Success Stories
Supporting Hydro-Quebec's Open Networking and Advanced R&D Initiatives
Overview
Hydro-Quebec is evolving its network engineering and research laboratories to support advanced development initiatives based on open technologies. These initiatives span modern cloud architectures, AI-ready infrastructures, and next-generation telecommunications platforms, increasingly built on open-source software.
E.C.I. Networks' Role
E.C.I. Networks supports Hydro-Quebec through a dual role:
- Strategic technology partner with hands-on expertise in open networking software
- Supplier of cost-effective, interoperable network infrastructure
Strategic Expertise in Open Networking
Beyond hardware, E.C.I. Networks brings hands-on expertise in advanced open technologies such as SONiC, P4, SRv6, RDMA, and programmable data planes. This positioning enables meaningful experimentation and validation in Hydro-Quebec's lab.
The SONiC-based platforms introduced in the lab give Hydro-Quebec the flexibility to explore:
- Open and disaggregated network architectures
- Cloud-native and AI-oriented networking models
- Advanced telemetry, automation, and programmability
- Multi-vendor and vendor-neutral interoperability
Open Connectivity Foundations
To support these initiatives, E.C.I. Networks delivered its Open Connectivity portfolio, including interoperable optical transceivers validated across major NEMs and whitebox platforms, along with structured cabling and patch panel systems used to refresh the laboratory environment.
- Optical transceivers: Interoperable optics validated across Cisco, HPE, Juniper, Arista, and whitebox platforms
- Structured cabling: Consistent physical layer refresh for a stable lab foundation
- Patch panel systems: Repeatable connectivity and simplified lab reconfiguration
This combination ensures a stable, repeatable physical layer while allowing development teams to focus on higher-level software and architectural innovation.
Results
- A modern lab aligned with open-source and open-networking principles
- Platforms that support advanced R&D in cloud, AI, and telecom domains
- Reduced dependency on proprietary ecosystems
- A flexible foundation for current and future development projects
"The introduction of SONiC-based platforms and open connectivity solutions allows us to stay at the forefront of cloud, AI, and telecommunications technologies built on open-source software. E.C.I. Networks brings both the technical expertise and the infrastructure needed to support our development initiatives."Jean-Guy, Hydro-Quebec