Securing the Future: CCUA's SCADA System Revamp
CCUA’s existing SCADA setup was mainly used for reclaimed water operations and it lacked standardization across other utility processes like potable water and wastewater. This fragmentation in their Industrial Control System (ICS) made monitoring, control, and data collection a challenge.
CCUA recognized the need for an integrated SCADA system to enhance efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide centralized monitoring. Understanding the importance of sustainable growth, the utility engaged CDM Smith to develop a strategic, phased implementation plan that prioritized the most critical facilities first. Through a comprehensive SCADA master plan with a ten-year vision, CCUA is making smart, long-term investments that will enhance service reliability while optimizing resources. By proactively planning for the future, CCUA is not only strengthening their infrastructure but also ensuring the best outcomes for their community.
comprehensive assessment and solution
CCUA operates 7 Water Reclamation Facilities and 5 reclaimed water storage facilities throughout their distribution network. These reclaimed facilities are the only portion of the CCUA system currently utilizing SCADA.
Reclaimed system PLC
The team conducted interviews, site visits, and workshops with CCUA's Operations, IT, Engineering, and Executive teams to identify the new SCADA system's requirements. They visited water treatment plants (WTPs), wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs), and lift stations to assess the current SCADA infrastructure. Four workshops covered topics like automation, data needs, cybersecurity, and long-term operational requirements. The team also evaluated the current system and performed a gap analysis to identify differences between the existing state and the desired outcome.
strategic upgrades and implementation strategy
The SCADA master plan focused on standardizing all systems, including WTPs, WWTFs, and reclaimed water processes. Key areas addressed included upgrading the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) hardware and software, implementing standardized Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software, and introducing long-term data storage and automated reporting functionalities. The plan also provided guidelines for robust cybersecurity measures, covering physical security, remote access, and network segmentation. A detailed implementation roadmap was created, prioritizing immediate upgrades for seamless integration and outlining a phased approach to match CCUA's budget.
optimizing efficiency and ensuring future viability
The SCADA master plan improvements will help CCUA achieve greater efficiency, data accuracy, and system reliability. By standardizing hardware, software, and communication protocols, CCUA experienced a more consistent and manageable control system across all facilities.
Enhanced cybersecurity measures will protect critical infrastructure and reduce risks of unauthorized access. Long-term data storage and automated reporting will support better decision-making for daily operations, regulatory compliance, and future planning.
Overall, the roadmap provided by CDM Smith offers CCUA a clear path to phased, cost-effective SCADA system upgrades, aligning with their goal to develop a sustainable utility infrastructure ready for future challenges.
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