Modernizing the electric grid demands a communications foundation that is secure, scalable, and future-ready. Private LTE networks are emerging as a key enabler of this transformation, giving utilities with greater control, resilience, and flexibility than traditional public networks.

This session will explore the critical factors utilities must address when planning, designing, and deploying Private LTE networks - including spectrum acquisition, network architecture design, cybersecurity requirements, device ecosystem readiness, and integration with existing operational systems. Panelists will share  real-world deployments, highlighting both technical and organizational challenges.

Attendees will gain practical guidance on leveraging Private LTE to reduce operational costs, enhance grid reliability, and accelerate the shift toward a more decentralized, decarbonized, and digitized energy system.

Explore how Itron’s Intelligent Connectivity Suite is evolving to meet today’s use cases and needs while continuing to deliver secure, scalable, and interoperable solutions for utilities and smart cities. This session will delve into the suite's multi-transport capabilities, including RF mesh, cellular, and private LTE, and its support for critical applications such as grid modernization, distributed energy resource integration, and advanced metering. Learn how Itron's roadmap emphasizes backward compatibility, standards-based integration, and distributed intelligence to simplify operations and support evolving use cases.

Ensuring the resilience and reliability of electric distribution networks is a top priority for utilities, especially as they navigate new sources of electrification, rising consumer demands, and escalating natural disasters. In this session, we’ll delve into the latest trends in distribution automation technology, shedding light on optimizing connectivity through hybrid mesh and cellular networks, and using solutions like IoT-connected line sensors to quickly identify and restore outages. Hear real-world experiences, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to enhancing the resiliency and reliability of distribution networks to improve CAIDI and SAIFI numbers, enhance safety, and push more intelligence, real-time decision making and analysis to the edge of the grid.

Many utilities have moved through the initial deployment phase of their AMI networks and are now reaping the benefits of mature, functioning Field Area Networks (FAN). Join this panel for tactical tips and tricks that Itron network customers with mature deployments have learned along the way. Utility presenters will share insights and anecdotes on refining maintenance practices, optimizing network performance, adjusting to changing topography due to factors like seasonal changes and new construction, optimizing GIS, OMS, and AMI data analysis, and balancing IT needs across the organization. Gain actionable strategies and best practices to unlock the full potential of your industrial IoT (IIoT) network, enhancing operational efficiency, improving maintenance practices, and driving business success across your organization.