LTE Networks enabling utilities to cut costs

In this article, we look at how LTE networks enable utilities to reduce costs while improving connectivity with both their grid assets and their workforce. 

Energy industry require  connectivity for managing “self-healing” grid applications. The energy grid apps collate data from grid assets. The workforce management apps  improve worker efficiency, productivity and safety. These apps are based on cloud. These apps use IoT technologies to make the grid more resilient, sustainable and future-proof. In short, LTE networks must be up and running for utility  industry to run.  

Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology is used in private LTE networks. LTE networks are used for satisfying their requirements of connectivity. Mobile Network Operators use LTE networks for security, coverage, and bandwidth. LTE networks are based on standards which are global and have been incorporated 10 years back. 3rd Generation Partnership project standards body support LTE technology. LTE is like a proof of technology for new 5G technology. Energy industry can use LTE networks for future proofing their network infrastructure for next 10 years. The industry investments in LTE help in maximizing the return on investment.

LTE networks help in managing data from smart grid assets such as sensors, meters, regulators, resources, devices, and drones.  Field work force need this infrastructure to connect to the central system to communicate and collaborate. LTE networks help in cutting down the costs, increasing the safety, and making the smart grid reliable. They help in engaging the customer better and in the generation of the renewable energy. Cyber security is another important component in the system to make LTE networks work. Cyber Security framework.

LTE networks help in the rollout of workforce management, security, and safety solutions related to field force and automobiles. To improve security, identity management, access control management, and activity monitoring solutions are implemented with LTE networks. These networks can be isolated from internet and it is referred to as air gap solution.

Self healing grid can be achieved using LTE network based connectivity which help the  system to collate data from grid assets to increase the productivity, efficiency, safety, and security. Cloud and IOT based solutions help in making the grid self sufficient, reliable, reactive, and ready for next generation grid solutions.