Vulnerability & Risk Assessment as a Capital Planning Tool

Electrical utility companies own and operate a network of systems that support reliable and timely communication between their employees, their fixed and mobile assets, and their office locations. These communications systems, while vital to the efficient operation of the electrical grid, are mutually dependent upon the health of the grid. Without a stable and predictable source of electrical energy, the telecommunications infrastructure cannot operate and execute its role in the transmission and delivery of critical information regarding the status of the electrical system and the situational awareness that operators of the modern electrical grid require.



This presentation will discuss the interdependencies of the various layers, including existing vulnerabilities, risks, potential impacts, and mitigation efforts as they relate to the internal network and communications systems operated by utility companies. While the focus is primarily on electric utilities, the concepts apply broadly to all critical infrastructure operations.



Through a comprehensive assessment of the vulnerabilities within each layer of the telecommunications system and a correlation of their interdependencies, attendees can derive a capital spending plan that addresses the short and long term stability of these systems - focusing resources where they have the largest impact.