OT cybersecurity and device integration for an electrical utility critical infrastructure

Technological advancements in automation architecture within the energy sector have significantly increased operational efficiency. Both the protection and control systems, as well as the communication systems, have evolved, introducing new challenges that were previously not considered. Managing these assets to ensure everything remains under control has become a critical issue. To enhance security in accessing automation assets, Equatorial Group implemented a system called SAGA (Automation Access and Management System) in collaboration with a cybersecurity systems development company. This system uses automatic password change and access control features to ensure all operations have the least possible privilege. Initially, 4,000 devices were integrated, with capabilities for data collection and data persistence in the database to prevent overwriting issues. Additionally, integrating new devices is a continuous activity, with the system currently containing over 6,000 devices distributed across the group’s 7 distributors. These devices already have approximately 40,000 oscillography files and 580,000 saved events, which will not be overwritten. The number of devices continues to grow as new devices are added to the platform.