A Hybrid Encryption Scheme for Advanced Metering Infrastructure Networks

Abstract. Smart grid has been recognized as a promising solution to overcome the limitations in functionality and requirements of the legacy power grid. In order to enable positive transition in providing electricity services, two-way communication between different smart grid devices must be activated. Integrating communication will raise many security concerns. Failure in achieving secure communication will annul the smart grid outcomes. In this research, we exploit hybrid encryption to design a cryptographic scheme for Advanced Metering Infrastructure networks. Elliptic Curve cryptography is known to use shorter key sizes compared to other public key cryptosystems, thereby we utilize Elliptic Curve Encryption for key encapsulation. The proposed scheme is evaluated in terms of computation and communication overhead. Simulation results indicate the validity of the proposed scheme for AMI networks. As of this writing, we are unaware of any efficient hybrid encryption system designed for AMI networks.