How Communications Networks Are Powering Utility Modernisation
In Episode 3 of Ceragon Connects, Dori Erann is joined by Bobbi Harris, Executive Director of the Utilities Broadband Alliance, to look at how electric utilities are changing their grids, and why communications networks have moved from the background to the centre of utility strategy. Utilities are managing millions of connected endpoints, distributed energy resources and growing security threats. They now need networks that deliver real-time, secure and resilient connectivity across their whole operation.Bobbi explains why she sees communications as "the first grid", how expectations have moved from periodic data to real-time, near-zero-latency control, and how private wireless networks are changing the way field teams and control centres work together. The conversation also covers the opportunities and risks of AI, the role of communications in physical and cyber security, and practical advice for utilities that are earlier in their modernisation journey.This episode is ideal for utility executives, grid operations and telecom teams, IT/OT leaders, energy infrastructure planners and anyone interested in the future of critical communications.In this episode:Why communications has become a mission-critical backbone for utilities rather than a support functionHow utility data needs have evolved from AMR and 15-minute AMI data to real-time, always-on visibilityWhy Bobbi calls communications "the first grid" and the nervous system of utility operationsThe role of private LTE, 5G and next-generation wireless in enabling the modern gridHow real-time data is changing dispatch, truck rolls and field workforce efficiencyDistributed energy resources, two-way power flows and balancing the gridWaveform identification and predictive analytics explainedWhy every utility now needs an AI strategy, including its cybersecurity implicationsHow communications networks support substation and physical securityBridging the gap between IT, OT and telecom teamsAdvice for utilities starting their network modernisation journeyManaging complexity, multi-vendor environments and deploy-and-operate partnershipsKey TakeawaysCommunications is no longer a background utility function. It is the foundation that grid visibility, control and safety depend on.Utilities need networks built for the use cases of five to ten years from now, not just today's requirements.Real-time data gives control centres and field teams the insight to respond faster, send the right resources and reduce costs.AI will touch almost every part of utility operations, and utilities need a clear strategy that includes cybersecurity.Wireless networks extend fiber's reach to secure remote assets and substations with the same service levels.Successful modernisation starts with business use cases rather than technology, and no utility has to do it alone.Guest BioBobbi Harris is Executive Director of the Utilities Broadband Alliance (UBBA), where she works with utilities across North America to share knowledge, encourage collaboration and tackle common challenges in grid and communications modernisation. She brings investor-owned utilities, municipalities and rural co-operatives together with technology partners, helping them connect operations, IT and telecom teams and learn from one another's experience. Bobbi is passionate about the human side of the utility industry and the communities it serves.About Ceragon ConnectsCeragon Connects explores the ideas, technologies, and industry shifts shaping the future of global connectivity across telecoms, utilities, energy, transportation, public safety, and enterprise networks. 🎧 Follow the podcast for future conversations with industry leaders and innovators.
