DOE Launches Funding Opportunity for Grid Cybersecurity R&D Projects

The Department of Energy will support research, development and demonstration efforts aimed at strengthening the security and resiliency of U.S. power grid against cyber threats and will select up to 15 cybersecurity projects for the new funding opportunity.

DOE said Wednesday that potential topic areas are automated cyber attack prevention and mitigation; cybersecurity-by-design approach to technology development; enhanced energy sector authentication; energy delivery control system cybersecurity; software tool and tech development; and existing infrastructure modernization.

Aside from protecting energy delivery systems from cyber threats, the funding opportunity also aligns with the White House’s goal of reaching net-zero carbon economy by 2050.

“As DOE builds out America’s clean energy infrastructure, this funding will provide the tools for a strong, resilient, and secure electricity grid that can withstand modern cyber threats and deliver energy to every pocket of America,” said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm.

DOE’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response will allocate $45 million to fund the research projects. It expects collaborative efforts from energy sector utilities, contractors, academe, national laboratories and service providers to help ensure reliability of electric grid.

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