In today’s world, regardless of where you are or who you work for, we all require (and expect) connectivity and access. Our increasing dependence on information systems and smart devices, however, heightens the need for strong cyber security in devices that never needed it before. The modern cyber threat is real and while it’s finally getting more attention broadly, it still needs to be addressed and discussed more across the electric power industry.
Utilities are responding to the need for a more flexible, reliable and efficient energy system by introducing intelligence in the grid, most notably in distribution, through the deployment of large multi-service field networks. Many utilities are moving beyond advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) deployments and expanding to more complex smart city initiatives. Systems initially deployed for AMI are now supporting multiple services as utilities add system intelligence, improve system reliability and provide customers with more options.