As utilities work to modernize the grid, manage rising energy demand and achieve ambitious carbon reduction targets, the role of advanced connectivity has never been more crucial. Private 5G technology provides a pivotal foundation for utilities aiming to establish smart grids, integrate distributed energy resources (DERs) and enable seamless automation for resilient, sustainable energy systems. 

Partnering with Southern California Edison: A first for Private 5G in U.S. utilities

Nokia has joined forces with Southern California Edison (SCE) to launch the first private 5G Field Area Network (FAN) in the electric utility industry. This groundbreaking project marks a significant leap in utility innovation, creating a secure, high-capacity network that will support SCE’s path to a carbon-free energy future.  

We've designed this network specifically to meet the unique demands of utility operations, leveraging SCE's investment in Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum. Our latest 5G radio access, services and core technology, combined with our existing IP/MPLS backbone, ensures high-performance connectivity and reliability for critical utility operations. 

Our cloud-native 5G Core portfolio enables the rapid rollout of new network services across multi-cloud environments, ensuring scalability, security and speed. This technological foundation opens new opportunities for SCE to enhance grid reliability, optimize renewable integration and streamline operations. 

Resulting impact on SCE and its customers 

This private 5G network is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a transformative platform enabling a range of mission-critical applications. From real-time grid monitoring and remote asset management to automated DER management, SCE’s new 5G capabilities open doors to a new era of operational efficiency and grid resilience. 

One key feature of this 5G network is its support for network slicing, which allows different use cases to operate independently, each with dedicated resources. This means that latency-sensitive applications, like emergency response or equipment control, receive prioritized network performance, even during peak demand.  

This flexibility will help SCE meet immediate operational needs while advancing its commitment to deliver more carbon-free electricity to customers. 

Key advantages of a private 5G network: 

• Accelerate smart grid deployment: Real-time grid monitoring, advanced sensors, smart meters and automated controls are deployed seamlessly, enabling faster identification and resolution of issues, leading to more reliable service and fewer outages. 

• Automation at the grid edge: 5G network slicing prioritizes critical grid functions, ensuring essential services receive the highest network performance even under heavy demand. This enhances operational agility and facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources. 

• Enhanced DER integration and renewable energy management: The network enables efficient management of DERs such as solar and wind power, allowing for dynamic resource allocation as energy demand fluctuates, ultimately supporting a greener, more sustainable grid. 

• Improved worker safety and asset management: Field workers are better connected with real-time data, improving situational awareness and response times. Private 5G enhances worker safety by enabling high-quality communications in isolated and challenging environments. 

Setting a new standard for the future 

This partnership between Nokia and SCE is a testament to our shared commitment to driving innovation in the energy sector. Together, we are setting a new standard for grid efficiency, reliability and sustainability, creating a model that utilities worldwide can adopt. 

As a founding member of the Utility Broadband Alliance (UBBA), Nokia is dedicated to supporting utilities globally in developing private broadband networks tailored to their unique needs. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep industry expertise, we deliver private 5G networks that meet the highest standards of security, low latency and resiliency. 

Together, we can build a future where energy is cleaner, more reliable and more accessible to all. 

Interested in learning more? Visit our Power Utilities webpage or check out SCE’s article on the topic for further information.