Digital trust in the context of operational technology (OT) within the energy industry refers to the confidence that individuals and organizations place in the ability of people, technology, data and processes to establish a secure and dependable digital energy ecosystem. Key elements contributing to digital trust include: 

• Trustworthy digital systems: Ensuring that digital systems are reliable, transparent and produce accurate results.  
• Safe application of AI: Benefiting from the opportunities of AI in a safe and reliable manner. 
• Data quality: Ensuring high quality data from data collection to decision-making. High-quality data is essential for informed decision-making. 
• Effective cybersecurity: Implementing robust security measures to safeguard OT systems from cyber threats. This includes protecting critical infrastructure, preventing unauthorized access and detecting anomalies promptly. 
• Data interoperability for efficient collaboration: Enabling seamless data exchange across different OT components, devices and stakeholders. Interoperability enhances collaboration, efficiency, and overall system performance. 

Digital Trust by DNV provides a comprehensive set of methodologies to empower customers in realizing value from digital technologies while maintaining reliability and resilience.

Digital trust is vital for the energy industry, which manages high-risk assets and critical infrastructure essential for society. While digital technologies offer significant value opportunities, they also introduce complexities and risks. Here’s why digital trust matters: 

1. Efficient energy transition: As the energy sector transitions toward cleaner and smarter technologies, digital trust ensures seamless integration of these innovations. Trustworthy systems enable efficient energy production, distribution, and consumption. 
2. Smart energy adoption: With the proliferation of smart energy technologies (such as smart grids, sensors, and IoT devices), maintaining trust becomes paramount. Trustworthy data and systems are fundamental for reliable decision-making. 
3. Data management: Digital trust facilitates effective data handling. Reliable data quality, secure storage and seamless exchange are critical for optimizing energy operations. 
4. Cybersecurity: Trustworthy operational technology safeguards against cyber threats. Robust security measures protect critical infrastructure from breaches, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply. 
5. Regulatory compliance: Trustworthy systems adhere to industry regulations and standards. Compliance builds confidence among stakeholders and ensures responsible energy practices. 

In summary, digital trust underpins reliable and resilient energy systems, supporting sustainable energy transitions.

Digital trust is established and sustained through a series of rigorous assessments aligned with our recommended practices. These assessments identify potential gaps that must be addressed to meet digital trust requirements across the entire digital value chain, spanning from sensor data collection to decision-making. Ultimately, digital trust hinges on three critical factors: 

• Reliable results: Ensuring that the underlying digital technology consistently produces accurate and dependable outcomes. 
• User confidence: Building user confidence by demonstrating transparency, security and reliability in the processes and systems. 
• Business value: Validating that the solution not only meets technical requirements but also delivers tangible business value. 

By addressing these aspects, organizations can foster digital trust, enabling successful adoption and utilization of digital technologies.

DNV’s recommended practices present methodologies for trustworthy application of digital technologies.

The regulatory landscape for the energy industry is diverse, varying across geographies and industry segments. When it comes to digital technologies, regulatory requirements can differ based on philosophical approaches and regional nuances. Additionally, regulatory developments occur at varying paces. Here are some notable regulations and standards relevant to digital trust in the energy sector:

• ISO 27001 Standard Family: These information security standards provide a framework for managing risks related to data security, confidentiality, integrity and availability. ISO 27001 is crucial for ensuring trust in smart energy products. 
• ISO/IEC 62443: This standard series specifically addresses industrial automation and control systems (IACS) cybersecurity. It focuses on safeguarding critical infrastructure, including energy systems, against cyber threats. 
• NIS (Network and Information Systems) Directive: Implemented in the European Union, this directive aims to enhance the security of critical infrastructure, including energy networks. It emphasizes risk management and incident reporting. 
• GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation): Although not energy-specific, GDPR plays a vital role in ensuring data privacy and protection. Compliance with GDPR principles is essential for maintaining trust in data management. 
• Executive orders and national policies: Some countries issue executive orders or national policies related to digital trust and cybersecurity. These may impact energy sector regulations and standards. 
• EU AI Act: The EU Artificial Intelligence Act aims to strengthen Europe’s position in AI, ensuring it respects values, rules and industrial use. It classifies AI by risk, regulates high-risk systems, and mandates development requirements. 

Remember that staying informed about evolving regulations and adapting to changing requirements is crucial for maintaining digital trust in the energy industry.

Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, represents a paradigm shift in manufacturing. It leverages digitalization to enable real-time decision-making, enhance productivity and transform how companies produce, innovate and distribute their products. This revolution embraces technologies like IoT, AI and automation to create agile and efficient manufacturing ecosystems.