The European Network for Cyber Security (ENCS) has welcomed ELES, Slovenia's transmission system operator, as a new member to fortify collective efforts in safeguarding Europe's electricity grid against evolving cyber threats.
This collaboration provides ELES with access to ENCS’s shared threat intelligence, specialized training, and technical expertise, enhancing their capabilities in identifying, preventing, and responding to cyber incidents affecting high-voltage networks in Slovenia and beyond.
Pressure on European Grid Operators
This strategic move occurs at a critical time, as European grid operators face increasing pressure.
The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) has outlined in their Threat Landscape 2025 report that operational technology, which forms the backbone of electricity networks, is encountering a growing array of cyber threats.
These incidents are becoming more frequent and sophisticated, emphasizing the necessity of coordinated actions to protect essential infrastructure as nation-state activities escalate and consumer-connected devices broaden the attack surface.
Strengthening Cyber Defenses
“Europe’s power systems are only as strong as their weakest link,” remarked Anjos Nijk, Managing Director of ENCS. He highlighted that ELES's membership fortifies joint defenses and contributes valuable regional expertise.
Given that Slovenia's grid is pivotal to Central Europe's stability, ELES’s involvement is expected to bolster shared strategies and capabilities required to counter the evolving cyber threats.
Collaborative Cybersecurity Efforts
Gorazd Rolih, SOC Manager at ELES, emphasized that "Grid cybersecurity is a team effort." Through ENCS, ELES aims to participate in Europe-wide collaboration by sharing intelligence, best practices, and operational insights, thereby enhancing the collective strength of all members. Rolih conveyed optimism about building the resilience that future energy systems will require.
Highlighting Cybersecurity Needs
This development follows the 8th annual Cybersecurity Forum, recently held in Brussels and organized by ENCS in partnership with E.DSO, EE-ISAC, and the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA).
The event attracted over 200 leaders in the European energy and cybersecurity sectors, underscoring the pressing need to integrate cybersecurity into emerging technologies and reinforce collaboration across Europe’s electricity networks.
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