GEISA Fundamentals

Power Your Future with Grid Edge Interoperability and Security.

This course provides a comprehensive, industry-aligned foundation in the GEISA (Grid Edge Interoperability and Security Alliance) Specification—a rapidly emerging standard that is transforming grid edge computing, smart grid modernization, and utility cybersecurity.

GEISA defines a unified, interoperable execution environment along with standard APIs and management interfaces that enable electric utilities to seamlessly deploy secure, scalable applications directly on grid edge devices, including advanced electric meters, distribution automation equipment, and other intelligent field systems. By simplifying cross-vendor integration and strengthening security at the grid’s perimeter, GEISA is becoming a critical technology for next-generation distribution system management, DER integration, and grid resilience.

Through hands-on learning and detailed technical exploration, students will master every component of the GEISA specification—architecture, interfaces, security model, and real-world implementation patterns.

Course Highlights:

• Complete coverage of the latest GEISA specification
• Practice running the GEISA Conformance Tests
• Experience performing Application and Device Management (ADM)
• Demonstrations of all GEISA Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• Hands-on experience with GEISA LEE (Linux Execution Environment)
• Hands-on experience with GEISA VEE (Virtual Execution Environment)
• Clear understanding of GEISA Manifest Files
• GEISA from EDA (Edge Device Agent) to EMS (Edge Management System)

Course Learning Outcomes:

• Hands-on experience with all areas of the GEISA specification
• Evaluate alternative GEISA Execution Environments (Linux and Virtual)
• Implement GEISA applications using the GEISA APIs
• Deploy GEISA applications on GEISA compliant hardware
• Manage GEISA applications and devices
• Students will be fully prepared to work with GEISA-compliant systems and to contribute to the development of interoperable, secure, and future-proof grid edge solutions

Who Will Benefit: 

• Power systems engineers seeking expertise in grid edge technologies
• Utility IT/OT professionals working on smart grid deployment or cybersecurity
• Developers and system integrators building grid-connected applications
• Students preparing for careers in modern electric utility operations

Course Typically Offered: Online in Spring and Fall quarters

Prerequisite: A BS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent knowledge and experience

Contact: For more information about this course, please email unexengr@ucsd.edu