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PRINCETON, N.J., April 8, 2009 — The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) issued the following statement today in reference to cyber security and the electric grid:

“Cyber security is an area of concern for the electric grid. Though we are not aware of any reports of cyber attacks that have directly impacted reliability of the power system in North America to date, it is an issue the industry is working to stay ahead of. NERC and industry leaders are taking steps in the right direction to improve preparedness and response to potential cyber threats. There is definitely more to be done, and we look forward to continuing our work with the electric industry and our partners in U.S. and Canadian government to improve reliability standards, ensure appropriate emergency authority is in place to address imminent and specific cyber security threats, and ultimately ensure a safe, secure, and reliable energy future for North America.”


The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is an international regulatory authority for electric reliability of the bulk power system in North America. NERC develops and enforces reliability standards; assesses adequacy annually via a 10-year forecast and winter and summer forecasts; monitors the bulk power system; and educates, trains, and certifies industry personnel. NERC is a self-regulatory organization, subject to oversight by the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and governmental authorities in Canada. Learn more at www.nerc.com.

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