2019 R&D 100 Award for Multiparameter Sensor Platform for Cyber-Physical Security of the Electric Grid

ORNL researchers have developed multiparameter sensor platforms that can communicate with utility operators and provide real-time surveillance of the electric grid. These devices, called “Grid Agents,” can help improve situational awareness and protect the grid from cyber-physical attacks.

The sensors have an important dual function. They can monitor several physical parameters related to the operation of the grid, including temperature, solar irradiance and chemical gases like methane and hydrogen. Simultaneously, they relay network communications back to a utility’s IT security system, helping utilities optimize grid function and ensure security.

Grid Agents can be installed or attached to a drone and operated remotely. This innovation can enable grid monitoring after man made and natural disasters, when systems are vulnerable to attack or interference.

Funding for this project came from the DOE Grid Modernization Laboratory Consortium.

The ORNL team was led by Peter Fuhr and included Marissa E. Morales-Rodriguez, Gary Hahn, Kenneth Woodworth and Sterling Rooke.