What happened
The U.S. Department of Energy is preparing to release its first-ever cybersecurity strategy outlining how it plans to strengthen protection of the nation’s energy grid and critical infrastructure. The plan will be led by the department’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) and is expected to define mission priorities, objectives, and performance measures for securing energy systems. Officials said the strategy will align with the broader national cybersecurity strategy and aims to improve coordination across government and industry partners. The initiative reflects growing focus on securing operational technology and energy infrastructure as cyber threats to critical systems continue to increase.
Who is affected
Energy sector organizations, including utilities and infrastructure operators, are affected, as the strategy will shape cybersecurity expectations, coordination, and protections across the U.S. energy ecosystem.
Why CISOs should care
The strategy signals increased federal focus on protecting critical infrastructure, particularly energy systems, and may influence regulatory direction, investment priorities, and collaboration between public and private sector security teams.
3 practical actions
- Track upcoming federal guidance. Monitor the Energy Department’s strategy for new requirements or expectations impacting infrastructure security.
- Assess alignment with national cyber strategy. Ensure existing programs align with broader federal cybersecurity priorities.
- Strengthen OT security posture. Review protections for energy and operational technology environments in anticipation of increased focus.
For more coverage of policy, strategy, and industry-wide developments, explore our reporting under the Cybersecurity tag.