Dispersive Technologies and California ISO Launch First Software-Defined Network for Critical Infrastructure

SAN MATEO, Calif., Aug. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Dispersive Technologies, Inc. has gone live with its new Internet-based, software-defined network for use by California's energy grid operator to efficiently and effectively connect entities using real-time devices to the grid's energy management system. 

Humboldt Redwood Company, owner of a 28.8 megawatt biomass power plant, became the first operator to be brought online with the network. The unit will generate steam and electricity by annually burning approximately 250,000 bone-dry tons of wood waste from the company's sawmill and planer mill in Scotia, California.

"HRC is pleased to be the first California plant using this network," said Jim Pelkey, Humboldt Redwood Company's Chief Financial Officer. "When making the choice, we were especially impressed with the minimal ramp-up time and extensive security measures. Additionally, the support provided by Dispersive Technologies team was excellent."

The new network, developed and operated by Dispersive Technologies, Inc., is being used by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) to connect capacity generation assets to its control system.

"Most network services used to securely transport SCADA data depend on technologies almost 20 years old," said Richard E. Harrison, president and CEO of Dispersive Technologies. "They're slow to deploy, costly to operate, limited in their flexibility to support diverse user groups, and challenging to scale. As a result, these traditional private networks and VPNs no longer represent best practices for protecting data-in-motion. Dispersive™ CISDN (Critical Infrastructure Software-Defined Network) addresses those problems. It offers various parties – regional balancing authorities, utilities, independent power producers, and service companies supporting the power industry – the ability to establish secure virtual network connections to any resource by using any available local Internet access."

Christian Arechavaleta, systems integration engineer for Pacific Power Engineers, a Dispersive Technologies' partner which helped install the network, anticipates more power plants will eventually convert to Dispersive™ CISDN.

"Because Dispersive's CISDN requires only a standard broadband connection to the public Internet," he explained, "it's much easier and less expensive to install than other networks. A utility or cogeneration plant can deploy it in days rather than weeks. And the network's integrated firewall protects field assets and assures highly secure communications."

The Dispersive™ CISDN provides the California ISO with additional capability to secure direct telemetry from generating assets within its service area. The California ISO is also exploring possibilities to include metering and ICCP data streams.

About Dispersive Technologies, Inc.
Dispersive Technologies empowers people, businesses and things to move information across the world with industry-leading security and performance. The company fulfills the promise of connectivity with carrier-grade networking software that eliminates many of the congestions and vulnerabilities of data traveling across the Internet. To learn more, visit http://www.dispersivetechnologies.com/.

About Humboldt Redwood Company
Humboldt Redwood Company was created in July 2008 through the reorganization of the former Pacific Lumber Company and related entities. HRC consist of approximately 327 square miles of coast redwood and Douglas fir forestland spanning 60 Northern California coastal watersheds with about 305 miles of fish-bearing streams and nearly 1,100 miles of streams supporting non-fish aquatic life. The forestlands are located about five hours north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Humboldt County. To learn more, visit http://www.hrcllc.com/about-us/.

About California Independent System Operator Corporation
The California ISO provides open and non-discriminatory access to one of the largest power grids in the world. The vast network of high-voltage transmission power lines is supported by a competitive energy market and comprehensive grid planning. Partnering with over 100 clients, the nonprofit public benefit corporation is dedicated to the continual development and reliable operation of a modern grid that operates for the benefit of consumers. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help meet a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly. To learn more, visit http://www.caiso.com.

About Pacific Power Engineers, Inc.
Pacific Power Engineers was formed by professional, licensed engineers and offers years of experience working with government, utilities, military, and private enterprises. PPE's skilled engineers and technicians offer a range of services in protection relays, arc flash, CAISO revenue metering, project management, and more. The company is committed to reliable, dedicated, competent engineering services and support. As business grows, PPE will work hard to keep these values at the core of its operation. It's a company that believes in teamwork, transparency, and the empowerment of individuals. To learn more, visit www.pacificpowereng.com.

SOURCE Dispersive Technologies, Inc.

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