Nokia has been chosen by Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), the largest three-service municipal utility in the United States, to deploy a comprehensive private 5G wireless network solution. The deployment is part of MLGW’s long-term multi-year grid modernisation initiative across Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee. With this cutting-edge connectivity solution, MLGW targets improving the reliability of power distribution, minimising unplanned outages, and speeding up service restoration for its customers.
This initiative is a national first—MLGW will be the first municipal utility in the U.S. to deploy a full-scale, standalone private 5G wireless network to serve more than 420,000 users. Nokia’s solution will combine and enhance MLGW’s communications for electric, gas, and water services. As a result, the network will offer enhanced connectivity, greater operational efficiency, and an extensible, high-performance network specifically designed for critical applications and future mobility requirements.
Doug McGowen, President and CEO, MLGW, says, “The 5G Network Deployment is a foundational aspect of MLGW’s Grid Modernisation Initiative. We will be able to meet the requirements for a modern electric grid. We will have fast and reliable communication for grid devices; increased reliability during storms or cyber events that will help us restore power even faster after outages. This enables more automation and smart control operations and supports future technology like electric vehicles and battery storage.”
The end-to-end solution will facilitate seamless, real-time communication and automation of MLGW’s operations. It will enable critical applications like automated meter reading, grid monitoring, fault detection, and remote management. Deployment of this private 5G network also sets the foundation for innovations with voice, video services, and connected mobility. Nokia’s technology enables effortless integration with existing infrastructure as well as emerging IoT technologies like smart meters, automation systems, field equipment, and grid sensors, enhancing interoperability.
Jeff Pittman, Head of North America Enterprise, Mobile Networks, Nokia, stated, “This collaboration marks a major milestone in advancing MLGW’s power grid modernization and their commitment to building a smarter, more resilient, and future-ready utility infrastructure for the community. It also underscores Nokia’s leadership in delivering end-to-end private wireless networks that empower utilities to accelerate their digital transformation and enhance service reliability for their customers.”
In the effort for deployment of private 5G wireless networks, Nokia will provide its AirScale radio access equipment and the 5G Core Enterprise solution. The contract also includes installation of towers and a microwave backhaul solution supported by Nokia managed services. Nokia’s NetGuard cybersecurity products will be integrated to ensure threat detection, response, and privileged access management.