Security and sustainability

Broad digital transformations in technology have impacted the way our energy is generated, distributed and used. It is not just about changing the sources of energy, but also revolutionizing the entire energy infrastructure to be more resilient, sustainable, and agile to future evolutions.

A key aspect of this transformation in the energy sector is the integration of digital technologies like:

• Smart and connected devices
• Mass orchestration of distributed and centralized controllers
• Cloud-based systems in OT
• Advanced data analytics, including artificial intelligence.

As energy systems become more connected and reliant on these technologies, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Supply chains for electronic and digital systems are challenging and often non-domestic.  These threats can range from data breaches and privacy violations to attacks on critical infrastructure that could potentially disrupt energy supply and distribution. This security paradigm must be built into the new system, with the potential to adapt to a changing geopolitical and climate landscape.

Digital technologies and data hold tremendous potential to accelerate clean energy transitions across the energy sector. Energy transitions will include:

• Deploying sophisticated software intelligence (AI) to optimize smarter distribution networks and data center use.
• Cyber securing the rapid adoption of smart meters and electric vehicles (EVs).
• Protecting internet protocols (IPs) for new operational technologies and their respective software.

In electricity systems, digital technologies can help integrate increasing shares of variable renewables and improve the reliability of grids, while in end-use sectors they can improve clean energy and material efficiency.