Security and privacy in smart grid ecosystems
Ασφάλεια και ιδιωτικότητα σε οικοσυστήματα έξυπνων δικτύων

Doctoral Thesis
Author
Bolgouras, Vaios
Μπολγούρας, Βάϊος
Date
2025-07Advisor
Xenakis, ChristosΞενάκης, Χρήστος
View/ Open
Keywords
Cyber security ; EU regulations ; Smart grid ; Smart contractAbstract
The rapid evolution and widespread adoption of digital technologies have reshaped critical infrastructures, presenting unprecedented opportunities alongside significant cybersecurity challenges. This thesis addresses these challenges by introducing innovative security frameworks that integrate hybrid approaches combining Public Key Infrastructure with Web-of-Trust principles to enhance the resilience and scalability of secure communications, while enabling decentralized trust management and secure energy exchange within smart grid environments. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive analysis of vulnerabilities in Ethereum smart contracts by examining millions of contracts deployed between 2016 and 2024. The analysis reveals prevalent security weaknesses, underscoring the urgent need for improved development practices and stringent security standards in decentralized applications. Moreover, the research explores the interplay among key regulatory frameworks within the European Union, such as the AI Act, GDPR, and NIS2 Directive, advocating for a unified and coordinated governance strategy that promotes ethical standards, transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems. The thesis further identifies the need for an integrated approach, combining technical solutions and regulatory compliance to mitigate risks related to data breaches, algorithmic bias, and privacy violations. This comprehensive exploration aims to foster trust, enhance user empowerment, and protect fundamental human rights, ensuring that AI and digital technologies are developed and deployed responsibly. Ultimately, the research highlights the importance of a cohesive, interdisciplinary strategy to effectively manage emerging threats and advance cybersecurity in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.