The project, known as Network Security in a Quantum Future, has been awarded £6.2 million to help prepare the energy network mitigate for future quantum computing cyberthreats.
Significant threat
Quantum computing harnesses the rules of quantum physics to process information in new ways, enabling computers to solve certain complex problems that would take today's machines millions of years to crack.
This includes the potential to break current encryption codes, which could pose a serious threat to the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Partnership approach
The University's Quantum Software Lab (QSL) will work in collaboration with the UK’s National Energy System Operator, Cambridge Consultants, Scottish Power Energy Networks and National Gas.
By combining expertise from academia, energy networks and industry, the project will address one of the most significant long term cybersecurity challenges facing the UK’s national infrastructure.
Quantum solutions
The current phase of the project will develop two operational tools, capable of supporting energy companies as they prepare for the transition to a post-quantum landscape.
The first tool is an open-source software solution called Quantum Threat Tracker, which estimates the timelines under which different systems may become vulnerable to quantum attacks.
The second is a solution known as Quantum-Aware Risk Management tool, which provides support for planning the transition to quantum-safe technologies.
Previous research
The development of the tools follows a successful first stage of the partnership which investigated how advances in quantum computing could affect the cybersecurity of energy infrastructures and identified mitigation strategies for energy network operators.
Together, the tools will help energy companies and operators assess quantum risks across a wide range of energy assets and prioritise future mitigation measures.
Edinburgh expertise
Researchers from the Schools of Informatics and Mathematics will contribute their expertise in quantum computing, uncertainty quantification, optimisation and risk modelling to ensure the resulting tools provide robust, actionable guidance for network operators.
Network Security in a Quantum Future is funded through the Strategic Innovation Fund – an Ofgem programme managed in partnership with Innovate UK.