Increased Automation vs Cyber Exposure
Integrate zero-trust network segmentation and continuous OT monitoring into every automation deployment phase, satisfying IEC 62443 secure-by-design requirements from the outset.
CyberTRIZ analysis · Energy contradiction C11-EN024 · one of 8,235 worked contradictions published by CyberTRIZ.AI
Regulations
Business Context
Automation improves generation efficiency, operational consistency, equipment reliability, and maintenance productivity. However, increased connectivity between control systems, operational technology, cloud platforms, and remote monitoring environments expands the potential cyber attack surface of generating facilities.
Utilities must therefore increase automation without increasing cybersecurity risk.
EnergyTRIZ Resolution
Rather than treating automation and cybersecurity as separate disciplines, organizations should design secure-by-design operational architectures incorporating network segmentation, zero-trust principles, continuous monitoring, secure remote access, and cybersecurity integrated into every stage of automation deployment.
Applicable TRIZ Principles
Principle 3 – Local Quality applies cybersecurity controls according to asset criticality.
Principle 11 – Beforehand Cushioning establishes protective controls before automation is deployed.
Principle 23 – Feedback continuously monitors operational networks for abnormal behavior.
Expected Outcome
Higher automation reliability
Stronger cybersecurity
Improved operational efficiency
Reduced cyber risk
Better regulatory compliance
Decision Indicators
Early indicators that this contradiction is affecting generation performance include:
Remote connections continue increasing without equivalent security improvements.
OT and IT networks become increasingly interconnected.
Cybersecurity assessments identify expanding vulnerabilities.
Automation projects require repeated security redesign.
Security incidents affect operational technology environments.
Monitoring these indicators helps organizations improve automation while maintaining cyber resilience.