Distribution SCADA Connectivity
Case Study
SCADA Connectivity for Critical Infrastructure
The Challenge:
Electric, gas, and water utilities rely heavily on SCADA systems to maintain visibility and control over widely distributed infrastructure—including substations, pump stations, and remote-control points. These systems require secure, low-latency communication to support real-time monitoring and control.
However, achieving reliable communications across diverse terrain in the northeastern U.S. presents challenges. Public cellular networks can be unreliable in rural areas or during emergencies, and unlicensed spectrum is vulnerable to interference, potentially disrupting critical utility operations.
A robust, utility-controlled communication layer was needed to ensure the security, reliability, and performance of SCADA operations across electric and gas distribution networks.
The Approach:
A major northeastern electric and gas utility deployed licensed 220 MHz spectrum to modernize its SCADA communications. The 220 MHz band provides long-range signal propagation, strong non-line-of-sight performance, and protection from interference—making it ideal for utility applications.
The utility uses 220 MHz spectrum to link substations, pump stations, and other remote infrastructure across electric and gas systems—supporting timely control, alarming, and operational visibility with minimal infrastructure.
the results:
- Reliable Communications for Grid Devices: The utility now maintains consistent, low-latency communications with reclosers, voltage regulators, and capacitor bank controllers—critical for electric distribution automation.
- Improved Distribution Automation Performance: Real-time visibility and control of grid-edge devices enhances outage response, load balancing, and system reliability.
- Resilient and Secure Operations: Licensed 220 MHz spectrum ensures dependable communications, free from public network dependencies and interference risks.
- Cost-Efficient Wide-Area Coverage: The superior range and signal performance of 220 MHz reduces the need for dense infrastructure, lowering total deployment costs.
By leveraging 220 MHz spectrum, the utility is strengthening its electric grid with reliable distribution automation that supports situational awareness and modern grid operations.
