The Poland-wide rollout follows the successful trial of a 450 MHz proof of concept (PoC) network in operation since April 2019. The smart grid supports PGE’s wide-area operations of energy distribution system operators (DSOs) across Poland.
The 450 MHz band has excellent propagation properties, generous power levels, according to Nokia. It is the band of choice for the support of machine-to-machine communications in the energy sector, including smart meters and wireless SCADA connections e.g. with wind turbines. In the future, the network may also manage distributed energy sources, such as decentralized gas generator sets and energy storage.
Poland is keen to digitalize its energy grid in order to integrate more renewables and distributed energy sources, which require ubiquitous, reliable and safe communications, explained Andrzej Piotrowski, Vice-President of PGE Systems.
“The Nokia PoC has demonstrated that it will meet our needs in terms of coverage, service quality, resilience and long-term availability,” he said. Moreover, private wireless networks in the 450 MHz range are applicable for various industries, including energy and telecommunication.
Nokia has over 6,000 employees in country working in our R&D centers, developing 4.9G and 5G technologies. Hence, the Finish manufacturer is well place to support for the digitalization of the Polish electrical grid.
“Our proof of concept, 5G-ready private network has ably demonstrated the superiority of cellular systems for mission-critical and machine-to-machine communications in these energy-related applications,” said Chris Johnson, Vice-President of Nokia’s Enterprise business.