Energy Department Plans New Office Of Cybersecurity

What’s the story?

Cyber threats to national infrastructure, particularly energy systems, are a new and likely reality of global conflict. Energy Secretary Rick Perry announced via the department’s website Wednesday that it is opening a new Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response.

The office will be funded by $96 million included in the president’s FY2019 budget, assuming that line item is included in the final budget formulated by Congress.

Secretary Perry highlighted the role of the department in protecting U.S. energy infrastructure, and pointed to the new office’s focus on fulfilling that mission:

"DOE plays a vital role in protecting our nation’s energy infrastructure from cyber threats, physical attack and natural disaster, and as Secretary, I have no higher priority. This new office best positions the Department to address the emerging threats of tomorrow while protecting the reliable flow of energy to Americans today."

What do you think?

Is this new office a good use of taxpayer money? Should Congress support the idea when formulating the FY2019 budget and appropriations bills? What do you see as the greatest vulnerability to U.S. energy infrastructure and how do you think it should be dealt with?

Tell us in the comments what you think, then use the Take Action button to tell your reps!

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— Asha Sanaker

(Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore via Flickr / Creative Commons)