Internet-based energy and security: the internet ties it all together. (Energy Online: Management Information Systems).(energy security has taken on new meanings since 9/11/01)

It seems odd that a defining moment of the century should occur in the first year. But when history recalls the 21st century, 9/11/01 will clearly be the first among the significant dates. Since then, homeland security has become part of our everyday vocabulary. Homeland security is also a huge market opportunity for automation technology.

Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge announced in late April that $15 billion in grant funding is available to states and cities for security. President Bush's proposed budget for 2004 includes nearly $3.5 billion for homeland security on top of the $5 billion already funded. This funding is for wide-ranging programs, but automation and building technology are very important. This was no more evident than at "BuilConn" (Building Connections), a recent conference emphasizing the integration of energy, security, and information technology (IT) systems. Participants at this event were keenly interested in "killer apps" and tools that will become part of the fabric that makes up the energy industry. Most industry proponents believe that energy, security, and IT technology are converging--with the Internet taking center stage. This convergence will affect energy supply and demand.

A New Definition

Not so long ago, the term security conjured up images of police or burglar alarms. Now there is much more to consider, as security is meant to protect buildings, plants, and data. Planning and technology for building security are more important in the design process. Security must be planned far in advance of an actual crime, and there are numerous sources today for information on designing safe and secure environments.

A number of tools available over the Internet (such as www.securityoncampus.org) focus on education. The site contains a security audit to evaluate existing buildings and assist in designing ones that are less vulnerable to threats. In addition to passive design considerations, technology can significantly reduce the risk of an intrusion or a violent crime. A related site from the American Institute of Architects (www.aia.org/security) focuses on building security into design. There is also heightened awareness of security for power plants and all types of industrial facilities, particularly when they could be potential targets of terrorism.

Data security has also received attention industry-wide. The first issue is data protection. Numerous energy devices from meters to automation systems now have Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, and this presents a risk from data corruption and unlawful access. The greatest concern is communication that requires access through network firewalls, and this could provide an opening for hackers. The buzz about protecting data and firewall integrity is very real, so energy system integrators must make effective use of proven data security techniques. The opportunity exists to implement automation technology on a larger scale and to dramatically expand its benefits by integrating other systems and leveraging the Internet's power. Special systems, like automation, security, fire, etc., interfaced to the Internet offer new features, but this requires data security via encryption and authentication technology.

Where Does Security Start?