As electric utilities continue to evolve, staying ahead of the latest trends in telecommunications infrastructure is vital. The rapid pace of technological advancement, regulatory changes and market demands requires utilities to be proactive and adaptable in dealing with critical infrastructure. Utilities rely on their private networks to communicate during outages, monitor important assets, maintain security and more. Here are six telecom trends shaping utility infrastructure in 2024 and how utilities can navigate related challenges with help from engineer-procure-construct (EPC) firms:
- Diversifying suppliers and packagers. The complexity of telecom projects demands a broader, more resilient supply chain. Utilities face longer lead times for critical components, aggravated by manufacturers discontinuing essential items. Reliance on a single supplier can create bottlenecks and vulnerabilities, especially when unexpected shortages or delays occur. By diversifying suppliers and packagers, utilities can mitigate risks and promote smoother project execution. This approach involves building relationships with multiple vendors and leveraging their collective strengths to maintain project timelines and quality standards.
- Navigating spectrum interference. The decision by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to open 1.2 gigahertz of spectrum for unlicensed use is a double-edged sword for utilities. While it promotes the expansion of Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 technologies, it also introduces significant interference challenges for existing 6 GHz microwave links. Utilities must now explore alternatives such as fiber optics or higher frequency links, like 11 GHz, to maintain reliable communication. This shift requires a careful analysis of the cost, feasibility and long-term benefits so that new solutions can seamlessly integrate into the existing infrastructure while meeting future demands.
- Embracing diversity in spending. A growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion is reshaping utilities' spending strategies. Allocating resources toward Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it reflects a commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. DBEs, which include businesses owned by women, racial minorities, LGBTQ individuals, disabled persons and veterans, bring unique perspectives and innovations. EPC firms play a crucial role in identifying and partnering with these enterprises so that projects benefit from a broad range of skills and viewpoints while supporting local economies.
- Integrating private long-term evolution (PLTE) systems. Integrating private long-term evolution (PLTE) systems represents a significant advancement for utility communication networks. Forward-thinking utilities are investing in PLTE to enhance their communication capabilities while serving their territories most economically. While implementing PLTE systems requires extensive upfront planning, the goal is to create a robust, private communication network that supports critical operations, from grid management to emergency response. This investment in PLTE is a strategic move to future-proof utility communications against the increasing demands of digital transformation.
- Prioritizing digitization and new metrics. The drive toward digitization is shifting how utilities manage power optimization and energy usage. New metrics such as power usage effectiveness, carbon offset tracking and greenhouse gas emission levels are becoming integral to utility operations. However, adopting these metrics requires significant upgrades to telecom infrastructure to support increased collection and analysis of the data. As the energy transition continues to impact utilities, digitization enables providers to monitor and control their systems more effectively, be aware of reduced environmental impacts and better comply with regulatory standards. This trend stresses the importance of modernizing telecom networks to handle the complexities of digital data impacting future decisions.
- Enhancing energy storage and renewable integration. As the shift toward renewable energy sources like solar and wind accelerates, the role of energy storage in utility infrastructure becomes increasingly critical. Energy storage facilities help balance supply and demand, capture excess energy and provide a steady power supply. Integrating these facilities, however, requires advanced telecom systems capable of supporting real-time monitoring and control. This ultimately means the infrastructure must handle the increased data flows associated with renewable energy operations so that utilities can optimize storage and enhance grid reliability. At the intersection of telecom and energy technologies, providers should aim to find technology to support the bandwidth and data introduced to the utility network.
Leveraging EPC Through These Trends
The evolving trends in telecom infrastructure present both challenges and opportunities. Utilities can effectively navigate these trends when partnering with EPC firms and successfully execute their projects cohesively. EPC firms are crucial in supporting utilities by maintaining diverse supply chains to secure resource availability, mitigating interference through alternative communication links and fostering relationships with DBEs to meet diversity goals. EPCs like Burns & McDonnell also provide meticulous planning and execution for PLTE system rollouts while integrating advanced technologies for improved telecom infrastructure, influencing their renewable energy experience to incorporate energy storage solutions into existing infrastructure.
Bottom Line
These trends present both challenges and opportunities for utilities. By staying ahead and leveraging the capability of EPC firms, utilities can safeguard successful project execution, maintain reliable communication networks and achieve their diversity and sustainability goals. Embracing these trends enables utilities to navigate the complexities of modern telecom infrastructure projects while continuing to provide resilient customer services.
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