Distributed control system (DCS) upgrade

Requirement overview

The unit’s current control system is more than fifteen years old and spare parts have become progressively harder to source. This call targets a phased migration to a new-generation DCS carried out without halting production.

Background and rationale

Beyond ageing hardware, the current architecture does not properly separate the control network from the office network. The client requires a secure architecture aligned with IEC 62443 alongside the hardware upgrade.

Project objectives

• Complete the control migration without stopping production
• Full redundancy of controllers and the communication network
• Implement a cybersecurity architecture aligned with IEC 62443
• Preserve the existing control logic with complete documentation

Scope of work

• Audit the current control system and document its logic
• Supply the new-generation DCS hardware and software
• Phased migration during planned maintenance windows
• Cybersecurity assessment and remediation of vulnerabilities

Expected deliverables

• Complete documentation of the existing control logic
• Installed DCS with verified redundancy
• Cybersecurity assessment report and remediation plan
• Two years of support and spare-parts supply

Applicant requirements

• Official representation or vendor support authorisation for the DCS
• At least two DCS migration projects in the oil industry
• Team qualified in industrial cybersecurity
• Able to guarantee parts availability for ten years

Evaluation criteria

• Technical architecture and redundancy30%
• Migration plan without production downtime30%
• Price and ten-year cost of ownership25%
• Cybersecurity credentials15%

Call timeline

1. 1

   Call published

   2025-07-06

   The requirement document and the control-loop inventory were published.

2. 2

   Control-room visit

   2025-07-24

   Technical visit to the control room and equipment rooms.

3. 3

   Proposal deadline

   2025-08-11

   Final deadline for uploading the technical and financial proposal.

4. 4

   Audit phase begins

   2025-09-01

   The audit of the current system starts with the selected contractor.