In an era where our dependence on digital systems is profound, the energy sector stands at a pivotal juncture. As the energy landscape undergoes a transformative shift driven by the urgency to address climate change, consumer demands, distributed energy resources, and the rise of energy electrification, the role of cyber security becomes paramount. This paper delves into how open source software is critical to the innovation and transformation of our energy infrastructure. Contrary to common misconceptions, OSS offers not just affordability and adaptability but also a robust shield against cyber threats.
LF Energy and the Open Source Security Foundation (OpenSSF) have released a new whitepaper on how open source software is critical to the innovation and transformation of our energy infrastructure, and how to use it in a way that shields against cyber threats.
The whitepaper covers best practices for open source development within the energy sector with a focus on four key areas:
- The Evolution of Energy Systems
- The Role of Open Source in Energy
- Current State of Cybersecurity in Energy
- Best Practices in Open Source for Cybersecurity
Concrete best practices are outlined in the paper to help stakeholders understand how to improve their cybersecurity and protect valuable energy assets. Cybersecurity is strongest when it is built in from the start rather than added on as an afterthought, and this paper can serve as a resource to help utilities, vendors, and other stakeholders do just that.
