Cirrus: Cloud Feasibility Assessment Tool for Grid Professionals

Cirrus: Cloud Feasibility Assessment Tool for Grid Professionals

Cirrus is a state-of-the-art cloud feasibility assessment tool developed by Idaho National Laboratory (INL). It is designed specifically for grid and utility professionals and offers strategic guidance for cloud integration, helping utilities enhance their operational resilience and efficiency.

The rise of cloud computing is transforming the energy sector. Utilities, traditionally reliant on in-house IT and OT systems, increasingly adopt cloud solutions for improved data management, communication, and operational efficiency. Smaller utilities seeking rapid modernization also benefit from cloud technology. Cirrus addresses this shift by providing a comprehensive framework for evaluating and planning cloud integration in the energy sector.

Cirrus helps utilities assess the feasibility of cloud integration through a detailed Cloud Integration Assessment. The assessment evaluates:

• Identity and Needs Analysis
• Modernization Goals and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Application Taxonomy and Decomposition
• Benefit and Consequence Analysis

Using user-provided inputs, Cirrus generates a tailored report that includes:

• Use Case Taxonomy: Detailed descriptions and key aspects.
• Mission Critical Functions: Presented in a clear, bulleted format.
• ADMS Applications: Insights into deployment size and cost considerations.
• Visual Representations: KPI graphs, consequence graphs, and radar charts.
• High Consequence Events (HCE): Severity scores for potential impacts.
• Pre-Populated RFI Questions: Guidance for further analysis.
• Data Handling Types: Specific to the use case.

The framework is based on the Cyber-Informed Engineering (CIE) principles developed at INL and incorporates industry feedback, ensuring a practical and informed approach to cloud integration.

Advantages:

• Strategic Guidance: Provides comprehensive analysis and planning for cloud integration.
• Operational Resilience: Enhances the efficiency and resilience of grid operations.
• Tailored Reports: Customizes assessments based on specific user inputs.
• Detailed Insights: Includes visual representations and detailed descriptions for informed decision-making.
• Industry-Informed: Leverages input from leading industry experts and frameworks.

Applications:

• Utility Companies: Evaluate and plan for cloud integration to enhance operational capabilities.
• Grid Modernization: Support rapid modernization efforts for small and medium utilities.
• Third-Party Vendors: Provide tailored cloud solutions for the energy sector.
• Policy and Planning: Aid government and regulatory bodies in understanding the implications of cloud integration.

This software is under copyright. To purchase a license, please use the 'Contact Us' form on this page. We will respond as promptly as possible.