Siemens and BCIT to Collaborate on Smart Grid Cybersecurity and Microgrid Research

August 7, 2016

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Siemens Canada have entered into a new long-term collaborative relationship that focuses on research and commercialization opportunities on smart grid cybersecurity and microgrids.

The two organizations will identify and pursue the application of new technologies in these growing markets.

Recent shifts in the energy landscape in Canada, including the advancement of technologies and connectivity of electrical networks, have opened utilities to the possibility of attacks, compromising the integrity, reliability, and security of these networks. Cybersecurity is a critical and mandatory issue for grid operators today. As the grid becomes more digital, it also becomes more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Under the MOU, Siemens and BCIT’s Centre for Applied Research and Innovation (CARI) SMART group will enable knowledge-sharing and training to address gaps in Canada’s critical public utilities infrastructure. Siemens and BCIT will also focus on the emerging area of smart microgrids:

• the development of technologies, components, and solutions for cost-effective and environmentally responsible electrification in Canada and around the world

• how microgrid solutions can address the topics of energy reliability, sustainability, resiliency, or economy

“With energy being one of the world’s most challenging problems, Siemens and BCIT have been collaborating and leading innovation in this field for many years,” says BCIT President Kathy Kinloch. “Our partnership has been very productive and with the signing of this MOU, I am excited to continue working together to develop the effective operation and security for microgrids through solution based research.”

BCIT and Siemens have a long-standing relationship as partners in previous smart grid project, including BCIT’s Smart Grid Laboratory Project and the BCIT Energy OASIS Microgrid Project — the first campus-wide microgrid project in Canada.

“Our energy systems are becoming increasingly complex with rapidly changing technology. The challenges and opportunities presented by smart grids, distributed energy resources and solutions such as microgrids underline the importance of the focus topics being pursued under this MOU,” says Faisal Kazi, Senior Vice President, Energy Management for Siemens Canada. “We look forward to further collaboration with BCIT, utilizing our strong relationship and combined expertise to explore opportunities towards the future of energy in Canada.”