The government said that at no point was there a risk to the UK’s energy system, but the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has contacted power companies to advise them about the risk of cyberattacks.
The Daily Telegraph reported that the attack, which took place last month, was carried out by hackers affiliated with the Iranian regime.
For security reasons, neither the government nor the National Cyber Security Centre, which deals with attacks on critical infrastructure, would give further details of the site affected. However, this was not an attack on an essential service such as a large power station.
What is Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)?
CNI refers to essential assets, facilities, systems, networks, and processes whose loss or compromise could significantly impact national security, economic stability, or public safety. The UK’s energy sector, including power plants and the electricity grid, is designated as CNI, highlighting its vital role in the country’s functioning.
Cyberattacks are an increasing threat to critical national infrastructure, including energy systems. In 2023, successful cyberattacks on UK utility companies surged by 586% compared to the previous year, with 48 incidents reported. Nearly all (93%) UK critical infrastructure organisations reported a cyber incident in the past year, with many causing operational disruption. These attacks can target operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS), which are often reliant on older, connected infrastructure, creating vulnerabilities.
“The UK’s energy system is becoming increasingly complex as renewable generation, smart technologies and digital platforms are deployed at scale. While these technologies support decarbonisation and operational efficiency, they also increase the potential attack surface available to adversaries.” — Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)
Building a more robust and resilient energy system involves continuous investment, regulatory oversight, and technological innovation. Companies like Fuse Energy are contributing to this by investing in diverse generation assets, such as their operational solar and wind projects including Netley North, Bullous Park, and Balnamoon. By vertically integrating and focusing on delivering abundant, clean energy, Fuse aims to enhance grid resilience and reduce the likelihood and impact of outages, helping to build a future with more “power to play with”. This approach supports a stable national energy system for residential customers, moving towards a future where energy is abundant and reliable.
Prepare for Power Outages
Are your cooking appliances all electric? The Cadac 2 Cook 2 Pro (£99 on Amazon) is a 2-burner camping cooker designed for normal-sized cooking pots. I can personally recommend this cooker. I have one that I have used to cater for a large security team at a festival. It will require a hose and regulator when you get it.
DO NOT USE CANDLES IN A BLACKOUT
Shops like Home Bargains have excellent rechargeable Lanterns for under £5 each. In fact, I bought these lanterns from Home Bargains for £2.99 each. They come with a little tripod and have a thread that fits a camera tripod. USB-C Charged (not fast charge).
In fact, I can charge all my lamps. power banks, laptop, tablet, and phone with this unit and keep it topped up with the photovoltaic. The Anker SOLIX C200 DC Solar Generator + 60W Solar Panel is still available at a half-price deal of £149.00
If you do invest in a backup power unit, buy what you need, don’t expect to run your home in a power outage as though its connected to the mains unless you have the battery capacity to do so and the Photovoltaics to keep it powered.
Remember, central heating pumps, valves, and thermostats need mains power to operate. The gas boiler needs mains electricity. If you installed a heat pump, it won’t work. Solar Thermal systems require mains to operate the sensors, computer, and pumps. If you have grid-tied photovoltaics, they shut down unless you have special equipment; you do not have off-grid power.
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