The U.S power consumers are served by three interconnected systems that ensure continuous and stability of electricity supply. These are; the Eastern interconnection, the western interconnection and the Electricity Reliability Council of Texas (U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2020). These power grids are part of critical infrastructures as they are directly connected to both air and water transport, communication and security systems. Any threat aimed to these systems is a domestic security issue. Therefore, the Federal, states and local governments invest heavily on their protection.
The Department of Energy and the Department of Homeland security works together in protecting grid systems. These departments also engage other security agencies like the FBI in order to ensure there is smooth transmission of electricity (Executive Office of the President, 2016). The DHS goal is to keep America secure and this includes its citizens, resources and infrastructure like the grid system.
The number one threat to grid system failure is cyberattack. Cybersecurity attackers identify loopholes in complex and connected infrastructure systems that are critical in a nation. The attackers aim is to cripple it and in the process affect the nation’s security, the citizen’s safety, the economy and other systems that depend on the targeted system (DHS, 2015). To be ready for any threat or attack on the grid system, the department of homeland security has laid out guidelines of what should be done and by who in case of occurrence of such a disaster. This plan includes preparedness, response and recovery.
The preparedness includes prevention, protection and mitigation plans. This entails working closely with the FBI and other stakeholders in information sharing regarding a possible threat. The DHS encourages even the citizens to volunteer in giving information regarding a plan of attacks. The DHS thwarts attacks plan before they happen. Preparedness also lessens the impact of a disaster by reducing the loss of life and destruction of properties. This step also involves regular resting and inspection of backup generators (DHS, n.d.).
The grid system failure emergency response plan includes issuing of warnings earlier and promptly. The DHS should use the intelligence information available to warn the citizens. The DHS should analyze what can happen in case of an attack on the power system. Resources should be set aside for stabilizing the disaster if it occurs (Ready.gov, 2021). The department should collaborate with other agencies that are of help like state and local fire departments.
