After Attacks on Power Lines, Schuster Calls for Video Technology and Drones to Protect the Grid

Power-grid operators should receive broader powers to protect their facilities after attempted attacks on the electricity network, Saxony Interior Minister Armin Schuster said.

The Christian Democratic Union politician called for intelligent video technology that can trigger alarms and monitor the surrounding area. “They are not allowed to do that today,” Schuster said in an interview with MDR.

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They are not allowed to do that today.

He also wants network operators to be permitted to monitor their facilities over long distances with drones. In his view, that would give them a more effective way to watch vulnerable infrastructure.

Schuster additionally urged a more restrictive approach to information published online. He said extensive details about infrastructure locations, facilities and connections are freely accessible, and argued that authorities are currently too permissive about making such information available. “I believe we need to move to a completely new relationship with this,” he said.

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I believe we need to move to a completely new relationship with this.