Energy companies are taking a closer look at satellite communications services. They can reach remote areas where equipment is stationed. These networks support remote monitoring and provide mobile technicians with a means to complete their work.
These wireless networks rely on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. They can often access locations and deliver connectivity to plants, conductors, or power lines stations stationed  outside of the range of alternatives, like cellular networks and Wi-Fi.
In addition, satellite links function as a replacement for those options or can complement them, for instance, they add redundancy to terrestrial communications networks and provide a second communication option when the primary one encounters a problem.
Why Opt for Satellite Connections?
Mobile technicians often work in rural places. The satellite networks offer them the ability to upload work when in the field. In addition, they can collaborate with experts in the home office when they encounter a problem.
The Internet of Things (IoT) provides energy companies with a second way to leverage satellite communications. They can place sensors on equipment and remotely monitor and track how well the devices function in near real-time. This step can also replace or complement traditional manual inspections.
By adopting the technology, energy companies reduce their operating costs and automate field data monitoring and collection. Furthermore, they help to extend their infrastructure lifecycle.
Satellites can simplify wireless network deployments. Unities rely on multiple wireless network providers. Instead, they move to a single provider. Energy companies then do not juggle multiple contracts.
Finally, this network option uses little power. So, they can be attractive in areas without connections to the grid. Â
Satellite Network Challenges
However, deploying satellite connectivity often proves to be difficult, particularly in very remote areas. Utilities lack easy ingress and egress. Â
Latency is another potential hurdle. Signals travel to and from satellites in orbit, which introduces delays. The latency can be problematic for real-time applications.
These networks tend to have higher costs than alternatives. Their user base is smaller and the equipment quite complicated and complex to build and maintain.
Yet, the number of energy companies adopting satellite communication is rising. The global satellite communication market reached $77.08 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% from 2023 to 2030, according to Grand View Research.
Energy companies need wireless connections to support their field operations. Satellite is an option gaining traction because it works well in remote areas.