Implementation of quantum key distribution in an energy control system environment

The availability of quantum computers will make asymmetric cryptographic algorithms vulnerable to hacking attempts. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is one method to distribute keys safely and therewith enable a symmetric quantum safe encryption. The energy sector as part of the critical infrastructure needs to establish communication channels that are safe even against future threads like quantum computing supported hacking. This paper describes a prototype implementation of QKD with ID Quantique SA hardware that enables secure communication between two energy control systems from PSI Software SE.