Cross Texas Transmission has recently upgraded security at some of its key critical assets in advance of deadlines associated with the NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection standards.
Upgrades to CTT’s security include leveraging a cornerstone solution from Quantum Technology Sciences that uses seismic-acoustic sensors to automatically detect, classify and report on activity around critical assets. Quantum’s sensor systems were integrated seamlessly with existing more traditional security infrastructure to further enhance and provide implementation of more proactive deterrence measures.
“Quantum’s solution gives us situational awareness well outside the perimeter of our assets. This allows our security team to react more quickly and confidently to the actionable information we receive,” says Eric Schroeder, director of operations and maintenance with CTT. “Working with the professionals at Quantum and our integration partner NextGen Security is the culmination of a lengthy effort that will aid us in our CIP compliance. Most importantly, these security measures provide an operational benefit by helping ensure increased security and reliability for customers.”
CTT selected Quantum’s technology because it provides significantly greater detection ranges and lower nuisance alarm rates than are currently available on the market alternatives. Quantum’s technology does not require line of sight, which prevents a threat from being hidden by weather, darkness, terrain, or other obstructions.
“Our mission is to increase operational efficiency, mitigate risk and strengthen the security posture of our customers,” says Quantum CEO Mark Tinker, Ph.D. “This deployment reinforces the importance of assets of all sizes to the overall electric grid and we are glad for the role we can play in our nation’s security.”
Under the CIP guidelines, CTT is bolstering security against possible concerns including theft, vandalism and other malicious activities. NERC has stated that physical attacks to the bulk-power system in the U.S. have the ability to adversely impact operation and stability of the electrical grid.
