So far we have studied the use of Distributed Control Systems in Frontier Refineries as a close example of the use of a SCADA-like system in the oil industry. Implementing the capability of satellites to these systems has allowed broadening their utilization potential to other industries, including government and military defense uses within the domain of national security. This can lead us to an analysis of the financial sustainability of these systems for the-at least for now-near future. Based on what we have learned about the oil industry-the need for continuous monitoring and control of diverse assets in the plant/field-we can conclude that the basic functions-pipeline, tank and pump monitoring, leak detection, etc-are operations that will maintain steady usage in spite of fluctuating financial conditions in the oil/gas market. We expect also that, given the conditions of international relations, the military and government need of SCADA systems for anti-terrorism and peacekeeping efforts will not be affected by variations in credit markets. In fact, the more this security around this technology is developed, the more we expect security-sensitive users such as the military will make use of them. We should also consider the possibility that a shift in international relations policies might dampen the demand growth rate for SCADA/Satellite systems.
The sources studied for this report also make another consideration: the uncertain and variable situation in the Middle East and Africa seriously affects not only military activities but also oil and gas interests, increasing the viability and demand of renewable energy sources. We suggest that the implications and effects of the growth in this segment of the energy industry on SCADA/DSC systems are considered for further research.
Furthermore, the implementation of satellites to the SCADA systems has allowed for an