Resources for Information and Communication Technologies

• 1: Supplemental and Application Projects
• 2: Information, Communication and Cyber Security (ICCS) Laboratory
• 3: Software Tools
• 4: Information, Communication and Cyber Security (ICCS) Quick Reference
• 5: Training
• 6: Technical Leads
• 7: Meeting Schedule

1 - Supplemental and Application Projects

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (P161) SUPPLEMENTAL PROJECTS

Supplemental projects accelerate research application, provide member-specific results, and can be multi-funder or 1-on-1, funded by self-directed utility funds nabling customized results, new process implementation, and technology integration.

Collaborative Supplemental Projects

One-on-One Application Opportunities

For more on supplemental project opportunities, click here. To discuss project ideas, contact Sean Crimmins

2 - Information, Communication and Cyber Security (ICCS) Laboratory

INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND CYBER SECURITY (ICCS) LABORATORY

Evaluating emerging technologies, standards, and protocols, with a focus on interoperability, data integration, telecommunications, cybersecurity and related research

The lab constructed systems that replicate utility environments for testing and training, addressing critical cyber security challenges across integrated security operations centers, substations, DER, and grid-edge devices. With specialized labs dedicated to cybersecurity, DER interoperability, enterprise systems, telecommunications, and advanced metering systems, we accelerate utility innovation and industry standards adoption.

Key Capabilities

Enabling our research

Our ICCS lab is the foundation on which many of our primary research projects and reports are based. Our commitment to conduct objective, vendor-neutral research demands that we have direct access to tools and equipment and are not forced to repeat information gathered from other sources. To the extent possible, we are the original source of the data and insights we share.

Utility access and utilization

We are happy to share our laboratory capabilities with utility members, supporting their needs in cases when the needed internal capabilities don’t exist at the utility. We also share the designs and procedures that we have built so that utilities that are designing their own facilities have the benefits of our learning and developments.

Stakeholder engagement

The ICCS laboratories are used as testbeds to support industry working groups and “plugfests”. These events bring together vendors and integrators to help identify performance, communication, and interoperability issues that might otherwise impede or delay utility projects.

Download the complete lab brochure here

3 - Software Tools

EPRI develops software to implement, test and refine the planning, operations, and protection research results created. This allows members to utilize the methods and algorithms developed in a direct way that can support their day-to-day functions. It is a vehicle for quick transfer of the R&D to application, with potential to save engineering time and reduce costs associated with operating and planning. The DO&P team has an expanding toolset to help utilities assess complex problems while continuously improving our workforce impact.

To learn more about these tools, contact Sean Crimmins

Soon to have AMI simulator and telecom simulator from the TI work.

4 - Information, Communication and Cyber Security (ICCS) Quick Reference

Information, Communication and Cyber Security (ICCS) Quick Reference

5 - Training

EPRI U - Information, Communication Technology and Cyber Security (ICCS) (ICCS)

• Improve performance knowledge – for new and early-in-career engineers and other staff
• Focus areas – Utility Focused Information, Communication Technology & Cyber Security (ICCS)
• Unlimited Access to high-quality, self-paced technical training
• Available on-demand – 20+ video computer-based training courses
• Facilitates professional development hours (PDH) for certifications, licenses, etc.
• Provide a system of record to track completed training high-quality, technically based training
• New Courses added each year

Background, Objectives, and New Learnings

Employee training and education are ongoing needs for utilities, especially as many experienced engineers and subject matter experts are retiring. As the digital transformation and cyber security create new challenges, utilities see a need to train existing employees. Cross-functional training is crucial for developing a well-rounded and cohesive workforce, which in turn accelerates staff productivity.

The objective of this project is to provide high-quality, foundational technical training on Information, Communication Technology & Cyber Security (ICCS) related topics for engineers and other staff. Furthermore, it aims to establish a system of record for both the utility and the individual to track and manage their professional development and training progress.

Benefits

The project includes a combination of training on demand and distance learning training to better meet utility needs by providing instruction on a variety of utility-specific ICCS related topics.

Participants get unlimited access to on-demand computer-based training and videos, as well as distance learning (i.e., virtual instructor-led training) geared toward engineers and other technical staff.

The training material uses EPRI’s state-of-the-art learning management system (LMS), which also maintains individual training records.

Professional development hours (PDH) granted upon completion of the training will help engineers, and others meet the requirements for certifications and career advancement upon successful completion of certain courses.

6 - Technical Leads

Program 161 Technical Contacts

General Inquiries

For general inquiries on EPRI research, please contact askepri@epri.com.

7 - Meeting Schedule

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