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SMART INFRASTRUCTURE & CONNECTED ASSETS optimised and to offer new services to cus- tomers with the data collected. We are help- ing utilities to digitilise their infrastructure but also to use the new systems effectively for their particular circumstances. We con- sult with operators on their specific needs and offer them a roadmap for a digital transformation. Ultimately operators need automation in their networks if they are to effectively manage them. They also need to collect data and have connection to external market data. Q What more could network operators do with data they are collecting? A A key use of data is to offer new ser- vices for consumers but there are also NETWORK / 24 / MARCH 2019 Siemens energy management division head of cyber security Volker Distelrath talks to Greg Pitcher about digital networks, data analytics and the importance of simulating cyber-attacks to stay safe. Staying safe and smart Q How can smart power infrastructure help energy companies match supply to demand more efficiently? A There are a lot of changes happening in the industry with renewables com- ing onstream, increasing e-mobility, smart homes and consumers producing their own electricity. So there is a need to optimise supply based on demand. It has historically been easy to predict demand as consumers came home in the evening and turned on TVs and other appliances. This is changing and the supply side is also getting more complicated. If you want to optimise a net- work you need data from your supply, from your market and from external sources. To get that data you need to upgrade your infrastructure; you need to automate your infrastructure that informs you and makes moving energy around the network more flexible. Q How is Siemens helping power companies get more from digital technology, sensors and data? A There is a digital transformation under- way, from the historic model with one- way flows from producer to consumer into one where energy moves in different direc- tions. Siemens offers end-to-end solutions to address the challenges posed by this change; from the early-stage of consulting, to prototyping and design, implementation to operation and (digital) services. All of this with the purpose of keeping networks