Crypto4A Technologies Teams up with Hydro Quebec, Universities, and other Quantum Industry Partners towards a Transformative Smart Grid Project
(Ottawa, ON, April 2024)
Crypto4A Technologies Inc., a pioneering Canadian cybersecurity technology firm, has joined forces with esteemed Canadian universities, Hydro Quebec, and other industry leaders for a groundbreaking collaborative endeavor. This partnership aims to propel research at the crossroads of quantum technologies, post-quantum cybersecurity, deep learning, and smart grids, marking a significant stride in Canada’s technological landscape.
Fueled by a prestigious joint NSERC Alliance-Mitacs Accelerate grant, this project holds promise for substantial advancements in Canada’s quantum and post-quantum security domain. By addressing critical gaps in training, education, and technology transfer, it seeks to fortify Canada’s position at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.
Under the expert guidance of Principal Investigator Dr. Deepa Kundur from the University of Toronto (U of T) and Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Atefeh (Atty) Mashatan from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), the research project boasts a strong lineup of industry collaborators, including Hydro-Québec, Crypto4A Technologies, evolutionQ , and Xanadu.
At its core, the project focuses on harnessing quantum technologies, deep learning, and smart grid applications, all while ensuring that as we migrate to these new technologies and applications they remain secure against quantum based threats. Its primary objectives include pioneering advanced algorithms and quantum computing constructs to revolutionize data analysis from smart grid devices. Moreover, the collaboration endeavors to forge cryptographic solutions resilient against adversaries wielding quantum computing capabilities, thereby safeguarding smart grids against potential threats.
This project highlights the importance of migrating our cybersecurity technologies to a quantum ready state in advance of the fast-approaching quantum era, especially when it comes to our critical infrastructures, said Bruno Couillard, Crypto4A.
As we embark on this collaborative quantum research project, our team is dedicated to advancing quantum technologies for cybersecurity in smart grid applications, fostering innovation and preparing the next generation for the quantum revolution, said Deepa Kundur, University of Toronto.
This collaboration underscores the importance of bridging academia and industry to drive innovation and address critical challenges in protecting the smart grids against emerging cybersecurity threats such as those enabled by a quantum computer, said Atty Mashatan, Toronto Metropolitan University.
At the Hydro-Quebec Research Institute (IREQ), we have been working consistently to develop innovative research strategies for the enhancement of power grid cybersecurity. This collaboration represents a significant leap forward in harnessing quantum technologies for the betterment of our critical infrastructures, said Marthe Kassouf, Hydro-Québec.
Quantum technologies have the potential to revolutionize cybersecurity, and this project is a testament to our collective commitment to advancing this field, said Brian Neill, evolutionQ.
This collaborative initiative serves as a catalyst for research and development activities that transcend traditional boundaries, shaping the academic landscape and industrial applications alike. Aligned with Canada’s National Quantum Strategy and the National Cyber Security Action Plan, the project paves the way for a secure transition plan, facilitating the seamless integration of quantum technologies into Canadian power systems and other critical infrastructures.
The envisioned economic and social dividends stemming from a more resilient Canadian critical infrastructure are boundless.
About Crypto4A
Crypto4A Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cybersecurity technology company providing industry leading, fifth-generation quantum-safe crypto-agile Hardware Security Modules (HSM), Hardware Security Platforms (HSP), and PQC Migration Solutions. Its products and solutions provide processing capabilities for classic and quantum-safe cryptography that is built in — not bolted on. Crypto4A enables the cryptographic agility, mobility, and scalability demanded by enterprises and government agencies to secure their digital assets and infrastructure while adapting to changing markets, standards, and requirements. Please visit: www.crypto4a.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
Robert Grapes
Crypto4A Technologies, Inc
rgrapes@crypto4a.com