Smart grid security: New legislation could lessen cybersecurity risks

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Quick Take: The government is fond of mandating national information sharing sites. Sadly, those sites are often over-funded and under-utilized. We hope the idea described below will do better. It sets up mechanisms not just to talk about techniques and technology, but also to warn of immediate threats. - By Jesse Berst

A bill has been introduced in the House that would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to evaluate cybersecurity risks to critical infrastructure (including the power grid) and then to determine ways to lessen those risks. As reported at GovInfoSecurity.com, the legislation would also establish a National Information Sharing Organization to facilitate best practices and sharing of threat information. In addition, it hopes to "serve as a catalyst for cooperative research."

Meanwhile, a second bill would make it easier to share information about cyber-threats, including classified government information. Although it applies to all business, not just infrastructure, the bill's passage could make it easier to swap information about ongoing problems without fear of reprisal.

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Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com. He consults to smart grid companies seeking market entry advice and M&A advisory. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the US and abroad, he also serves on the Advisory Council of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Energy & Environment directorate.

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