April 17, 2026
In a recent PV Magazine article, two UL Solutions experts — Michael Slowinske, senior director and regional general manager, Energy & Industrial Automation, and Sjoerd Willemsen, principal engineer, Energy & Industrial Automation — explain how decentralized energy is reshaping the grid and why cybersecurity should be considered early in system design. The article answers these key questions:
What is changing about the electric grid today?
The electric grid was historically designed as a centralized system with limited digital connectivity. Today, it is increasingly decentralized, relying on distributed energy resources such as renewable energy generation, energy storage systems and electric vehicles that communicate digitally and operate in real time.
Why does this shift raise cybersecurity concerns?
As thousands of connected technologies become part of everyday grid operations, the number of potential entry points for cyber threats expands. These digitally connected systems now play an active role in managing electricity flows, so cybersecurity is now directly tied to grid reliability and stability.
How do distributed energy resources (DERs) and inverter‑based resources (IBRs) affect grid operations?
DER and IBR technologies help regulate voltage, balance supply and demand, and respond dynamically to grid conditions. Their secure performance is therefore essential to maintaining dependable power.
Why are new cybersecurity approaches needed?
Many grid systems were originally built for closed, analog environments and were not designed to meet modern cybersecurity expectations. As connectivity increases, more consistent, security‑by‑design approaches are needed to address emerging risks across decentralized energy systems.
What frameworks are emerging to support cybersecurity for distributed energy?
Industry efforts are underway to establish clearer cybersecurity expectations for connected energy technologies. One significant effort is UL 2941, the Standard for the Cybersecurity of Distributed Energy and Inverter‑Based Resources, which addresses risks associated with network‑connected devices that manage significant energy flows.
Where can I learn more about UL 2941?
Information about testing devices for cybersecurity compliance is available at the UL 2941 service page at UL.com.