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Lessons Learned: Telecom

August 21, 2026

One of NERC’s latest lessons learned reveals how quickly things can unravel when oversight gaps exist.

WHAT OCCURRED

During scheduled telecommunications equipment migration at a Bulk Electric System (BES) substation, contract technicians lacked the correct fuses for the new telecommunications rack. Rather than stopping work, the contractors started work on the old telecom equipment beginning with pulling the fuses. When fuses were pulled from the old equipment rack, all DC power was lost to both the old and new racks simultaneously, resulting in loss of visibility to 135 remote terminal units (RTUs).

DURATION & IMPACT

  • 30+ minutes to assess and determine cause
  • Loss of visibility and control to 135 substations fed from the affected BES station

ROOT CAUSE

  • Gap between contractor employee qualifications and utility company operational standards
  • Lack of on-site oversight and material verification
  • Missing pre-work coordination with operations

KEY TAKEAWAYS & LESSONS LEARNED

  1. Contractor Qualifications Are Not One-Size-Fits-All. Critical infrastructure work requires demonstrated expertise, not just general experience
  2. Materials Verification Is a Critical Step. Confirming all required parts are on-site before work begins is fundamental to preventing work sequencing failures
  3. On-Site Oversight with Authority Is Essential. Contractors need a knowledgeable company representative who can observe work and stop unsafe or non-compliant activities
  4. Communication With Operations Is Non-Negotiable. Operations must formally authorize work and maintain visibility throughout execution
  5. Pre-Work Briefs Must Cover Contingencies. When things don’t go as planned, contractors need clear guidance on escalation and when to stop work

For more information on these lessons learned, visit NERC’s Lessons Learned portal or contact GDS Associates for a detailed review of your coordination and oversight practices.