Once upon a time, when utilities wanted to adopt an on-site private wireless network, the options were limited. But with increasing modernization, digitization, and foundationally globalization, what once was doesn’t quite cut it. High operational costs, security limitations, and even general network incompatibility have started highlighting a need for change.

Enter private long-term evolution (PLTE) technology. PLTE is essentially a network that is restricted to only authorized users. For most people, PLTE is synonymous with 4G related to personal cell usage via commercial carriers. But the scope is much wider. Many utilities have started gravitating towards the concept of modernizing their systems and transitioning over to private networks, particularly in recent years.

The scope of spectrum 
When we look at PLTE, we’re talking about a standards-based approach to communications and for the ability for that standard to be a high-speed, low-latency data network. Historically, most utilities have built purpose-built networks based on older, narrowband technology meaning smaller slices of spectrum. And with this type of spectrum, utilities have developed single-purpose networks to do things such as SCADA or dispatching, for example. However, what utilities are finding is that there is a need for higher speed to push more data, especially as we move towards the grid of the future – and this type of historical spectrum simply does not support changing needs.

For utilities to accomplish what they want to accomplish, spectrum is essential. For starters, it’s the global standard. Where solutions used to be proprietary, there are now multiple vendors to choose from: in fact, many companies are making LTE infrastructure – GE Vernova being one of them. The spectrum required needs to be able to support the technology standard we’re facing. The minimum spectrum needed to support LTE is 1.4 MHz, typically with channel sizes that are even larger for optimal performance.

Trends and takeaways
Currently, there is more traction for PLTE in North America than the rest of the world, particularly in the United States, with two predominant and available solutions to choose from. First is a privately leased solution in the 900 MHz range offered by Anterix, who has petitioned with the FCC and received approval to aggregate smaller channels to have enough spectrum to make a broadband service more widely available. 

In addition, there is another set of spectrum in the range of 3.5 GHz available under the OnGo Alliance which can function as private use or governed by a spectrum allocator (SAS) that grants access to the spectrum. 

These two main solutions are diverse and appealing to utilities for several reasons. To start, the Anterix option is slightly narrower, meaning it can’t provide full capability. However, 900 MHz being lower in frequency, has very good propagation characteristics. Contrarily, the OnGo Alliance option has a much wider bandwidth which equates to higher speeds, but doesn’t propagate as well, leading to higher infrastructure costs to blanket the same geographic area. There is interest and consideration for both: utilities may want to lease the 900 MHz option for critical assets, but fill in some of their coverage with the 3.5 MHz spectrum. 

But with every pro…
There is a con. PLTE, while not short on advantages, does face certain challenges. Companies might have an interest in having this type of network, but not necessarily the appetite to make it happen. There are specific skillsets and costs associated with building this type of privatized infrastructure. Being a relatively complicated process, utilities might not have the internal expertise and rely on EPCs and consultants. As a result, this essential outsourcing is an investment. Moreover, there are supplementary costs of space, and building the core infrastructure and backend network to develop, manage, and operate. However, as we collectively face the grid of the future, it’s fair to say these upgrades are imminent. 

Standardization doesn’t prevent differentiation 
While one could argue that as this type of network becomes standardized, there is less room for differentiation, there are things GE Vernova is doing better. We’ve transitioned to industrial wireless communications with hardened routers and harsh utility specs, while remaining compliant to environmental pillars. Our enhanced cybersecurity features help utilities confront the growing severity and frequency of cyber attacks, protecting their most critical assets. And in tandem with our products are our service offerings, which include local support and manufacturing plants, for supply chain resilience and first-class customer service. 

It is critical for utilities to think about and support the development of PLTE networks both within the U.S. and globally. Are you ready to start?