Critical Infrastructure Protection: Federal Efforts to Address Electromagnetic Risks
Abstract
I am pleased to be here today to discuss our March 2016 report on federal efforts to address electromagnetic risks to the electric grid. Electromagnetic risks caused by a man-made electromagnetic pulse (EMP) or a naturally occurring solar weather event could have a significant impact on the nation's electric grid as well as other infrastructure sectors that depend on electricity, such as communications. The impact of these events could lead to power outages over broad geographic areas for extended durations. Addressing these events necessitates effective collaboration among multiple government agencies and industry partners, as no single federal program or entity has sole responsibility for addressing electromagnetic risks. In April 2008, the Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse Attack (EMP Commission) issued a report that included over 90 recommendations addressing the preparation for, and protection and recovery from, a possible EMP attack against U.S. critical infrastructure. The majority of these recommendations were made to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and to the Department of Energy (DOE).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 17, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1152202
Entities
People
- Chris Currie
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office