As the energy sector undergoes unprecedented transformation, cybersecurity has become one of the most critical considerations for utilities and grid operators. The rapid growth of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), remote access capabilities and third-party integrations has expanded the attack surface of critical infrastructure, creating new challenges for maintaining security, reliability and resilience.

Strata Grid is a Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) developed by Smarter Grid Solutions that enables utilities to monitor, control and optimise distributed energy resources in real time. By combining advanced forecasting, grid optimisation and automated control capabilities, Strata Grid helps network operators integrate more renewable energy, enhance grid resilience and unlock greater value from distributed resources while reducing the need for costly network upgrades.

As utilities manage increasingly distributed and complex energy networks, maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture is essential. Strata Grid was developed with these challenges in mind, embedding security into its design, development and operational principles. This approach helps utilities modernise their operations with confidence while supporting the transition to a more flexible, connected and resilient grid.

Why Zero Trust Matters for the Modern Grid 

The modern grid is more connected than ever before, creating new opportunities for innovation and new cybersecurity challenges.

Today's utility networks are increasingly interconnected, supporting a growing ecosystem of DERs, external partners and remote operators. Greater connectivity requires a security approach that continuously validates access and monitors interactions across the environment.

Strata Grid combines Zero Trust principles with a defence-in-depth strategy, applying multiple layers of technical and operational controls to reduce the impact of compromised credentials, devices or systems. Access to Strata Grid is governed by least privilege principles, ensuring users, applications and services receive only the permissions necessary to perform their intended functions.

Strata Grid enables critical infrastructure operators to reduce risk and maintain the operational flexibility required to effectively manage an increasingly complex grid environment.

Security you can Validate 

Utilities need confidence that the technologies supporting their operations have been thoroughly evaluated against real-world security risks. 

That's why Strata Grid has undergone independent penetration testing to verify compliance with industry security standards and identify potential vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

For utilities responsible for critical infrastructure, confidence comes from knowing that systems have been challenged, assessed and independently verified. Security is not about hoping systems are protected, it's about demonstrating that protections have been tested and validated.

The security of both Strata Grid and the utilities that rely on it remains a non-negotiable priority.

Built with Security at Every Stage 

Strong cybersecurity begins long before software reaches production.

Strata Grid follows a Secure by Design and Default philosophy, embedding security requirements into every stage of development and ensuring that secure configurations are established from the outset rather than relying on users to enable them later. It is developed and compiled in the UK using a secure software development lifecycle (SDLC) aligned with recognised UK and North American cybersecurity practices. Security considerations are embedded throughout every stage of development, from design and coding through testing, deployment and ongoing maintenance.

Key practices include:

• Secure software development lifecycle processes;
• Dependency tracking and management;
• Continuous monitoring of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs);
• Embedded security champions within development teams;
• Ongoing security governance and oversight; and
• Secure supply chain management, including third-party dependency assessment and monitoring.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, organisations responsible for critical infrastructure increasingly expect secure software development to be a core requirement when selecting technology partners. By embedding security throughout the development lifecycle, SGS ensures Strata Grid is built to high security standards from the outset, providing network operators with greater confidence in the resilience, integrity and long-term security of the platform. 

Compliance Supports Confidence 

Utilities face increasing regulatory and operational expectations around cybersecurity, risk management and resilience.

To support these requirements, Strata Grid is backed by ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified information security management practices and security-focused software development processes.

While compliance alone does not guarantee security, recognised frameworks provide the foundation for strong governance, repeatable security processes, effective risk management, and operational resilience.

For utilities tasked with maintaining reliable service while managing evolving cyber threats, these foundations are more important than ever. By combining these practices with purpose-built operational capabilities, Strata Grid helps utilities strengthen security, support compliance objectives and maintain confidence in the systems that underpin critical infrastructure operations.

Securing the Future of Distributed Energy  

The energy transition is fundamentally changing how electricity is generated, managed and consumed.

As DER adoption accelerates and grids become increasingly digital, utilities require platforms capable of balancing innovation with security. Strata Grid combines real-time operational control, scalability, regulatory alignment, secure development practices, Zero Trust principles, and robust security governance to support this transition.

The future grid will be more connected, more intelligent and more dynamic than ever before. However, that connectivity must be matched by equally robust cybersecurity practices.

Utilities that view cybersecurity solely as a compliance requirement risk falling behind. Those that treat security as a strategic enabler can confidently embrace innovation, support grid modernisation, and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

Beyond cybersecurity, Strata Grid is designed to support operational resilience and safety, helping utilities maintain reliable service and secure operation even during adverse events or cyber incidents.

By placing security at the core of its design, development and operations, Strata Grid helps utilities build a resilient foundation for the future of distributed energy management.

Take a closer look at Strata Grid and its key capabilities here.