Siemens and BCIT to Collaborate on Smart Grid Cybersecurity and Microgrid Research

Siemens and BCIT sign MOU on Smart Grid Cybersecurity and Microgrid Research

August 7, 2016

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Siemens Canada have entered into a new long-term collaborative relationship that focuses on research and commercialization opportunities on smart grid cybersecurity and microgrids.

The two organizations will identify and pursue the application of new technologies in these growing markets.

Recent shifts in the energy landscape in Canada, including the advancement of technologies and connectivity of electrical networks, have opened utilities to the possibility of attacks, compromising the integrity, reliability, and security of these networks. Cybersecurity is a critical and mandatory issue for grid operators today. As the grid becomes more digital, it also becomes more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Under the MOU, Siemens and BCIT’s Centre for Applied Research and Innovation (CARI) SMART group will enable knowledge-sharing and training to address gaps in Canada’s critical public utilities infrastructure. Siemens and BCIT will also focus on the emerging area of smart microgrids:

  • the development of technologies, components, and solutions for cost-effective and environmentally responsible electrification in Canada and around the world
  • how microgrid solutions can address the topics of energy reliability, sustainability, resiliency, or economy

“With energy being one of the world’s most challenging problems, Siemens and BCIT have been collaborating and leading innovation in this field for many years,” says BCIT President Kathy Kinloch. “Our partnership has been very productive and with the signing of this MOU, I am excited to continue working together to develop the effective operation and security for microgrids through solution based research.”

BCIT and Siemens have a long-standing relationship as partners in previous smart grid project, including BCIT’s Smart Grid Laboratory Project and the BCIT Energy OASIS Microgrid Project — the first campus-wide microgrid project in Canada.

“Our energy systems are becoming increasingly complex with rapidly changing technology. The challenges and opportunities presented by smart grids, distributed energy resources and solutions such as microgrids underline the importance of the focus topics being pursued under this MOU,” says Faisal Kazi, Senior Vice President, Energy Management for Siemens Canada. “We look forward to further collaboration with BCIT, utilizing our strong relationship and combined expertise to explore opportunities towards the future of energy in Canada.”

 

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Sonepar Announces Brand Consolidation in Ontario

    Sonepar Announces Brand Consolidation in Ontario

    Sonepar proudly announces the consolidation of their Ontario businesses from five brands to two. Aztec, Dixon and MGM will rebrand as a new and refreshed Dixon. Electrozad and Sesco will carry the new Electrozad brand. “Through many years of continued growth and acquisitions at Sonepar Canada, we have reached an exciting point in Ontario where… Read More…

  • Houle Selected as Electrical and Technology Contractor for the New BC Cancer Centre

    Houle Selected as Electrical and Technology Contractor for the New BC Cancer Centre

    In late August, Houle were proud to announce that they had been selected as the electrical and technology contractor for the new BC Cancer centre at the Royal Inland Hospital campus in Kamloops. Located adjacent to Royal Inland Hospital, this five-storey cancer centre will provide people in BC’s Interior with expanded access to cancer care… Read More…


Peers & Profiles