What does the acronym "CIP" stand for in NERC standards?

The acronym "CIP" in NERC standards stands for Critical Infrastructure Protection. This term is central to the efforts of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) to ensure that the bulk electric system is secure from various threats and vulnerabilities, ranging from cyber attacks to physical threats.

Critical Infrastructure Protection standards are designed to establish requirements that safeguard critical assets used in the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity. These standards cover various aspects of security, including risk assessment, workforce training, and incident response, making them essential for maintaining the reliability and security of the electrical grid.

Understanding the focus of these standards enables professionals in the electric power industry to better prepare for and mitigate risks to vital infrastructure, ensuring a reliable power supply for consumers and businesses alike.