Which FERC Order approved the CIP Version 3 set of Standards?

The correct answer is FERC Order 791, which was pivotal in the evolution of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Standards. This order approved the CIP Version 3 standards, which focused on enhancing the security of critical infrastructure in the electric grid. The approval of these standards represented a significant step in the regulatory framework, emphasizing the need for utilities to protect their critical cyber and physical assets against potential threats.

FERC Order 791 specifically addressed concerns regarding the reliability of the bulk power system and mandated measures to ensure compliance with the new standards. The order set clear requirements for the security of systems and processes that control electric power generation and transmission, reinforcing the importance of cyber security in maintaining the overall reliability of the power system.

Understanding the significance of FERC Order 791 is essential for grasping the regulatory landscape surrounding the electrical grid's security and resilience, especially as it relates to safeguarding critical assets from cyber threats.