Secure Grid Data Exchange Using Cryptography, Peer-to-Peer Networks, and Blockchain Ledgers

Default ARPA-E Project Image

Program:
OPEN 2018
Award:
$3,399,900
Location:
Alamo, California
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
02/15/2019 - 02/14/2022
Website:

Critical Need:

Recent technology advances in secure distributed computing present an opportunity to reinvent how utilities share sensitive grid infrastructure data, such as transmission maps, heat rate curves, and production schedules securely over the Internet. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has designated such information as Critical Energy/Electric Infrastructure Information (CEII). The lack of a simple, standard CEII-certified data sharing solution limits the electric industry’s ability to enhance grid resiliency and encourages untraceable and unauthorized workarounds that increase cyber-security exposures. A solution to this issue is needed to lower overall operating and electric costs.

Project Innovation + Advantages:

GridBright will develop a simple and secure solution for sharing grid-related data to improve grid efficiency, reliability, and resiliency in a manner that preserves security and integrity. GridBright will use the Agile development model to construct several proof-of-concept software pipelines, performing penetration and compromise testing and a quantitative evaluation of each against existing requirements. The solution will create a simpler secure grid data exchange process for the electric grid and utility industries.

Potential Impact:

GridBright's project objective is to develop a cyber-secure, open-source, cloud-based solution for sharing sensitive grid-related data, directly addressing:

Security:

A protected grid would enhance grid resiliency and reduce cyber-security exposures.

Environment:

Increasing information sharing will improve grid operations through smarter solutions for managing resiliency, distributed resources, and renewables, ultimately decreasing carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S.

Economy:

The secure grid data exchange would eliminate the need for expensive private communications networks and improve grid operator productivity, which eventually benefits everyone through reduced electricity costs.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Richard O'Neill
Project Contact:
Dr. Alireza Vojdani
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
ali.vojdani@gridbright.com

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Release Date:
11/15/2018