Why Cyber Security for renewable energy is of increasing importance
And why we annually renew our Cyber Essentials status.
This subject is more frequently mentioned in our working and domestic lives. We’ve all read the tongue-in-cheek stories of our internet-enabled toasters and fridges listening in on our conversations. However, cyber security is an increasingly relevant aspect of everyday lives. With the increasing use of complex systems, we become more visible to those that might chose to exploit that.
Threats to cyber security for renewable energy systems is no different. Things like internet updates, webcams that give us remote access to our assets and, very importantly, remote monitoring systems all open us up to the potential of outside interference. Recently this subject touched our lives a bit closer than we would have liked.
Some unscrupulous, internationally based, Ne’er-do-Wells decided to take an interest in a specific type of Industrial PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) that was used on one type of hydro controller. They accessed through “open ports” and decided to play a bit of havoc with the programme that controls the hydro. The result was that some hydro schemes shut down; their controllers needed reprogramming and then set back to work.
How can we increase cyber security for renewable energy systems?
The Men in Black who came to our Client’s assistance identified that these intruders were likely just practicing for bigger prizes, but that’s not a huge comfort to those affected.
It gives us important reminders:
When we add things like remote monitoring, or webcams, it is like giving out another key to the padlock on the gate. We need to make sure we know what and who they could give access to.
We need to maintain that part of the system, just like greasing a bearing. So that means:
- Making sure we do security updates.
- Regular password changes at reasonable intervals.
- Minimising who has access.
- Having a plan: do you, or your service providers, keep backups of important information?
- Remembering that these attacks might come from an unexpected direction. Who thought a simple webcam could be an opportunity?
At Proterra Energy we renew our Cyber Essentials accreditation every year and have done since 2024. This gives our Clients, and our staff, peace of mind that we’re taking the steps we can to protect our systems from online threats to enhance their security and longevity.