New energy-sector reporting requirements could shed light on emerging threats, or tread old ground

Expanding cyber reporting requirements for the energy sector could reinforce regulators' reputation for fostering paperwork rather than security outcomes, according to a former Federal Energy Regulatory Commission official, but current government officials say the move will provide valuable insight into emerging threats across the ecosystem.

FERC is soliciting comment through Aug. 26 -- 60 days out from a June 26 Federal Register notice -- on revisions to the information collection for its mandatory Critical Infrastructure Protection standards.

The notice...