Utilties are actively modernizing their grid infrastructure to enhance reliability and control, with the overarching goal of creating a ‘smart grid.’ Achieving this vision necessitates deploying numerous access points to collect substantial real-time data on grid status. However, many utilities overlook the critical communication requirements for analyzing this data promptly.

To address this challenge, a comprehensive communications strategy is essential—one that seamlessly integrates both fiber and wireless networks. Efficiency and low latency are paramount. Broadband capacity and speeds achievable through LTE technology become indispensable. This leads to a pivotal decision point: Should utilities rely on public cellular networks or invest in building private LTE networks?

In this session, we will engage with utility leaders who have grappled with these issues. We’ll explore their journey toward PLTE (private LTE) deployment. Some decisions have been met with acceptance, while others faced resistance. Our discussions will delve into the decision-making process, the analytical considerations behind transitioning to LTE (Long-Term Evolution), and the successful realization of these networks