CEA Seeks Public Input On Draft Regulations For Cyber Security In Power Sector

Introduction

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) of India has taken a proactive step in enhancing the cyber security framework of the nation’s power sector by releasing a draft version of the Central Electricity Authority (Cyber Security in Power Sector) Regulations, 2024.[1] This draft has been formulated under the authority of Section 177 of the Electricity Act, 2003, which empowers the CEA to develop regulations to ensure the secure and reliable operation of the electricity grid. With the rapid digitalization of the power sector, the risk of cyber threats has increased significantly, making these regulations a crucial element in protecting critical infrastructure. The CEA is inviting public comments on this draft until 10th September 2024, offering stakeholders an opportunity to contribute to shaping the final version of the regulations. The draft can be accessed online through the CEA’s official website or physically inspected at the Chief Engineer (Legal) office in New Delhi during regular business hours.

Explanation

The draft regulations are designed to take effect six months after their publication in the Official Gazette, although some provisions may have different commencement dates depending on the specific requirements and preparedness of the entities involved. The scope of these regulations is extensive, encompassing all key players within the power sector, including responsible entities, regional power committees, relevant commissions, government bodies, training institutes, and vendors. This broad coverage ensures that all parts of the sector are aligned in their approach to cyber security.

Key Definitions and Scope

The draft regulations provide detailed definitions to clarify the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders. Some of the key terms defined in the document include:

• Accreditation: This refers to the process of verifying an organization’s capability to perform necessary tests and assessments related to cyber security. Accreditation ensures that only qualified entities are involved in evaluating and certifying security measures.
• Certification: Certification involves third-party attestation that an entity or system conforms to specified cyber security standards. This certification is crucial for ensuring that all components of the power sector adhere to a consistent level of security.
• Cyber Assets: Cyber assets are defined as programmable electronic devices that are connected over networks and play a critical role in the operation of the power grid. These assets include control systems, communication networks, and other IT and OT (Operational Technology) systems that could be vulnerable to cyber threats.

Role of the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT)-Power

A cornerstone of the proposed regulations is the establishment of a Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT)-Power. This specialized team will be responsible for developing a comprehensive cyber security framework tailored to the needs of the power sector. The responsibilities of CSIRT-Power include:

• Incident Response: CSIRT-Power will lead the response to any cyber security incidents within the power sector, ensuring a coordinated and effective reaction to mitigate the impact of such events.
• Coordination: The team will work closely with other national cyber security bodies, including the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) and the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC). This coordination is vital for sharing intelligence, aligning strategies, and responding to threats that could affect multiple sectors.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): CSIRT-Power will develop SOPs to standardize responses to cyber threats, ensuring that all entities in the power sector follow best practices in managing security incidents.
• Security Policies and Alerts: The team will also be responsible for issuing security policies and alerts to keep all stakeholders informed about potential threats and necessary precautions. These alerts will be crucial in maintaining a high level of awareness and preparedness across the sector.

Responsibilities of Entities

Under the draft regulations, every entity in the power sector is required to designate a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). The CISO will have a direct reporting line to the senior management and will be accountable for the implementation and oversight of all cyber security measures within their organization. The regulations outline several key responsibilities for these entities:

• Cyber Security Policy: Each entity must have a documented Cyber Security Policy that outlines the organization’s approach to managing cyber risks. This policy should include asset management processes, risk assessment and treatment plans, and measures for protecting sensitive data.
• Security Devices and Risk Assessments: Entities are required to deploy necessary security devices to protect their cyber assets and conduct regular cyber risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Remote Access Security: Special attention is given to securing remote access to cyber assets. With the increasing prevalence of remote work and digital operations, ensuring that remote access points are secure is critical to preventing unauthorized access.
• Cyber Security Audits and Awareness Programs: Regular cyber security audits must be conducted to ensure compliance with the regulations. Additionally, entities are required to implement awareness programs to educate employees and stakeholders about the importance of cyber security and the specific threats they may face.

Establishment of Information Security Division (ISD)

Another significant requirement of the draft regulations is the establishment of an Information Security Division (ISD) within each entity. The ISD will have a dedicated focus on cyber security and will be responsible for a wide range of activities, including:

• Critical Infrastructure Protection: The ISD will implement measures to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats, ensuring that the most essential components of the power grid are secured.
• Policy Review and Security Assessments: The division will regularly review cyber security policies and conduct security assessments to identify and address any weaknesses in the organization’s cyber security posture.
• Asset Management: The ISD must maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of all IT and OT assets within the organization. This inventory is crucial for managing and securing the organization’s cyber assets.
• Incident Reporting: The ISD is also responsible for reporting cyber security incidents to CSIRT-Power and other relevant authorities. Timely and accurate reporting is essential for effective incident management and response.

Cyber Security Policy Components

The draft regulations provide detailed guidance on the components that should be included in an entity’s Cyber Security Policy. These components are designed to cover all aspects of cyber security management, including:

• Asset Management: Processes for managing cyber assets, including identification, classification, and protection.
• Risk Assessment and Treatment: Strategies for assessing cyber risks and implementing treatment plans to mitigate identified risks.
• Personnel Risk Assessment: Procedures for assessing the cyber security risks associated with personnel, including background checks and monitoring of access privileges.
• Vulnerability Management: Processes for identifying, assessing, and addressing vulnerabilities in cyber assets.
• Access Control and Backup Policies: Guidelines for controlling access to cyber assets and ensuring that data is backed up securely to prevent loss in the event of a cyber incident.
• Data Protection and Privacy: Policies for protecting sensitive data, including the use of encryption and secure management of external devices.

Conclusion

The draft Central Electricity Authority (Cyber Security in Power Sector) Regulations, 2024, represent a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to securing India’s power sector against the growing threat of cyber attacks. By establishing clear guidelines and responsibilities, these regulations aim to ensure that all entities within the sector are prepared to effectively manage and mitigate cyber risks. Public input on these regulations is essential to refine and enhance the draft, ensuring that the final version addresses the unique challenges of the power sector while providing robust protection for critical infrastructure. The successful implementation of these regulations will be a significant step towards securing the nation’s energy grid and ensuring the reliable delivery of electricity to all citizens.

[1] https://cea.nic.in/wp-content/uploads/notification/2024/08/Draft_CEA_Cyber_Security_in_Power_Sectyor_Regulations_2024_English_Version.pdf