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Back to Press Releases 19 May 2023

ESB Networks completes process for development of private mobile network

  • Company to work with Sigma Wireless Communications and Nokia to supply and install LTE core network and radio access network
  • The 4G-equivilent mobile network will be an important infrastructural development to enable the delivery of ESB Networks’ “Networks for Net Zero” Strategy and the Government’s Climate Action Plan.

    Issued: 19 May 2023

    ESB Networks announces that it has completed a process to award a contract for the development of a private mobile network. Sigma Wireless Communications will work with Nokia to supply and install the new LTE Core Network and Radio Access Network over a three-year period, with the network expected to be live from Q4 2023.

    This follows from a 2019 decision by ComReg to award a 15-year licence for radio spectrum to ESB Networks. In its recently published Networks for Net Zero strategy, ESB Networks set out ambitious plans to develop the electricity network of the future which will be supported by a dedicated smart-grid telecommunication system.

    Nicholas Tarrant, ESB Networks Managing Director, welcomed the development: “An ever-smarter and agile electricity network is key to delivery of a more sustainable future, with the customer at its core. The purpose-built private telecommunications network now being developed will be a key enabler in delivering integration of renewable energy to the grid, decarbonisation of the electricity network and the electrification of heat and transport amongst other benefits. As such, this private, reliable and secure mobile network will be an indispensable precursor to delivering a Net Zero-ready electricity network.”

    ENDS/

    Note to the editor:

    • A dedicated Smart Grid telecoms network forms part of ESB Networks' Innovation Strategy that will facilitate a more secure, reliable, and sustainable electricity network.   
    • Sigma Wireless Communications was selected after a comprehensive tender process to enter into an agreement to supply this key infrastructure for ESB Networks, with Nokia Solutions & Networks OY as a key subcontractor.
    • ESB Group and ESB Networks strategies require greater visibility and control of the electrical network. A purpose-built telecommunications network is a key enabler for ESBN in delivering integration of renewable energy to the grid, decarbonisation of the electrical network and electrification of heat and transport amongst other benefits. A dedicated Smart Grid telecoms network forms part of ESB Networks Innovation Strategy that aims to bring many benefits to Ireland from an environmental, economic and customer perspective, including:
    • Decarbonisation of the electricity system
    • Enhanced control and visibility of the electrical network
    • Supporting the increased connection of renewable energy on the electricity network
    • Enabling the electrification of heat and transport
    • Facilitating flexibility on the network
    • Faster fault resolution providing a reduction in outage durations