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Rapid digitalization of energy systems is essential for enhancing efficiency and managing larger, more complex networks. However, this increased digitalization introduces new cybersecurity vulnerabilities, such as those from digital substations and Wide Area Network (WAN) communication with devices such as Smart Meters and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). Cyber-attacks on critical energy infrastructure, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and wireless communication channels, are becoming more frequent, with a third of industrial control system operators reporting malicious activity in 2021. These attacks can result in equipment destruction, electricity outages, data breaches, and ransom events. 

In response, the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) has launched a cybersecurity initiative to bolster client countries' cybersecurity preparedness and resilience. The cybersecurity study tour was part of the Modernized Energy Infrastructure pillar under ESMAP's Foundations for Decarbonized Energy Systems program. ESMAP's cybersecurity work seeks to aid Transmission System Operator (TSO), Distribution System Operators (DSO), and Ministries of Energy to help reduce grid vulnerabilities, strengthen operational technology (OT) and improve cyber resilience policies. To date, ESMAP has provided cybersecurity capacity-building and technical assistance to over 10 client countries.