Protecting Smart Grid and Advanced Metering Infrastructure

Abstract

Smart grids and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (hereafter referred to as system) are envisaged to be next steps in power distribution and transmission. The system will not only ensure efficient power supply but also aims to reduce power thefts and fault detections in time. However, the system is susceptible to cyber-attack and tampering. The paper aims to provide some solutions to protect the system from attack and tampering. The solutions are based on international standards in cryptography. These include but are not limited to data encryption and authentication, protection against eavesdropping, sensor protection from tampering as well as hacking. The solutions suggested can be extended easily to protect other utilities such as gas and water.