NEWS
Nokia deploys private LTE to Western Power Distribution for smartgrid trials
WPD ’ s ‘ LTE Connecting Futures ’ trial is testing a new LTE network to enable its smartgrid . The 4.9G / LTE core , radio and user equipment were supplied by Nokia for WPD ’ s research at its Test and Development Centre in Taunton , UK .
Phil Rigden , Telecoms Manager , WPD , said : “ Through the challenges posed by the pandemic , we have worked closely with Nokia over the last two years to demonstrate the capability of its 4.9G / LTE private wireless solution to support the operation of our smartgrid including SCADA , voice , video and data services .
“ We have been able to document key learnings to share with the utility industry that confirm the suitability of 4.9G / LTE and 5G to provide the connectivity platform for tomorrow ’ s grid .”
Nokia has announced that it has provided a private 4.9G / LTE wireless network to Western Power Distribution ( WPD ) in the UK . The private LTE network will be used for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition ( SCADA ) testing , as well as other mission-critical systems such as voice services .
WPD ’ s communications network provides secure , resilient and reliable services to support the daily operations of WPD , which distributes electricity to the Midlands , south west and Wales . These services include the use of licensed and unlicensed radio , microwave and fibre networks .
Vodafone expands 5G services
Vodafone Spain has acquired 2x10 MHz of spectrum in the 700 MHz band from the Spanish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation for € 350 million .
The total amount will be payable in a single instalment following the conclusion of the auction process . In addition , a licensing fee of € 15.5 million will be payable each year .
The spectrum acquired has initial holding rights until 2041 , with an automatic renewal with no additional fees for a further 20 years , subject to meeting the licence obligations .
Colman Deegan , CEO of Vodafone Spain , said : “ Vodafone welcomes the improved conditions offered by the government for this spectrum auction , which represents an important step towards achieving a sustainable , economically viable sector necessary for continued investment in connectivity .
“ The new 5G frequencies acquired will enable Vodafone Spain to accelerate the deployment of our leading 5G network in the coming months , ensuring that consumers and businesses can take advantage of Digital Transformation opportunities to support economic recovery after the pandemic .”
Vodafone Spain will use the spectrum to continue offering one of the leading mobile experiences in Spain through its ‘ built right ’ approach to 5G , expanding its footprint and offering better coverage , including indoor buildings .
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