Methodology for the Efficiency and Cybersecurity Improvement of the SCADA Communication Network in EmelNorte Substations

Abstract

This paper presents the development and pilot implementation of the methodological proposal for the improvement to the efficiency and cybersecurity of the SCADA communication network in EmelNorte substations. This is justified by the fact that the modern substations operation requires that the SCADA will become to an open system, which can be integrated with others systems related with administration and management of Energy Business. This situation, on the one hand, bring with it the need for a SCADA communication network that should be characterized by a high availability and efficiency, but on the other hand, as the SCADA becomes an open system, its cybersecurity could be compromised. In this regard, a design methodology for improving efficiency and cybersecurity of the SCADA communication network is developed by taking as references standards IEC-61850 and NERC-CIP-7. This methodology propose design guidelines for: (1) LAN architecture design in substations, (2) administration and management of SCADA communication network, and (3) cybersecurity of SCADA communication network. In order to validate the proposed guidelines, these were implemented in the communication network of substation “El Retorno”, and then efficiency and cybersecurity were evaluated and contrasted to that of network before the implementation. The results show significant performance improvements, and with it the potential benefits of the methodology implementation are evidenced.