As the electric utility responsible for powering the Games, BC Hydro has worked closely with the Vancouver intelligence community to conduct a full assessment of its electrical infrastructure security—focusing attention on critical infrastructure and iconic BC Hydro targets such as the dams around the province. 

As thousands of spectators flock to the city in the next two weeks, MIR3’s intelligent communication infrastructure will enable BC Hydro to instantly send security updates, threat advisories, and other important messages to its utility officials in seconds via e-mail, phone, or Blackberry PIN-to-PIN.

Notifications will also incorporate MIR3’s two-way response technology that can immediately mobilize employees in the event of a crisis—replacing BC Hydro’s previous security communication involving manual phone tree dialing.

“BC Hydro is obligated to power and protect not just Vancouver residents, but the critical infrastructure around the city regardless of events taking place,” said Doug Powell, manager of corporate security for BC Hydro. “The 2010 Olympic Games present a heightened threat environment. With the help of the Vancouver intelligence community, we’ve taken precautions to ensure power to Olympic venues is not disrupted and that critical assets and structures are safe. MIR3’s inEnterprise is an important tool in this mission in that it allows us to deliver important messages much more effectively to hundreds of people in real time, implementing a wide array of advisories despite events or conditions.”

“The selection of MIR3’s technology to help protect the Olympic community is a validation of our strategy to be the most dependable important message delivery platform in the world, trusted by enterprises of all sizes and industries­—including global energy and utility companies,” said Amir Moussavian, president and chief executive officer of MIR3. “We’re honored to support BC Hydro’s efforts in safeguarding the people of British Columbia, athletes and worldwide visitors during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games by protecting an important part of the province’s critical infrastructure.”

In addition to internal efforts to heighten security, BC Hydro has also worked alongside local and federal police agencies to build new channels for information sharing during the games. BC Hydro has trained law enforcement on electric grid operation, while federal agencies have trained the critical infrastructure owner-operators on counterterrorism and suspicious activity.