A major Canadian hydropower producer has taken steps to enhance the precision, reliability, and resilience of its power grid synchronization network with the adoption of Adtran's Oscilloquartz grandmaster device and optical cesium atomic clock. This move comes amidst the pressing need for heightened protection against disruptions to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), including potential cyberattacks such as jamming and spoofing, thereby bolstering North America's energy resilience.
Featuring multi-source protection, the enhanced timing architecture offers a zero-trust approach to positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), ensuring robust and accurate synchronization, Adtran said. It also seamlessly supports existing services, enabling a smooth transition from legacy timing to power grids with advanced PTP technology. For streamlined operations and assurance, the synchronization network is remotely managed through the Adtran Ensemble Controller with Sync Director.
“It’s great to be helping another major utility to modernize its timing infrastructure and prepare for next-generation smart grid applications. The transition from traditional TDM to advanced packet-based synchronization marks a significant milestone for this forward-thinking power supplier. The solution will also strengthen its timing network against the growing dangers of relying solely on GNSS,” commented John Scherzinger, GM of Americas sales at Adtran. “The deployment of our advanced grandmaster clock enables the utility to extend reliable timing to Canada’s most remote regions. The superior stability and precision of our optical cesium clock are key to realizing levels of accuracy and resilience never seen before. What’s more, our Ensemble Sync Director system brings the benefits of centralized control, ensuring comprehensive monitoring and simplified operational management. This is essential for maintaining the reliability and security of the utility’s extensive and often remotely located network.”
Gil Biran, GM of Oscilloquartz at Adtran, underscored the importance of the deployment in enhancing cybersecurity and energy reliability within the utility's critical infrastructure. By incorporating Adtran's Oscilloquartz solution, the hydroelectric producer aims to uphold the highest standards of cybersecurity and energy reliability, thereby improving the stability and security of the energy supply across Canada and the US.
The solution includes Adtran's OSA 3350 ePRC+ and OSA 5422, providing the highest precision, stability, and resilience against GNSS vulnerabilities. The digital design of the OSA 3350 ePRC+ utilizes optical-pumping techniques, ensuring long-term timing accuracy and stability, while the OSA 5422 future-proofs the utility's timing network and ensures compliance with governmental regulations.
Biran emphasized the global significance of the utility's adoption of Adtran's technology, setting a precedent for the industry to follow. He reiterated the robust defense offered against GNSS vulnerabilities and the adherence to stringent industry regulations, crucial for safeguarding the integrity of critical network infrastructure and ensuring a consistent and dependable energy future.
