As energy systems become increasingly digitised, data integrity and cybersecurity have moved to the top of the agenda for energy and facilities managers attending the Energy Management Summit. The proliferation of IoT-connected meters, cloud-based energy platforms, and integrated building management systems has brought tremendous benefits, but also new vulnerabilities. Ensuring the resilience and trustworthiness of these systems is essential not just for operational continuity, but for regulatory compliance and stakeholder confidence…
The Expanding Threat Landscape
The digital infrastructure supporting energy systems is a prime target for cyberattacks, ranging from ransomware and data breaches to nation-state threats against critical infrastructure. Compromised systems can lead to falsified consumption data, disruption of energy optimisation algorithms, or even control override of connected equipment.
In response, energy managers are adopting a “defence-in-depth” approach, layering physical, digital, and procedural safeguards across every node in the system.
Best Practices for Data Integrity
Ensuring data integrity begins at the point of capture. Smart meters and sub-meters must be securely configured, calibrated, and maintained. Data validation protocols, such as automated anomaly detection and cross-device comparison, are being embedded into energy management software to flag suspicious patterns, sensor drift, or unexpected surges in consumption.
Regular audits, timestamp verification, and digital signatures are also used to maintain trustworthy audit trails across energy platforms.
Cybersecurity Strategies for 2025
The most forward-thinking organisations are aligning their energy cybersecurity strategies with enterprise-wide IT policies and frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001 and the UK’s Cyber Essentials scheme.
Key priorities include:
- Network Segmentation: Isolating energy devices and systems from general IT networks to contain breaches and limit lateral movement.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Protecting access to energy dashboards and SCADA systems with identity verification controls.
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR): Using AI-powered tools to monitor connected meters and controllers for real-time threats.
- Vendor Risk Management: Ensuring third-party providers of energy platforms and equipment meet stringent cybersecurity standards, including software update policies and penetration testing.
The Role of Compliance & Collaboration
Energy managers must also ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks such as the UK’s Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations and sector-specific guidance from Ofgem and BEIS. Increasingly, energy procurement and cybersecurity teams are collaborating on vendor selection, system architecture, and incident response planning.
The integrity and security of energy data are business-critical. By embedding cybersecurity into every level of their energy systems, and working closely with trusted technology partners, organisations can protect their operations, optimise performance, and build long-term resilience in an interconnected energy future.
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