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CIM Users Group – Asia-Pacific 2024 Fall Meeting

The UCA International Users Group invites members of the energy industry to attend the CIM Users Group – Asia-Pacific 2024 Fall Meeting, "CIM as the mechanisms to support the grid modernization and digitalization" on 2-4 October 2024 in Pathum Thani, Thailand.  This meeting will emphasize the use of COM-based data exchanges as part of business proesses and how digitization is changing the utility industry environment.  Whether you are a CIM novice or expert, this meeting will provide a forum to learn more about CIM and network with colleagues.

Key Dates

Call for Presentations Deadeline - 10 September 2024
Early Bird Registration Deadline - 13 September 2024

What Is CIM?

The CIM is an international standard now globally accepted for modeling the information exchanges required in electric utilities. The CIM is independent of any individual application, middleware, or message protocols used for data exchange. The interoperability enabled by the CIM standards is a key factor for achieving the Smart Grid vision.

The CIM Users Group (CIMug) was formed to promote progress of the CIM and to share project experiences. The users group holds two meetings each year (one in Europe and one in the U.S.). Recognized experts share their insights and resolve key technical issues. Each meeting also includes pre-conference tutorials, vendor exhibits, and social networking opportunities.

 

Who Should Attend

Utilities, energy companies, RTO/ISOs and others involved in developing standards-based enterprise information architectures and integration frameworks to meet their business challenges will find this conference invaluable. Project managers, system architects, business and IT managers, and control center personnel will all benefit from this meeting. With the focus on Smart Grid interoperability and distribution applications, vendors with CIM-based products they plan to make available to this community will want to reserve a Vendor Table to demonstrate their products and discuss service offerings.

The meeting is open to all current or potential CIM users – you do not have to be a CIM User Group member to attend. Attendees gain first-hand access to CIM experts and come away with new insights on how to realize the power of CIM-based integration.

 

Meeting Location

Thammasat School of Engineering
Thammasat University Rangsit Campus
99 Moo 18, Phahonyothin Road
Klong Nueng, Klong Luang
Pathum Thani, 12120
THAILAND
Tel: +66 2 564 3001-9, +66 81 847 4149
https://engr.tu.ac.th/

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Margaret Goodrich, President of PCItek, Presented on the Topic “Utility/Substation Relay Cyber Security” at the CIM Users Group – European 2024 Fall Meeting

CIM Users Group – European 2024 Fall Meeting, “Gear Up: Support Business Processes and Boost digitization with the CIM” was hosted by TenneT on 14-16, May 2024 in Arnhem, Netherlands. The event was organized by The CIM Users Group (CIMUG), a subgroup of the UCA International Users Group. CIMUG serves as a forum in which users, consultants, and suppliers are able to cooperate and leverage the IEC CIM international standards to advance interoperability across the utility enterprise. The primary purpose is to share technology basics, best practices and technical resources while Advancing Interoperability for the Utility Enterprise.

The event was attended by utilities, energy companies, RTO/ISOs and others involved in developing standards-based enterprise information architectures and integration frameworks to meet their business challenges will find this conference invaluable. Project managers, system architects, business and IT managers, and control center personnel benefited from this meeting. With the focus on Smart Grid interoperability and distribution applications, vendors with CIM-based products attended and demonstrated their products and discussed service offerings. 

 

The CIM Users Group – European 2024 Fall Meeting was hosted by TenneT, an international provider of three supply security roles which are interconnected and influence each other: security of production in line with demand, security of grid availability and transmission, and security of grid balance.

About PCItek

PCItek specializes in cyber security products and model/data integration for Operations in the utility industry. Their expertise in data exchange models, message payloads, and cybersecurity is unsurpassed. Our solutions streamline operations, enhance security, and ensure reliable energy delivery. PCItek is committed to empowering utilities with cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving challenges of the modern energy landscape.

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IEC 61850 IOP Birmingham 2024

2024 IEC 61850 Interoperability Testing Events

 

​Testing of Tools, PTP over PRP, Client/Server, GOOSE/R-GOOSE, SV/R-SV, and Security
Additionally: IEC 61850 for SCADA (Control Center to Substation)​

​Face-to-Face:      

Set-up September 12-15, 2024
Testing September 16-20, 2024

 

Meeting Location:

Birmingham, AL USA

 

Pricing Information: Home - IEC 61850 IOP Birmingham 2024 (ucaiug.org)

 

For the UCA Group Rate at the Sheraton Hotel in Birmingham, please use the following link: https://book.passkey.com/e/50842630
The Sheraton is walking distance (4 minutes) from the convention center.
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CIM Users Group – North American 2024 Meeting – 29-32 July, 2024

The UCA International Users Group invites members of the energy industry to attend the CIM Users Group – North American 2024 Meeting, "Standards-based Interoperability at the Grid Edge" on July 29-31, 2024 in Richland, Washington USA.

This meeting will emphasize the development, growth, and acceptance of the CIM standard by the industry and explore how that standard has provided techniques and best practices to achieve full data exchange and integration.  Whether you are a CIM novice or expert, this meeting will provide a forum to learn more about CIM and network with colleagues.

Join us for three days of tutorials, technical talks, and networking at our next North American user group meeting hosted by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.  With over 300 days of sun a year, the vibrant Tri-Cities are the perfect destination fo rengaging with other CIM experts, enjoying local wine, and watching the Grand Prix hydroplane Columbia Cup race!

Key Dates

Call for Presentations Deadeline - June 1, 2024
Early Bird Registration Deadline - June 17, 2024

** Non-U.S. Citizens MUST register by the Early Bird Deadline **

What Is CIM?

The CIM is an international standard now globally accepted for modeling the information exchanges required in electric utilities. The CIM is independent of any individual application, middleware, or message protocols used for data exchange. The interoperability enabled by the CIM standards is a key factor for achieving the Smart Grid vision.

The CIM Users Group (CIMug) was formed to promote progress of the CIM and to share project experiences. The users group holds two meetings each year (one in Europe and one in the U.S.). Recognized experts share their insights and resolve key technical issues. Each meeting also includes pre-conference tutorials, vendor exhibits, and social networking opportunities.

 

Who Should Attend

Utilities, energy companies, RTO/ISOs and others involved in developing standards-based enterprise information architectures and integration frameworks to meet their business challenges will find this conference invaluable. Project managers, system architects, business and IT managers, and control center personnel will all benefit from this meeting. With the focus on Smart Grid interoperability and distribution applications, vendors with CIM-based products they plan to make available to this community will want to reserve a Vendor Table to demonstrate their products and discuss service offerings.

The meeting is open to all current or potential CIM users – you do not have to be a CIM User Group member to attend. Attendees gain first-hand access to CIM experts and come away with new insights on how to realize the power of CIM-based integration.

 

Meeting Location

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Discovery Hall
650 Hord Rapids Rd.
Richland, WA 99354 USA
https://www.pnnl.gov/

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U.S. Department of Energy Awards EPRI & PCItek Funding to Strengthen Critical Energy Infrastructure

cybersecurity

SHELL KNOB, MISSOURI, On February 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy announced that EPRI received $5 million to identify new cybersecurity tools and technologies designed to reduce cyber risks for energy infrastructure. The EPRI team, which includes Project Consultants, LLC (DBA: PCItek), will implement new cyber security for the DNP3 AMP standard used by Electric Utilities in North America.

Cybersecurity innovations are necessary to ensure the U.S. energy systems can continue to supply energy to American homes, businesses, and communities. This funding, awarded through DOE’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), will support the Garibaldi Key Distribution and System Management System.

“I am thrilled that PCItek has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy for our commitment to strengthening the security of the utility industry,” said Margaret Goodrich, President of PCItek. “We are proud to provide innovative solutions that support the resilience of our nation’s energy grid against cyber threats. This funding enables us to further develop and implement cutting-edge cybersecurity tools, ensuring a safer and more reliable energy supply for all Americans.”

The Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3) Authentication and Authorization project will leverage PCItek’s expertise in integrating operational systems to develop and implement innovative cybersecurity solutions for critical energy infrastructure. This project aims to advance the security in the relays for utility grids and ultimately strengthen the resilience of the U.S. energy grid against cyberattacks.

As part of the project, the PCItek Garibaldi Key Distribution and System Management System will be extended to provide a management entity (a.k.a. a DNP3 Authority) for the Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3) Authentication and Authorization Protocol (a.k.a. AMP). This project is one of 16 projects selected by CESER to address a wide range of current and emerging cyber threats facing energy systems, including electricity, oil, and natural gas, from generation through delivery and provides centralized security management for DNP3 SAv6.

The power grid faces unique cybersecurity challenges due to its complex infrastructure and reliance on industrial control systems. Threats include physical security breaches, malware attacks, and zero-day exploits. 

Utilities must adhere to strict regulations, such as NERC CIP standards, to protect critical infrastructure. Implementing best practices like access control, network segmentation, and intrusion detection systems can bolster security measures. Staying informed about emerging threats and trends is crucial for maintaining a resilient power grid.

Cybersecurity tools elevate the value proposition of digital substation relays, providing a competitive advantage for OEMs, VARs, and salespeople. Implementation technicians can receive detailed explanations of these cutting-edge security features and functionalities. These advanced solutions empower utilities to safeguard their power grid against cyber threats proactively.

Click here to read more about CESER. Learn more about PCItek’s work in cybersecurity here.

About PCItek

PCItek specializes in cyber security products and model/data integration for Operations in the utility industry. Their expertise in data exchange models, message payloads, and cybersecurity is unsurpassed. Our solutions streamline operations, enhance security, and ensure reliable energy delivery. PCItek is committed to empowering utilities with cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving challenges of the modern energy landscape.

About CESER

The Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) is dedicated to reducing the risk of energy disruptions caused by cyber threats. CESER collaborates with government, industry, academia, and national laboratories to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions. 

The office focuses on research, development, and demonstration projects that enhance information sharing, mitigate cyber incidents, and increase the resilience of the U.S. energy infrastructure. CESER’s work aligns with national priorities and directives to ensure the security of our nation’s energy systems.

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Arnhem 2024: Netherlands Meeting – 14-16 May, 2024

The UCA International Users Group invites members of the energy industry to attend the CIM Users Group – European 2024 Fall Meeting, "Gear Up: Support Business Processes and Boost digitization with the CIM" hosted by Tennet on 14-16 May, 2024 in Arnhem, Netherlands. This meeting will emphasize the use of CIM-baed data exchanges as part of business processes and how digitization is changing the utility industry environment. Whether you are a CIM novice or expert, this meeting will provide a forum to learn more about CIM and network with industry colleagues.​

Hosted by:

What Is CIM?

The CIM is an international standard now globally accepted for modeling the information exchanges required in electric utilities. The CIM is independent of any individual application, middleware, or message protocols used for data exchange. The interoperability enabled by the CIM standards is a key factor for achieving the Smart Grid vision.

The CIM Users Group (CIMug) was formed to promote progress of the CIM and to share project experiences. The users group holds two meetings each year (one in Europe and one in the U.S.). Recognized experts share their insights and resolve key technical issues. Each meeting also includes pre-conference tutorials, vendor exhibits, and social networking opportunities.

Who Should Attend

Utilities, energy companies, RTO/ISOs and others involved in developing standards-based enterprise information architectures and integration frameworks to meet their business challenges will find this conference invaluable. Project managers, system architects, business and IT managers, and control center personnel will all benefit from this meeting. With the focus on Smart Grid interoperability and distribution applications, vendors with CIM-based products they plan to make available to this community will want to reserve a Vendor Table to demonstrate their products and discuss service offerings.

The meeting is open to all current or potential CIM users – you do not have to be a CIM User Group member to attend. Attendees gain first-hand access to CIM experts and come away with new insights on how to realize the power of CIM-based integration.

Meeting Location:

Hotel Haarhuis
Stationsplein 1
6811 KG Arnhem
the Netherlands
Tel: +31 26 442 7441
https://hotelhaarhuis.nl/en​​​​​​​

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Webinar: Simplifying Secure Routable GOOSE & Sampled Values

Applications, Architecture, Configuration & Simulation - Sign up today for a FREE Webinar!

Smart Grid concepts have driven the need to migrate to microprocessor based controls and digital communications. There are several use cases that require interoperable communications within and between utilities as well as industrial complexes such as:

  • Transfer-Trip
  • Remedial Action Schemes (RAS)/System Integrity Protection Schemes (SIPS)
  • Load Shed
  • Blackstart
  • Dynamic Grid Formation
  • Actionable Synchrophasor Exchange

All of these use cases require point-to-multipoint secure communications. Some of the use cases can be extended to integrate between the utility enterprise and the industrial complex.

The routable version of the Generic Object Oriented Substation Event (R-GOOSE) and routable Sampled Values (R-SV) profiles satisfy the security and communication requirements of the utility industry. These profiles allow IP multicast address and advanced route path determination to prevent network flooding. The release of Amendment 1 to IEC 61850 Edition 2 has supplanted IEC TR 61850-90-5, providing enhancements and defect correction.

PROBLEM:

Security configuration and maintenance, in many cases, is viewed as complex and represents an impediment for adoption and deployment. The use of R-GOOSE/R-SV requires that the pairing of published information to subscribers of that information (e.g. a publication group) share a common symmetric key which utilizes a key distribution mechanism as specified in IEC 62351-9.

SOLUTION:

The engineering process of IEC 61850 allows for the configuration of publication groups, destination addresses for the publications, and addresses for key management for that group. The System Configuration Tool (SCT) stores this information in an SCL file that can be used by the Garibaldi Key Distribution Center to simplify security configuration by:

  • Managing large numbers of multicast group keys and policy distribution
  • Managing system Enrollment & Revocation
  • Supporting both centralized and de-centralized environments

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why it’s important to use routable GOOSE and the need for security
  • The concepts of key delivery resiliency
  • Leveraging IEC 61850 SCL to minimize security and system simulation configuration time
  • Learn how to simulate system design and impact of security on a system using Distributed Test Manager (DTM)
  • How to configure Garibaldi (Key Distribution Center) using SCL to save time & minimize configuration mistakes
  • Learn about the separation of security management planes and real time operation planes
  • How in service testing equipment can be used in a secure environment

Who should attend:

  • System Integrators
  • System Engineers
  • IT Network Engineers
  • IT/OT Cyber security personnel
  • Anyone interested in IEC 61850 automation & security

When: July 30, 2020 at 11am EDT