I. Requirements Analysis
The rapid advancement of quantum computing poses a serious threat to existing cryptographic technologies. Guided by the strategic requirements of the global energy internet, the power industry adheres to the principles of "security zoning, dedicated networks, horizontal isolation, and vertical authentication." It has issued the "Notice on Matters Decided for Research and Application of Quantum Communication Technology," committing to explore the application of quantum communication technology to achieve technological upgrades and ensure network information security.
Quantum cryptography leverages the principles of quantum mechanics—specifically the no-cloning theorem and the uncertainty principle—to transmit cryptographic information via single photons. Through quantum channels, it enables secure key distribution between authorized users. Unlike public-key cryptosystems, its security is grounded in fundamental laws of quantum physics rather than computational complexity, earning it the designation of unconditional security. This technology provides us with a means of secure, confidential communication that is impervious to eavesdropping and unbreakable.
II. Working Principle
The Gigabit Quantum Key Distribution Terminal is a specialized device for implementing quantum cryptography technology. It employs the internationally recognized Faraday-Michelson (F-1) phase encoding scheme, which has secured patents in China, the United States, Japan, and other countries, along with the First Prize for Technological Invention from the Ministry of Education. This scheme represents the most stable quantum cryptographic communication solution currently available globally. This device utilizes the quantum state properties of light for key negotiation, enabling on-demand, real-time, high-speed, and secure key distribution over long-distance fiber optic links. It provides key read interfaces for upper-layer applications. With a trigger frequency reaching 1GHz, it serves as a core component in wide-area quantum secure communication backbone networks.
III. Features and Functions
1. Repetition frequency: 1 GHz;
2. Communication distance reaches hundreds of kilometers;
3. Directly utilize existing fiber optic network resources to support intelligent key service centers;
4. BB84 key distribution technology with deception mode, real-time line attack detection;
5. F-phase encoding scheme, completely immune to line disturbances.
IV. Typical Applications
1. Secure Communication for Power Dispatch Command Systems: Ensures secure transmission of commands between multi-level dispatch centers (National Dispatch - Regional Dispatch - Provincial Dispatch - Local Dispatch - County Dispatch), preventing command tampering and theft under quantum computing attacks; implements "one-time password" encryption for dispatch work orders and incident handling instructions to guarantee stable grid operation; Protect "four remote functions" (remote measurement, remote signaling, remote control, remote adjustment) data within SCADA systems to prevent hijacking of control commands; provide quantum security for stability control devices and PMUs (Phasor Measurement Units) to ensure grid dynamic monitoring data remains tamper-proof.
2. Substation Security Protection and Monitoring: Encrypt measurement and control signals between substations to enable quantum-encrypted transmission of relay protection signals and stability control signals, preventing "false tripping" and "failure to trip." Protect IEC 61850 protocol communications in smart substations to prevent exploitation of protocol vulnerabilities.
3. New Energy Grid Integration Security Assurance: Secure transmission of aggregated distributed energy sources employs a two-stage quantum encryption approach—"aggregation-access": First, data from dispersed small hydropower stations is aggregated via wireless quantum encryption, then transmitted to the dispatch system through fiber-optic quantum encryption. This provides real-time data protection for intermittent power sources like wind and solar, ensuring new energy sources achieve "plug-and-play security."
4. Security Enhancement for Distribution Network Automation: Strengthen security for distribution terminals by providing quantum-secure services for FTUs (Feeder Terminals), DTUs (Data Terminals), and TTUs (Transformer Terminals). Implement end-to-end encryption between the automation master station and terminals via quantum VPN to safeguard fault location and isolation commands. Intelligent distributed FA (feeder automation) protection integrates quantum encryption with TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) technology to achieve rapid fault location and isolation, ensuring power supply reliability.
