HBKU and Iberdrola collaborate on smart grid cybersecurity

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) will collaborate with Iberdrola Innovation Middle East (ME) on research and development into cybersecurity for the smart grid.

The two are partnering in the hopes of advancing high-impact innovation in sustainable energy.

HBKU, through its College of Science and Engineering (CSE), and Iberdrola Innovation ME will both avail faculty, staff, and resources for a research project focused on security techniques for power line communications.

Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean of HBKU‘s CSE, stated, “This new agreement is based on our long-standing relationship with Iberdrola, which is focused on knowledge-driven innovation. We foresee this cooperation actively contributing to Qatar’s energy transformation with a very positive impact on smart, sustainable cities initiatives.”

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Enhancing smart grid technology

The agreement will see the two work to enhance the technology used in smart grid field deployments in the region. Joint efforts will encompass research studies, intellectual property, and commercial collaboration on smart grid telecommunications and security mechanisms.

Smart grids are regarded as a ‘technological leap’ to advance new models of electricity consumption and decarbonisation. With the ability to operate with energy from renewable resources and incorporate digital technology, the huge volumes of data generated by smart grids require effective security solutions.

Dr. Roberto Di Pietro, professor of cybersecurity at CSE, will extend his expertise to the joint project team of research scientists and smart grid engineers. Expected outcomes include peer reviewed scientific publications, jointly owned patent applications and, ideally, subsequent commercialization.

Santiago Bañales Lopez, Managing Director, Iberdrola Innovation Middle East QSTP commented, “Our agreement with HBKU reflects our commitment to Qatar’s research, development, and innovation system and boosting knowledge in specific areas of science and energy.

“Our collaboration will ensure that our joint efforts are at the forefront of solving Qatar’s energy and environmental challenges by advancing solutions for its smart grid capabilities.”

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