At the forefront of protecting critical infrastructure, INL is finding ways to safeguard the nation’s electric power grid, transportation networks, water systems, telecommunications and key industrial facilities.
Operating at the intersection of national security and energy assurance, INL protects vital assets and networks from current and emerging cyber and physical risks, as well as physical vulnerabilities from natural disasters.
INL develops research-driven innovative solutions like intelligent grid sensors, secure control systems and physical barriers to protect the nation’s vital infrastructure, which impacts government, industry and the public.
Capabilities
Infrastructure Tools and Technologies
Infrastructure Testing and Demonstration at Scale
Crititcal Infrastructure Test Range Complex (CITRC)
INL operates its own electrical power transmission and distribution system, 24/7. The grid, which is linked with state-of-the-art SCADA, communications and cyber testing capabilities, is operated under a full range of climatic conditions (temperature, wind, snow, ice, ozone). We can safely isolate sections of the grid and associated infrastructure to conduct full-scale testing of technology, components, systems and processes.
This functioning power grid consists of 78 miles of 138 kV transmission loop distribution that feeds power to the INL and allow our expert staff to configure numerous network topologies to meet any customer’s needs. Within the loop there are multiple feeders, transformers, and seven independent substations. These resources allow us to bring testing out of the theoretical, and into the real world.
Related Facilities
Obsidian Test Pad
Bench-scale Research Labs
Scoville Station
SPERT Substation
Related Energy Programs
Contact Information
N&HS Communications