Texas is known for its wind energy production, with new wind turbines continuously being constructed across the state. One particular wind project has attracted the attention of Senator John Cornyn. In July, Cornyn raised concerns about a wind farm in Val Verde County, backed by Chinese billionaire Sun Guangxin, who has ties to the Communist Party. The project’s proximity to Laughlin Air Force Base led Cornyn to believe it posed a national security threat.
To understand the cybersecurity risks associated with renewable energy, Texas Standard interviewed Megan Culler, a power engineer and researcher at the Idaho National Laboratory based in El Paso. Culler highlighted the digital threats faced by the energy sector, particularly with the increasing use of digital technologies in renewable energy production. She emphasized the need for remote connectivity in rural areas where renewable energy is often generated.
When discussing the importance of physical proximity to security, Culler mentioned that the geographic location of a wind farm in relation to critical infrastructure like military bases or hospitals does not necessarily increase the likelihood of a cyber attack. However, if a wind farm serves a critical load nearby, there could be significant consequences if the generation asset is compromised.
Texas’s independent energy grid raises questions about its vulnerability to cyber threats. Culler explained that while the grid’s independence may affect the consequences of an attack, it does not necessarily make it more vulnerable. She emphasized the importance of cybersecurity practices and highlighted the need for wind and solar operators to implement basic security measures like firewall protection and VPNs.
Culler also discussed the unique challenges faced by wind operators due to the geographic spread of wind turbines. She suggested that remote device monitoring and physical protection of assets are crucial in preventing cyber attacks on wind farms. While advancements have been made in securing grid infrastructure, Culler acknowledged the ongoing risks posed by digital connectivity and third-party integrations.
Overall, efforts are being made to enhance cybersecurity in the energy sector, with solutions being developed to address emerging vulnerabilities. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for operators to prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect against potential threats. If you appreciate the informative reporting provided above, please consider supporting it through a donation to sustain quality journalism on platforms like texasstandard.org and KUT.org. Your contribution helps fund the valuable content you enjoy. Thank you for considering a donation to support our work.
