Electricity + Control November 2018

TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT + INSTRUMENTATION

Protecting against cyber threats Utility leaders clearly understand the importance of maintaining security across IT and OT networks. But the rapid evolution of electric grids and com- munications networks can make it difficult to plan safeguards. As efficiency efforts drive IT and OT systems to converge, hackers can gain access to the OT infrastructure via an IT route, fuelling a need for utility leaders to assess, plan and implement protection strategies for critical assets. This posi- tion represents a fundamental shift in approach to security; where security was once set up under IT only or as a separate shop, it is now being integrat- ed into a broader IT/OT function. Asset managers must assess their risks and adopt responsible se- curity measures that are flexible and scalable. Committing to human and capital investments A major challenge for utilities is that these new data analytics systems are mandating a new set of skills, requiring a different type of staffing from what was needed in the past. Planning for the future Increasing connectivity and a growing embrace of renewable energy are driving deep change in the utility industry. While there is a growing un- derstanding that ‘smart’ monitoring systems de- liver unparalleled levels of scrutiny and increased awareness, utilities must be aware that these networks are best served with a holistic and inte- grated systems approach, rather than focusing on the separate components of the generation and distribution process.

A data tsunami It is well recognised that IoT can drive efficiencies and optimise processes. That said, IoT’s ability to capture huge blasts of data through sensors leads to one major challenge – how does an organisation structure that data and, more importantly, distil something usable from what is effectively a ‘data tsunami’? This is a significant, even daunting proposition, and utilities vary with their level of data integration abilities. Some have developed detailed plans to direct data to specific areas within the utility; oth- ers struggle with the concept of using operational data for something other than where it is coming from. For example, data can bring about a turf bat- tle between IT and OT. Operational data is collect- ed by battery sensors through SCADA systems. This data must then pass to those responsible for making energy purchase decisions, and then to billing in the IT systems department. Utilities are in various stages of interconnecting these technol- ogies, but those that master this union and nimbly collect and process vast amounts of data hold the edge. This challenge demands a strategy for struc- turing information, applying analytics and extracting knowledge to harness data’s value. The communications gap As these data collection systems evolve and be- come more efficient, they require reliable, robust communications systems to send information back to the central office or SCADA system. Un- fortunately, the move to more advanced grid tech- nologies can be hampered by the capacity and capabilities of current communications systems. Is your current communications network adequate to support future needs and requirements for grid modernisation (i.e. renewable integration, distribution automation, network convergence)? (Select one choice)

How much capital do you plan to invest in the electric distribution system over the next three years? (Select one choice)

Other/no investment over the next three years

No, it’s not adequate. I do not know where to start

Less than $10 million

20%

14,7%

4,5%

Authors: John T A Miller is the solar technology manag- er and Doug Young a project manager and lead engineer with Black & Veatch.

More than $200 million

21,3%

24%

Yes, it is adequate

More than $10 to $50 million

41,8%

4% 16%

53,7%

No, it’s not adequate, but we are working on a strategy and plan

More than $100 million to $200 million

$50 to $100 million

Electricity + Control

NOVEMBER 2018

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