A Conceptual Model for Mitigating Security Vulnerabilities in IoT-Based Smart Grid Electric Energy Distribution Systems

Smart Grid (SG) systems involves large Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure integrated with the power grid system to allow bidirectional flows of information, for effectiveness and to provide economic and sustainable processes that facilitates constant electricity supplies. As a result of open IoT used in smart grid infrastructure, electricity generation and distribution information are getting more vulnerable to online threats. The need to find effective and mitigating measures to the vulnerability and threats in the systems. As broadband network moves from 4G to 5G networks with its attendant advantages, smart grid interoperability will require a well-structured security strategy to avert cyber-attacks and ensure grid security. Cyber-attack issues are critical factors that need to be understood and mitigating techniques developed to ensure the smooth running of smart grid systems. Research has shown that severe vulnerabilities in the implementation of the smart meter pose a threat to grid infrastructure, as such, it is only when these issues are resolved that we can have a sustainable and realistic smart grid technology. This study addressed these concerns by developing a conceptual model for the mitigation of security vulnerabilities in IoT-based smart grid electric energy distribution systems.