Data Security in Networked Microgrids for Transacting Energy

One of the biggest challenges for decarbonizing the grid is allowing those parties with access to distributed energy resources to provide necessary energy and market participant information in a secure manner to support grid and market operations. Multiple entities, protocols, communication networks, and devices present significant challenges for market operators responsible for data governance such as confidentiality and data integrity. One approach is managing parties within and across networked microgrids with a Distribution System Operator (DSO) responsible for facilitating a transactive energy marketplace for their customers. An identity-based cybersecurity mesh fabric using a distributed ledger for delivering edge services was recently demonstrated to ensure data from two networked microgrids and a DSO could be shared across the various systems. A system that included a private blockchain for data governance and access control services needed for these secure interactions was designed and demonstrated. This paper highlights the overall microgrid data flows and data transactions along with the implementation considerations of cybersecurity controls across already installed assets, simulated microgrids, and smart buildings.