According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security 85% of the nation’s critical infrastructure is owned and operated by private industry. However, the federal government serves as the focal point for threat assessment, warning, investigation and response for threats or attacks.

Executive Order 13010 emphasized eight critical infrastructures whose services are so vital that their incapacity would have a debilitating impact on the nation’s economy and security.

Managing the vulnerability of our vital infrastructure will require new hardware and software technology, new regulatory approval processes, financial investment and strategic partnerships. In addition, corporations and state and local governments will execute localized solutions including on-site high-availability power options, advanced security, sensor and control systems, personnel dispatch strategies, and community education and communication programs to meet homeland security requirements. .

In the interim, our nation must continue the current approaches to securing our energy infrastructure including promoting fuel flexibility and diversity, increasing on-site power options, conducting vulnerability assessments, enhancing physical and electronic security, and developing emergency response and recovery procedures. These traditional approaches integrated with high-availability technologies and services will ensure the security and reliability of our nation’s energy supply.