As utilities modernize the grid and support growing electricity demand, protecting critical infrastructure has become increasingly complex. From expanding data center loads to evolving physical and cyber threats, organizations are adapting their security strategies to safeguard reliability while preparing for new risks.
These challenges were the focus of discussions during CEATI's Spring 2026 Infrastructure Protection & Security Virtual General Meeting, where 15 members representing 10 organizations explored emerging threats, including copper theft, forced entry into control houses, equipment tampering, substation protection practices, and ongoing research into enhancing substation resilience.
Three key priorities emerged.
1. Preparing for data center-driven growth
The rapid expansion of data centers is driving the need for new substations, increased grid capacity, and more proactive long-term planning. At the same time, utilities are balancing infrastructure investments with growing budget, resource, and security demands. Members identified data center security and reliability as an emerging area requiring greater collaboration and knowledge sharing.
2. Strengthening physical security and infrastructure resilience
Utilities continue to enhance the physical protection of critical assets through improved surveillance, access control, and facility hardening. Members discussed evolving threats—including copper theft, drones, deliberate physical attacks, and vandalism—and shared approaches for strengthening security programs and improving substation resilience.
3. Managing cybersecurity and emerging technology risks
As digital technologies become more integrated into utility operations, organizations are strengthening IT/OT cybersecurity, monitoring, and incident response capabilities. Members also explored the opportunities and risks associated with AI-enabled security technologies, smart sensors, and supply chain cybersecurity, recognizing the need to address both physical and cyber risks together.
What does this mean for utilities?
Infrastructure protection is becoming increasingly interconnected, requiring utilities to address physical security, cybersecurity, and system planning as part of a unified resilience strategy. As new threats emerge alongside rapid grid transformation, collaboration and knowledge sharing remain essential.
Through technical projects, training, webinars, and collaborative discussions, CEATI continues to help members strengthen security programs, improve infrastructure resilience, and prepare for the evolving risk landscape.
Interested in learning more? Explore CEATI's Infrastructure Protection & Security Program. To access technical reports, training opportunities, and collaborative projects focused on protecting critical utility infrastructure, connect with us.
