Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a crucial tool in enhancing the cybersecurity of energy systems. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recognizes the importance of AI in this field and has invested significantly in research and development projects to advance AI-based cybersecurity technologies¹.
Investment in AI for Cybersecurity
The DOE announced a $12 million investment for six new research, development, and demonstration projects. These projects aim to develop innovative cybersecurity technology to ensure energy delivery systems are designed, installed, operated, and maintained to survive and recover quickly from cyberattacks¹. This investment aligns with President Biden’s goal of a 100% clean electrical grid by 2035 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050¹.
AI in Cybersecurity
AI can help detect new threats by monitoring behavior and identifying user patterns³. It can perform automated, repetitive tasks, improving efficiency, reducing cost, and saving time that could be invested in other business functions⁴. AI is also being used to boost the reliability and resiliency of the electrical grid, which provides the foundation for economic and national security⁵.
Projects Funded by DOE
Among the projects funded by the DOE’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), one notable project is led by Florida International University. This project aims to develop AI-based detection tools and design effective cyber threat mitigation strategies using these technologies¹.
AI plays a pivotal role in enhancing the cybersecurity of energy systems. The DOE’s commitment to investing in AI technologies underscores its potential in fortifying America’s power grid against increasing cyber threats.
(1) DOE Announces $12 Million to Enhance Cybersecurity of America’s Energy …. https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-announces-12-million-enhance-cybersecurity-americas-energy-systems.
(2) Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity | Drexel CCI. https://drexel.edu/cci/stories/role-of-AI-in-cybersecurity/.
(3) 4 ways AI can help us enter a new age of cybersecurity. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/06/4-ways-ai-new-age-of-cybersecurity/.
(4) This Government Agency Is A Surprising Powerhouse In AI – Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/cognitiveworld/2020/07/28/the-us-department-of-energy-is-a-surprising-powerhouse-in-ai-an-interview-with-cheryl-ingstad-director-ai-and-technology-office-at-us-department-of-energy-doe/.
(5) AI for Science, Energy, and Security Report – Argonne National Laboratory. https://www.anl.gov/ai-for-science-report.