Case Study: a large transmission utility strengthens grid security and CIP-015 compliance with SEL Cyber Services and Dragos INSM deployment

a large transmission utility deploys 450 SEL sensors to strengthen grid security

A large transmission utility in Virginia faced significant logistical and technical challenges in deploying 450 Internal Network Security Monitoring (INSM) sensors across its network to ensure NERC CIP-015 compliance. The scale of the project and a third-party procurement process created delays and visibility issues, threatening its on-time and on-budget completion.

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) addressed this by conducting a FEED study and bringing the manufacturing and configuration of the sensors in-house. This streamlined the supply chain, reduced lead times, and improved coordination. SEL ensured a smooth rollout, providing the utility with a robust, scalable monitoring system. The project's success established a new deployment standard for the utility and generated interest in replicating the model across other business areas.