The hydropower plants in Sri Lanka, Rwanda, and Uganda faced a significant challenge: establishing seamless communication between their remote IoT sensors and gateways with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) over an IP network. The goal was to create a network that could handle not just this critical data exchange but also carry the load of IP telephony, CCTV, and other data within the power plants.

The Challenge

With PLCs located inside the powerhouse and sensors deployed in remote locations – Weir, Surge Tanks, Forebay, Desander, Spillway – hundreds of kilometers away, establishing a reliable and robust communication network was no small feat. Moreover, the network needed to support the significant data load, including IP telephony and CCTV.

The VS ONE Solution

Leveraging our expertise in fiber optic networks and IoT technologies, VS ONE designed a dedicated Aerial Fiber network to bridge the distance between the powerhouse and the remote sensor locations. This network facilitated seamless communication between the remote IoT sensors and the PLCs over an IP network.

Results

The implementation of the fiber optic network transformed the communication infrastructure of the hydropower plants. The network not only connected the PLCs with the remote sensors, enabling real-time data exchange, but it also efficiently carried the load of IP telephony, CCTV, and other data within the power plants. This overhaul significantly improved the plants’ operational efficiency and set a benchmark for future projects.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates VS ONE’s commitment to implementing innovative technology solutions to tackle complex challenges. With our unique expertise in fiber optic networks and IoT, we are proud to contribute to the evolution of hydropower plants in Sri Lanka, Rwanda, and Uganda.