From Nextgov.com: Lawmakers would give Energy authority over utilities during cyber emergencies
Stuxnet virus raised fears about electricity grid’s vulnerability to sabotage.
Federal officials, lawmakers and industry leaders have reached consensus that any forthcoming cybersecurity legislation should grant the Energy Department authority to order utilities to take action when there is an emergency threat to critical elements of the electricity grid. Energy is one of many agencies currently brokering a sweeping proposal to guard the government, consumers and international partners against cyber predators.