Knowledge management and training approaches for PACS in the era of the energy and digital transition: Terna’s experience

Automation, and Control Systems (PACS) in power transmission networks, increasing their complexity through the integration of renewables, digital technologies, and stricter regulatory and cybersecurity requirements. As a result, Transmission System Operators (TSOs) face growing challenges in preserving knowledge, developing skills, and ensuring long-term workforce adequacy. In this context, Terna considers PACS knowledge management a strategic factor for resilient operations, continuous improvement, and innovation.

The paper presents Terna’s structured approach to PACS knowledge and training management, driven by two main challenges. The first is the multidisciplinary nature of modern PACS, which requires combined expertise in power systems, communications, protection and automation,

SCADA, and cybersecurity, competencies that cannot be fully developed through academic education alone and therefore require on-the-job and experiential learning. The second challenge arises from continuous technological and regulatory evolution, combined with a 1 multi-vendor procurement model and generational workforce turnover, which increase system variability and the need for frequent skill updates and close collaboration with suppliers.

To address these challenges, Terna has defined role-based technical profiles across engineering, procurement, commissioning, and maintenance functions, enabling targeted training. On this basis, an integrated training model has been established, combining internal training, vendorsupported programs, and hands-on experiential learning. Internal courses delivered by experienced staff support knowledge retention and intergenerational transfer, while vendor training ensures up-to-date, product-specific expertise. Practical learning is reinforced through dedicated training platforms that replicate real substation environments.

Beyond formal training, Terna promotes multidisciplinary teamwork and knowledge sharing, fostering collaboration across seniority levels and technical domains, including IT and OT. The training portfolio has also been expanded to cover IT/OT integration topics such as networking, data modelling, operating systems, and cybersecurity, which are now essential for PACS operating within digital ecosystems. Cybersecurity awareness and regulatory compliance are therefore central elements of Terna’s PACS knowledge management strategy.