Cybersecurity In Power Sector Should Not Be Underestimated - BMI

By Siti Radziah Hamzah

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 (Bernama) --  Cybersecurity is always critical and its importance in the power sector should not be undermined given the implications, said BMI senior power and renewables analyst David Thoo. 

He emphasised that the power sector, whether in renewables or traditional energy, would always be a target of cyberattacks, and as the adoption of renewable energy increases, this could mean that more plants and systems are being targeted.

"The main targets of cyberattacks are critical infrastructure including utility networks and power plants. If these attacks can bring networks or power plants offline by infiltrating controls, it will result in major blackouts," Thoo told Bernama in an email interview recently. 

The world is rapidly ramping up its renewable energy capacity in line with ambitious climate pledges. 

The accelerated transition to green energy comes with new challenges, including concerns about the increasing use of electricity use from renewable sources, which could create new opportunities for cyberattacks. 

The Malaysian government, through the Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy 2020-2024, has identified 11 Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) sectors — including the energy sector — that must be protected and preserved to ensure the security of the nation, its economy, and the public’s health and safety.

The country's Cyber Security Bill 2024 was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on March 27 and the Dewan Negara on April 3 this year.

It is aimed at enhancing the nation’s cybersecurity through compliance with specific measures, standards and processes in managing cybersecurity threats.

BMI is a Fitch Solutions company.

-- BERNAMA