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Hydropower plants worldwide are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to boost efficiency and reliability. However, as this technology grows, so do cybersecurity concerns. AI-driven tools help operators make smarter decisions about water management and maintenance, but they also make hydropower infrastructure more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
AI offers significant advantages to the hydropower sector. It helps operators plan when to produce power, predict how much water will be available, and optimize turbine use. “Through being able to collect and analyze data, AI systems can help to identify where figures might be deviating, such as temperature changes, which enables targeted, predictive maintenance, rather than just reacting when something breaks down,” said Wolfgang Hofbauer, an expert in the area. These improvements help ensure that more power is generated with less water.
Hydropower facilities grapple with aging infrastructure and unpredictable climate conditions. Maintenance usually follows a set schedule, meaning unexpected breakdowns or problems with equipment may happen, slowing down power production. These bottleneck areas are where AI can potentially be the solution.
However, with increased connectivity comes greater risk. Using AI tools means digitalization, which makes it easier for hackers to find ways to attack through smart devices. “Hydropower plants can be seen as vulnerable targets in the infrastructure of a country, and thus be attractive to hackers,” Hofbauer warned.
It’s depicted by the recent rise in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, including power grids. In 2023, a cyberattack targeted Hydro-Québec, a major power provider in Canada, and another attack attempted to infiltrate the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in 2022. Both incidents show actors targeting critical infrastructure for bigger impact and monetary gain.
AI also plays both sides of the game. Therefore, it’s not a surprise to see AI tools being developed to combat these threats. For instance, the Cybersecurity Situational Awareness Tool for Hydropower (CYSAT-Hydro) by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). CYSAT-Hydro detects anomalies in real time, helping operators respond to potential attacks immediately.
Meanwhile, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has developed several standards to guide industrial environments in implementing cybersecurity measures. International standards help solve many cybersecurity problems by using the best practices from around the world. For example, IEC 62443 details how to secure industrial automation and control systems. It can be applied to critical facilities like power utilities, nuclear plants, and the health and transport sectors.
Despite the challenges, the potential of AI in hydropower is immense. It allows for more efficient water management, enhances grid reliability, and aids in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. As AI continues transforming the energy sector, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures will be key to fully realizing its benefits while minimizing risks.
