NERC CIP (North American Electric Reliability Corporation Critical Infrastructure Protection) Low Impact requirements pertain to cybersecurity standards implemented within the electric utility sector. These standards are designed to safeguard low-impact assets, which are deemed less critical to the overall functioning of the electric grid compared to high-impact assets. Low-impact assets may include certain communication networks, support systems, and equipment that, if compromised, could potentially cause a disruption but are not essential for the bulk power system's stability. NERC CIP Low Impact standards aim to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with these assets, ensuring their resilience against cyber threats such as unauthorized access, malware, and data breaches. Compliance with these standards involves implementing various security measures, including access controls, regular system updates, and incident response protocols, tailored to the specific risks faced by low-impact assets.

While low-impact assets may not directly impact the reliability of the electric grid to the same extent as high-impact assets, their protection remains crucial for overall grid resilience. Cyberattacks targeting low-impact assets can still have cascading effects, potentially leading to disruptions in operations, data loss, or compromise of sensitive information. Therefore, adherence to NERC CIP Low Impact standards is essential for electric utilities to maintain the integrity and security of their infrastructure. By proactively implementing cybersecurity measures and continuously assessing and improving their security posture, utilities can enhance their resilience against evolving cyber threats, safeguarding both low-impact assets and the broader electric grid ecosystem.