German energy giant Innogy has become the latest member of the European Network for Cyber Security (ENCS).

Specialising in renewable, grid and infrastructure as well as retail operations, Innogy is at the forefront of trends such as digitalisation and a smarter grid but with a more connected energy system comes an added need for cyber security.

ENCS’ mission is to safeguard cyber security across the European energy sector through a collaborative, membership-based approach.

“Energy infrastructure is critical and faces a rising number of cyber-attacks, while the complexity of the threats is also increasing,” said Dr Andreas Breuer, head of new technology, grid & infrastructure segment at Innogy. “This is why we seek the exchange of knowledge within the ENCS about possible counter-strategies, with the network having a clear focus on infrastructure-related business.”

ENCS already works with a wide variety of utilities across Europe, sharing knowledge and expertise, collaborating on research projects and conducting training. Over the course of 2018, particular areas of focus will be on security policy, architecture and operations.

“Innogy is a unique company that can draw on the long-experience and heritage of its parent company while also being a new entity that is completely focused on our new energy world,” says Anjos Nijk, managing director, ENCS. “As you’d expect from such a company, cyber security is at the forefront of its thinking. We’re confident Innogy will both get and add huge value to the network.”

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