Multiple substation attacks in North Carolina prompt hearing on grid security

A Republican-led House subcommittee held a power grid security hearing in Moore County, North Carolina on Friday in response to a series of electrical-grid attacks that have left tens of thousands of residents without power. 

The referenced attacks took place in North Carolina and Washington state, where individuals shot up, vandalized or set fire to six substations, leaving approximately 60,000 combined residents without power. 

The Subcommittee on Energy Climate and Grid Security’s hearing was titled “Enhancing America’s Grid Security and Resilience” and focused on how to “better protect [the grid] from attacks, equipment shortages, and other potential risks,” according to a joint statement from Subcommittee Chairman Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., and House Energy and Commerce Chairwoman Cathy Rodgers, R-Wash. 

“America's electrical grid keeps our hospitals, military bases, homes, and businesses powered,” the two wrote in the release. “We must make sure it is secure to keep people safe and our economy moving.”

Several witnesses testified during the hearing, including Duke Energy's security director Mark Aysta, who discussed how the utility giant is working to shore up security and prevent further grid attacks.

During the hearing, Rep. Duncan applauded the state’s legislature for passing legislation on Thursday that hardens penalties for purposefully damaging substation equipment. It’s reportedly being reviewed by Democratic Governor Roy Cooper to sign into law.

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