bolstering the cybersecurity of distributed energy resources (DER). The funding, provided through DOE’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), aims to support research, development, and demonstration projects in the DER landscape, including solar, wind, and storage technologies, as well as electric vehicle chargers.

Fighting Cyber Threats in the Energy Sector

The increasing reliance on DER systems, such as utility-scale clean technologies, behind-the-meter renewables and storage systems, and electric vehicle chargers, has made the energy sector vulnerable to cyber threats. The interconnectedness of these resources, combined with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in managing and optimizing energy systems, has created new challenges in ensuring the security and resilience of the grid. The funding from DOE will enable the development of cybersecurity tools and technologies specifically tailored to DER systems, including distribution management systems, DER aggregators, and distributed energy resource management systems.

Advancements in Real-Time Data Analytics and Cloud Security

The selected National Laboratory teams will focus on improving real-time DER operation data analytics through ML and AI. These technologies have the potential to enhance the detection of anomalies and cyber threats in DER systems, enabling faster response and mitigation. Additionally, the funded projects will address the security of cloud-based solutions used in DER applications, essential for ensuring the privacy and integrity of data transmitted and stored in the cloud.

Specific Initiatives and Partnerships

The funding initiatives include:

• Argonne National Laboratory: $3.5 million for an Intrusion Diagnostic Unit cybersecurity software tool for DER aggregators
• Brookhaven National Laboratory: Over $3.8 million for generic security solutions for public or hybrid clouds
• Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory: $4.9 million for a cybersecurity intelligence sharing software platform and $4.9 million for cybersecurity detection tools for DER aggregations
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory: $4.9 million for an emulation-based vulnerability analysis framework
• Oak Ridge National Laboratory: $3.7 million for innovative approaches to cyber resilience
• Pacific Northwest National Laboratory: $3.5 million for algorithms and an AI/ML learning tool demonstrating human-machine teaming
• Sandia National Laboratory: $4.9 million for a reference model for DER communication protocols and $4.9 million for a project inspecting encrypted DER traffic at the cloud/utility firewall

Addressing Future Challenges

This funding from DOE is a critical step towards addressing the cybersecurity challenges faced by the energy sector. As DER systems become more prevalent and AI and ML technologies continue to advance, the need for robust and adaptive cybersecurity measures is imperative. By investing in research and development, the DOE is proactively working towards securing the nation’s energy infrastructure against cyber threats.

Editorial: Protecting the Energy Infrastructure of the Future

The digital transformation of the energy sector through the integration of AI, ML, and DER systems has brought significant benefits in terms of efficiency and sustainability. However, it has also presented new vulnerabilities and risks. Cyber attacks on energy infrastructure not only disrupt the supply of electricity but also have the potential to cause physical damage and endanger lives. The funding provided by the DOE for cybersecurity initiatives in the DER landscape is a commendable effort to safeguard the energy infrastructure of the future. It is crucial that government agencies, industry stakeholders, and cybersecurity experts collaborate closely to develop proactive and resilient cybersecurity measures that keep pace with the evolving threat landscape.

Advice for Industry and Individuals

As the energy sector becomes increasingly connected and reliant on digital technologies, it is essential for both industry and individuals to prioritize cybersecurity. Here are some key considerations:

• Invest in robust cybersecurity measures: Energy companies and organizations should allocate adequate resources to establish comprehensive cybersecurity practices, including regular vulnerability assessments, network monitoring, and incident response plans.
• Adopt AI and ML solutions for threat detection: Leveraging AI and ML can enhance the detection and response capabilities of energy systems. Implementing AI-powered cybersecurity solutions can identify and mitigate threats in real-time.
• Secure cloud-based solutions: As the energy sector increasingly relies on cloud-based technologies, it is crucial to implement robust encryption, access controls, and authentication mechanisms to protect sensitive data stored in the cloud.
• Ensure employee awareness and training: Human error remains one of the biggest cybersecurity risks. Regular training and awareness programs can help employees recognize and avoid phishing attacks, social engineering schemes, and other common tactics used by cybercriminals.
• Collaborate and share threat intelligence: Establishing partnerships and information-sharing networks among energy companies, government agencies, and cybersecurity experts can enhance collective defense against cyber threats. Sharing threat intelligence and best practices can help the industry stay ahead of evolving threats.

By implementing these recommendations and remaining vigilant, the energy industry can strengthen its cybersecurity posture and protect critical infrastructure from emerging cyber threats.