Cybersecurity Requirements in the Energy Industry
The energy sector relies on increasingly connected systems to generate, distribute, and manage power and utilities. Digitalization and remote operation improve efficiency and resilience, but they also introduce cybersecurity obligations that extend well beyond traditional IT environments.
Energy organizations must address cybersecurity across operational technology (OT), industrial control systems, connected devices, and supporting software platforms. Requirements typically cover secure system design, risk management, controlled access, monitoring, and incident response, while ensuring availability and safety remain paramount.
In practice, cybersecurity requirements in the energy sector are shaped by a combination of international standards and regulatory frameworks.
Energy Cybersecurity Standards and Regulatory Frameworks
Energy cybersecurity requirements are defined by standards and regulatory frameworks that address operational technology (OT) environments and security‑critical components used within energy systems.
IEC 62443 – Industrial Automation and Control Systems
IEC 62443 is the primary international standard series for cybersecurity of industrial automation and control systems. It defines requirements for secure system design, component security, risk management, and lifecycle processes across asset owners, system integrators, and product suppliers.
In the energy sector, IEC 62443 is widely applied across power generation, transmission, distribution, and utility environments.
Common Criteria (ISO/IEC 15408) – Component‑Level Security Certification
Common Criteria provides a standardized framework for the independent evaluation and certification of the security properties of individual products and components.
In energy systems, Common Criteria may be applied to security‑critical software and hardware components, such as control devices, communication gateways, and embedded systems, where independent evaluation or certification is required to support regulatory, customer, or supply‑chain requirements.
Software and Hardware Cybersecurity Evaluation for the Energy Industry
Energy systems increasingly rely on complex software and embedded hardware components that must be assessed for cybersecurity risks beyond high‑level compliance with standards.
QIMA provides software and hardware cybersecurity evaluation services for energy‑sector components, supporting the identification, analysis, and remediation of vulnerabilities in industrial control products and connected devices. Evaluation activities are tailored to the product scope, deployment context, and applicable standards.
Cybersecuirty evaluation services may include:
Vulnerability assessment of software and embedded hardware
Penetration testing of energy‑related products and components
Secure design and architecture review
Remediation guidance and re‑testing support
QIMA Cybersecurity Solutions for the Energy Industry
QIMA supports energy sector stakeholders with a comprehensive set of cybersecurity services covering both IT and OT environments.
Our solutions include cybersecurity assessments and testing of industrial control components, secure development and lifecycle support, certification and conformity assessment services, and advisory support aligned with international standards. We help organizations translate complex technical and regulatory requirements into practical actions that support secure operation and regulatory compliance.
QIMA’s integrated approach allows energy organizations to address cybersecurity alongside safety, quality, and regulatory obligations through a single, coordinated partner.
Examples of Energy Systems and Components in Scope
QIMA provides cybersecurity services for a wide range of energy‑related systems and components, including:
Industrial control system components (PLCs, RTUs, IEDs)
Substation and grid communication devices
Smart grid and automation platforms
Energy management and monitoring systems
Connected sensors, gateways, and embedded devices
Why QIMA for Energy Cybersecurity
QIMA combines deep cybersecurity expertise with experience in testing, inspection, and certification across the energy and industrial sectors. Our services are designed to support critical infrastructure environments where availability, safety, and reliability are essential.
With global capabilities and recognized conformity pathways, QIMA helps energy organizations manage cybersecurity risks consistently across assets, projects, and markets.
Resources
In addition to core services, QIMA provides resources to help organizations understand cybersecurity requirements, build internal capability, and stay informed as regulations and threats evolve.
These include:
Events including conference participation, where QIMA cybersecurity experts share insights through live sessions and on‑demand content
Training and workshops for development, security, and compliance teams
Downloads such as guides, infographics, and checklists supporting compliance and security improvement
Blogs providing updates on cybersecurity risks, regulatory developments, and best practices
Newsletters delivering insights and updates directly to subscribers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) addressing common cybersecurity, evaluation, and certification topics
Talk to Our Energy Cybersecurity Experts
Whether you are securing industrial control systems, preparing connected energy products for market, or strengthening OT cybersecurity governance, QIMA can support your organization.