Proposed Hardware Bill of Materials Targets Power Security
A multistakeholder effort aims to secure bulk power systems by standardizing the tracking of hardware supply chain components.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Semiconductors
Live Poll
Should the federal government mandate standardized transparency for hardware components used in the national power grid?
The Institute for Security and Technology is calling for a multistakeholder process to create a standardized Hardware Bill of Materials. This move aims to bolster national security by securing bulk power systems against supply chain risks.
Why it matters
Developing a transparent inventory of hardware components is a strategic step to address security vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. This initiative aligns with federal mandates to restrict foreign influence in the bulk power sector.
The initiative follows a federal request for information issued September 9 to address security in bulk power systems. The scope of technical documentation required for these systems remains subject to ongoing interagency review.
The players
Institute for Security and Technology
A non-profit organization focused on emerging technology policy and security research.
Department of Energy
The federal agency responsible for energy policy, nuclear safety, and the security of the national power grid.
The details
A Hardware Bill of Materials serves as a comprehensive inventory of the components, sub-assemblies, and supply chain origins embedded in physical hardware. By implementing such a framework, stakeholders aim to identify and mitigate risks posed by foreign-sourced hardware in critical infrastructure. This process relies on consensus-based standards to ensure interoperability and verifiable security across the power grid.
Timeline
August 2026: Executive order issued regarding bulk power systems.
August 26, 2026: Department of Energy received directive to prohibit specific foreign transactions.
September 9, 2026: Department of Energy issued a request for information.
The Tech Race
This proposal formalizes a standardized approach to supply chain transparency for critical infrastructure components. It follows the regulatory framework established by the August 2026 executive order on securing bulk power systems.
Energy operators and hardware vendors should expect increased scrutiny regarding the provenance of their equipment supply chains. The transition to a bill-of-materials requirement will likely change procurement workflows for companies supporting bulk power operations.
The takeaway
The move toward a universal Hardware Bill of Materials signals a tightening of security protocols for essential infrastructure. Stakeholders should track future Department of Energy guidance on component disclosure requirements to ensure compliance with emerging federal standards.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving landscape of critical component security in our Semiconductors section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Inside Cybersecurity.
Live Poll
Should the federal government mandate standardized transparency for hardware components used in the national power grid?
