AEPL was awarded the turnkey contract for implementing a comprehensive SCADA system for a 30MW solar PV plant. The primary objectives included:

• Design and development of SCADA architecture
• Integration of plant equipment (inverters, transformers, weather stations, etc.) into SCADA
• Ensuring compliance with local and international grid codes
• Deployment of cybersecurity best practices
• Delivery of analytical dashboards and reporting tools for plant performance monitoring

AEPL deployed a Schneider Electric-based SCADA platform, incorporating high-availability architecture and remote monitoring capabilities. Key components include:

• PLC & RTU Integration: Schneider Electric PLCs connected to inverters, string combiner boxes, weather monitoring systems, and switchgear
• HMI/SCADA Software: Schneider’s Citect SCADA  platform configured for real-time monitoring and control
• Communication Protocols: IEC 60870-5-104, Modbus TCP/IP, and IEC 61850 used for data acquisition and remote control
• Data Logging & Historian: Long-term data storage using historian servers for compliance and analytics

To meet modern cybersecurity standards, AEPL implemented a cybersecurity-compliant architecture using Schneider’s guidelines and industry best practices:

• Network Segmentation: Physical and logical separation between IT and OT networks.
• Firewalls and VPNs: Secured access control using industrial firewalls and encrypted VPN for remote access.
• User Authentication & Role-based Access: Centralized user management with role-based access control.
• Event Logging and Intrusion Detection: Integrated system audit trail and security monitoring tools.

The system was aligned with IEC 62443 standards and Schneider Electric’s Cybersecurity Framework.

AEPL developed a custom analytical dashboard and reporting suite, tailored to the client’s operational needs:

• Real-time Dashboards: Interactive visualization of energy production, weather data, inverter efficiency, and equipment status
• Historical Data Analysis: Performance trends, degradation tracking, and yield analysis
• Alarm Management: Centralized alarm and event tracking for fault diagnostics and preventive maintenance
• Custom Reports: Daily, monthly, and annual reports exportable in PDF/Excel, aligned with O&M KPIs
• Web-based Access: Secure access from web browsers and mobile devices for off-site users

• Fully functional SCADA system on Schneider platform
• Grid compliance documentation and test results
• Cybersecurity design documentation
• Custom-developed dashboards and reporting tool
• Operation & Maintenance manual and training to local staff
• Remote access configuration and support model

AEPL successfully executed the SCADA integration for the 30MW solar power plant for M/S Arise in Gabon, delivering a state-of-the-art solution meeting all operational, regulatory, and cybersecurity requirements. The project showcases AEPL’s capability in deploying high-performance SCADA systems on international platforms with full grid and security compliance.