Overview

The energy and utilities sector is a critical infrastructure that powers nations, economies and industries. However, as the industry undergoes rapid digital transformation—integrating smart grids, IoT, AI-driven automation and cloud-based SCADA systems—it is also becoming a prime target for cyberattacks. Operational Technology (OT) systems in the energy and utilities sector are the backbone of modern infrastructure. However, as these systems become more connected, they are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. The convergence of IT and OT has created new attack vectors, making robust OT security essential.

In this blog, we will explore the challenges of OT security within the energy and utilities industry, examine how effective OT security solutions can mitigate these risks and discuss how HCLTech empowers organizations to enhance and fortify their OT security posture.

Surge in cyberattacks

According to The Global Cyber Resilience Study 2024-25, 52% of the security leaders in the E&U industry reported their organizations faced a cyberattack in the last 12 months, while an astounding 83% emphasized the likelihood of a cyberattack on their organization in the next 12 months. Securing OT environments is a significant concern, with 57% of security leaders prioritizing it and 62% planning to integrate IT and OT into a unified Security Operations Center (SOC).

Notable incidents

Energy grids and utility networks have become primary targets for nation-state actors, cybercriminals and hacktivists. The Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack (2021) disrupted fuel supplies across the US, The Ukraine power grid cyberattack (2015 and 2016) demonstrated how cyber warfare could cripple national infrastructure, and recent attacks on oil and gas pipelines, nuclear plants, and water treatment facilities highlight the increasing risks.

Challenges in OT security for the energy and utilities sector:

• Legacy systems with minimal security: Many energy and utility companies operate on legacy OT systems designed decades ago, lacking built-in security features. These outdated infrastructures are highly vulnerable to cyber threats and challenging to update due to operational constraints.
• Convergence of IT and OT: Integrating IT and OT networks enhances efficiency but also expands the attack surface. Traditional IT security measures often do not seamlessly apply to OT environments, leaving gaps in protection.
• Increased cyber threats and nation-state attacks: Energy and utilities infrastructures are prime targets for cybercriminals and state-sponsored actors. Attacks such as ransomware, supply chain exploits and zero-day vulnerabilities can cause massive disruptions, leading to economic and societal impacts.
• Compliance and regulatory pressure: Stringent regulations such as NERC CIP, IEC 62443, and NIST guidelines require companies to implement robust OT security measures. Meeting these compliance requirements can be challenging without a comprehensive security strategy.
• Lack of OT security awareness and expertise: Cybersecurity in OT environments requires specialized knowledge. However, many organizations face a shortage of skilled professionals who understand the complexities of securing Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.

How HCLTech addresses these challenges:

• Asset visibility and network segmentation: HCLTech 360° SecureOT framework for asset management and threat detection aids in OT asset discovery and identification, providing granular details of each OT device. It implements real-time asset monitoring and network segmentation, helping organizations identify vulnerabilities, prevent lateral threat movement and establish secure zones within the OT environment.
• Threat detection and incident response: HCLTech 360° SecureOT framework delivers an AI-enabled threat detection suite, utilizing advanced solutions with AI, machine learning and behavioral analytics to identify anomalies and prevent cyberattacks. A well-defined incident response plan ensures rapid containment and mitigation.
• Secure Remote Access (SRA) and Zero Trust architecture: HCLTech SRA solution provides a comprehensive approach to secure access in industrial environments, replacing traditional access solutions and overcoming significant barriers. With remote access essential for maintenance and monitoring, implementing Zero Trust security principles ensures that only authorized personnel can access critical OT systems.
• Regulatory compliance frameworks: HCLTech 360° SecureOT framework is fully compliant and understands organizations' unique challenges in maintaining OT security and regulatory compliance. Aligning with industry-specific security frameworks helps organizations meet compliance requirements while enhancing their overall security posture. We ensure compliance with frameworks such as NERC CIP, IEC 62443, and NIST.
• Workforce training and security culture: Building a strong security culture through continuous employee training and awareness programs ensures that personnel understand the risks and follow best practices to safeguard OT environments.

How HCLTech drives OT security for energy and utilities organizations:

HCLTech 360° SecureOT framework offers end-to-end OT security solutions specifically tailored for the energy and utilities industry. Our framework helps organizations strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and maintain operational resilience. Here's how we achieve this:

1. OT security assessment and risk management 
   • HCLTech conducts comprehensive security assessments to identify vulnerabilities within OT environments 
   • Develop a risk management strategy aligned with industry best practices to address identified risks effectively
2. Managed Security Services (MSS) for OT 
   • Provide continuous monitoring and real-time threat detection
   • Ensure rapid incident response to safeguard critical infrastructure 
3. IT-OT integrated security solutions 
   • Facilitate secure integration of IT and OT systems 
   • Promote seamless operations while minimizing security risks through advanced segmentation and access controls
4. Compliance and regulatory support 
   • Assist clients in achieving compliance with industry regulations such as NERC CIP, IEC 62443, and NIST 
   • Help reduce compliance burdens while enhancing overall security posture
5. Training and Skill Development 
   • Offer security awareness training and specialized OT cybersecurity programs
   • Ensure organizations develop inhouse expertise to manage and mitigate security threats effectively

By employing these strategies, HCLTech ensures that energy and utilities organizations can protect their critical systems from cyber threats while maintaining regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Conclusion: The future of OT security in energy and utilities

The energy and utilities industry faces unique cybersecurity challenges due to the convergence of IT and OT, legacy infrastructure and increasing cyber threats. Implementing robust OT security measures is critical to ensuring operational continuity and compliance.

The evolving cyber threat landscape in energy and utilities requires a shift from reactive compliance to proactive risk management. Key future trends and priorities include:

✅ IT-OT cybersecurity convergence is critical for protecting smart grids

✅ AI-driven risk assessment and automated compliance monitoring will be game-changers

✅ Enterprises will prioritize Zero Trust security, third-party risk management and cyber resilience planning

By implementing best practices, HCLTech provides comprehensive OT security solutions that help organizations mitigate risks, enhance resilience and secure critical infrastructure. We leverage AI-powered automation and real-time cyber risk intelligence so that energy and utility organizations can secure critical infrastructure, protect national security and ensure uninterrupted energy distribution.