Greg Colaluca, General Manager, Intellicene unpacks his predictions for the future of utility security.

Utilities security

Utilities infrastructure keeps the world moving.

From power grids and water treatment plants to gas pipelines and communication networks, these systems are the foundation of our daily lives.

When they run smoothly, no one thinks twice. When they fail, everything stops.

The conversation around securing utilities has never been more pressing, but the challenge isn’t just about stopping threats – it’s about evolving with the landscape.

The teams tasked with protecting these essential operations deal with a mix of old and new challenges. Cyber-threats are rising.

According to Reuters, in the US, cyber-attacks on utilities increased by nearly 70% in 2024, driven by the rapid expansion and digitalization of the power grid.

Physical attacks on substations and pipelines are no longer rare incidents. Regulations are growing increasingly complex.

Meanwhile, the infrastructure is aging, built for a time when security threats were less complex and systems weren’t as interconnected as they are today.

The systems meant to protect these assets often operate independently, making it harder to get a complete picture of risks before they escalate.

This is where the conversation is shifting. Rather than layering new solutions on top of outdated ones, utilities are looking at security differently.

The real opportunity isn’t just in adding more technology – it’s in bringing everything together.

The challenge of a disconnected system

Most utilities companies didn’t design their security systems to communicate with each other.

It wasn’t a priority when many of these facilities were built decades ago, and today, that’s creating real issues.

When security teams are forced to jump between different platforms to monitor access control, video surveillance and alarms, response times suffer. Decisions take longer. Risks go unnoticed.

Fragmented security causes blind spots to appear.

A suspicious person caught on a surveillance camera may not trigger an alert unless someone happens to be watching that feed.

An access control system might flag unauthorized entry, but without connecting it to real-time video or cyber-data, the bigger picture is lost.

Some utilities are already ahead of the curve, moving toward a more unified approach where security is interconnected rather than fragmented and stand-alone.

It’s not about reinventing the wheel but rather ensuring that every part of the security system works together to provide clear, actionable insights.

The opportunity

Security operations should be as efficient as the infrastructure they protect.

Utility leaders are building systems that integrate physical security, cybersecurity and operational data into a seamless environment.

This eliminates inefficiencies and gives security teams complete visibility into potential threats.

Responses happen faster when video surveillance, access control and intrusion detection work harmoniously.

If an unauthorized access attempt occurs, the system can instantly pull up real-time footage, verify credentials and flag anomalies.

Cyber and physical security teams work from the same information rather than operating in separate silos.

This kind of integration strengthens security while improving operational efficiency.

Utilities investing in connected security are seeing real results – faster response times, fewer operational disruptions and better compliance with industry regulations.

Bringing everything under one roof

A unified security approach means every system communicates and shares data in real-time.

Security teams no longer need to switch between multiple screens, log into different platforms or wait for isolated alerts.

Everything is consolidated into a single, clear view of operations.

This shift allows teams to act quickly and make informed decisions.

If an incident occurs, they don’t have to gather scattered information – they already have a complete picture.

That kind of efficiency directly improves reliability, reduces downtime and enhances security across the board.

Utility providers also realize that a unified approach doesn’t require replacing everything at once.

The right security strategy can leverage existing investments, integrating legacy systems into a modern, connected framework.

This saves costs, extends the lifespan of current technology and makes future upgrades easier to implement.

Convergence of technologies

The next phase of utility security focuses on creating an interconnected system that continuously adapts.

Security technology is advancing rapidly and utilities need a foundation that allows them to integrate new tools without disrupting their entire operation every few years.

By linking all of the security tools you need into a single platform, teams gain a level of insight that wasn’t possible before.

Instead of reacting to threats, they can detect patterns, identify vulnerabilities and prevent disruptions before they happen.

A flexible, platform-based approach makes it easier to adopt new capabilities.

Utilities need systems that allow them to evolve without requiring costly overhauls every time the industry shifts.

Integration in action

Energy facilities are one sector that has seen great success in integrating security platforms.

With expansive facilities, valuable assets and ongoing safety concerns, there’s a lot at stake.

We’ve seen firsthand how a massive mining complex transformed its disconnected security operations by implementing an integrated operations center.

A unified approach provided enhanced security, remote control capabilities and greater operational efficiency in monitoring equipment and ensuring safety.

Comprehensive video monitoring and control significantly enhanced safety protocols, reducing the risk to personnel and equipment.

The integration of technologies also led to cost savings through optimized resource utilization and preventative maintenance practices.

The future of utility security starts now

The security landscape for utilities is changing. The companies that adapt will be in the strongest position to meet new challenges.

The next phase of security depends on integration – building a connected, intelligent framework that keeps operations secure, efficient and uninterrupted.

The organizations making these changes aren’t waiting for the next major incident to force them into action.

They are moving now, knowing that a unified security approach is the best path forward.

Utility security leaders face a choice: continue managing security as separate, fragmented systems or build an infrastructure that is ready for the future.

The companies leading this transformation have already made their decisions. The shift to integrated security is happening now.

This article was originally published in the special ISC West 2025 March edition of Security Journal Americas. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.