ENEC highlights cybersecurity resiliency as AI takes off in the energy sector at the 2nd CyberEnergy Leadership Forum
23.10.24
- ENEC organizes second edition of Forum to analyze cyber security landscape at the forefront of global standards of excellence
- Forum held in collaboration with United States Department of Energy, bringing together global experts
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Division of Nuclear Security and with support from the US Department of Energy hosted the second edition of the Cyber Energy Leadership Forum (CELF) on October 22 and 23, 2024 in Abu Dhabi.
Drawing experts from diverse sectors, including government, semi-government, and key private stakeholders, the two-day Forum is focused around the cybersecurity challenges posed by the AI revolution to enhance cyber defense and resilience within the energy sector as the digital transformation moves forward, both in the UAE and globally.
The first day of the event focused on a series of keynotes and panel discussions led by world-renowned cyber security and nuclear energy experts. These sessions focus around the new digital world the energy sector operates within, addressing vital issues such as AI integration and cybersecurity, enhanced security protocols for digital transformation and digital resiliency against cyber-attacks. Day 2 of the Forum includes a scenario-based discussion of a hypothetical cyber-attack on critical energy infrastructure using a fictional facility, which is the prelude to a full-scale cyber training exercise that brings together international experts, agencies and key UAE and US stakeholders, set to take place in the coming months.
A global leader in cyber security for the nuclear energy sector, ENEC is committed to the highest national and international standards in the safe and secure operation of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, which operates using advanced, fully digitalized nuclear technologies. Cyber security of the Plant is under the strict regulation of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), ensuring compliance with the highest international standards set by the UAE’s National Electronic Security Authority (NESA).
His Excellency Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ENEC, commented: “With over 430 nuclear operating units globally ensuring facilities are safe and secure is more critical than ever. We must enhance our cyber strategies to maximize technology's benefits while ensuring the highest safety protocols across the nuclear sector and further across all energy infrastructure to ensure we keep life running around the clock. This Forum focuses on this priority, with a strong emphasis on the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling the growing challenges of cyber security. Working with government and private stakeholders is essential to address cyber challenges and ensure the safe operation of nuclear plants such as Barakah, which is now supplying 25% of the UAE’s electricity, 24/7.”
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al-Kuwaiti, Chairman of the Cyber Security Council (CSC), expressed his deep appreciation for the efforts of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation in hosting this important forum. He noted that it comes at a critical time when cyber threats to critical infrastructure, including the energy sector, are on the rise.
He stated that this forum represents an ideal platform for the exchange of expertise and knowledge among experts and specialists in this vital field.
Dr. Al-Kuwaiti emphasized that the CSC places great importance on the cybersecurity of the energy sector, considering it a cornerstone for achieving sustainable development and economic prosperity in the UAE. He affirmed that the CSC is working diligently to develop a comprehensive cybersecurity framework for this sector, aiming to strengthen collaboration between government entities, the private sector, and civil society to build an integrated and robust cyber defense system. He also highlighted the CSC’s efforts to build national capacities in cybersecurity by providing necessary training and qualifications to competent individuals, adopting the latest technologies and security solutions to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, raising awareness about the importance of cybersecurity among all members of society, and promoting a culture of cybersecurity.
Dr. Al-Kuwaiti stressed that the CSC believes that investing in cybersecurity is an investment in the future and contributes to protecting our national achievements.
ENEC's commitment to the UAE's nuclear policy, emphasizing nuclear safety, quality, transparency, and non-proliferation, has gained international recognition from entities including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO).