Safer, More Secure Adoption of Distributed Energy Resources

Once dominated by centralized, fossil-fuel-powered plants and aging infrastructure, traditional grid systems are becoming more dynamic and decentralized. This shift is driven by the rise of renewables, smarter transmission technologies, and a growing network of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as wind, solar, electric vehicles (EVs), and battery energy storage systems (BESS).

Adopting DERs unlocks new opportunities for organizations as utilities, developers and facility managers race to meet decarbonization goals and improve grid resilience. However, rapid deployment can sometimes outpace standardized communication protocols and integration frameworks, resulting in a patchwork of incompatible technologies and system fragmentation.

While diversifying your power generation mix can help reduce emissions, improve energy access and create a more resilient, reliable grid, doing so can also introduce new layers of complexity. This is especially true as components become more interconnected. A single weak link — such as an unsecured EV charger or an outdated inverter — can expose the entire system to risk, highlighting how physical components can become cybersecurity liabilities.

Every asset must be securely integrated and monitored in real time, often across multiple vendors and platforms, to provide sufficient system protection and safety measures. However, by aligning technologies, protocols and best practices, you can help advance sustainability and create a stronger foundation for transformative energy innovation.

Whether you’re in the early stages of adopting DERs or expanding an existing grid, this e-book offers key strategies and actionable guidance on overcoming the safety and security challenges you might encounter with these types of complex integrations.

What’s inside

• Key trends driving DER adoption
• Top safety and cybersecurity risks and how to address them
• Strategies for grid reliability and scalable systems
• Relevant standards and regulations
• Deep dive into EV charging systems and interoperability challenges

Start building smarter, more adaptive energy systems today with expert insights on DER planning, integration and management.

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