Strengthening Cyber Resilience in the Electricity Sector

As the electricity sector continues to evolve, driven by rising energy demand and the growing reliance on digital technologies, it remains a prime target for cyber threats. The critical role of electricity in powering essential services makes its infrastructure a high-value target for adversaries. Recent incidents have highlighted the increasing sophistication of attacks on operational technology (OT) environments, posing significant risks to service continuity, safety, and national security.

This presentation will provide a comprehensive threat intelligence update specific to the electricity sector, spotlighting real-world attacks, emerging threat vectors, and evolving adversarial tactics. It will also explore the essential controls required to mitigate these risks, with a particular focus on the SANS 5 Critical Controls for ICS Security. These controls offer practical and actionable strategies to strengthen cyber resilience, ensuring operational continuity while safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Participants will gain valuable insights into how a targeted approach to cybersecurity, anchored in proven controls, can effectively mitigate risks in the electricity sector. The session aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance the security posture of their organisations amidst rising energy demands and an increasingly complex threat landscape.

Features

1. Gain a comprehensive update on threat intelligence specific to the electricity sector.
2. Learn about the essential controls needed to mitigate emerging cybersecurity risks.
3. Understand how a targeted cybersecurity approach, grounded in proven controls, can effectively reduce risks.

Speakers

Nikhil Mugi

Tier16 and Astra Cyber are unrivalled in ICS and OT Cyber Security. With deep technical expertise, operational experience and practical implementation capabilities, they distinguish themselves from competitors who primarily identify problems, conduct research, propose solutions, and facilitate changes.

Nikhil is the Director at ASTRA, a specialised ICS/OT Cyber Security Services provider supporting clients across APAC. With over 13 years of experience in cybersecurity, with the last 7 years focused on ICS/OT security working in onshore and offshore environments. Nikhil's experience includes designing and implementing comprehensive cybersecurity initiatives that not only achieve compliance but also strengthen operational resilience. His expertise spans ICS Cyber Security Architecture, Incident Response, Risk Management, and ICS Security Monitoring, with sector experience across Electricity, Renewable Energy, Oil & Gas, Mining, Rail and Manufacturing. Nikhil has worked closely with boards and executive teams to navigate SOCI Act requirements, aligning cyber programs with regulatory and operational priorities.