More importantly, these networks are already built, or in the case of the new 4G networks, are being rapidly built to accommodate both voice and data communications. Utilities have long used public mobile networks for a variety of applications, but the deployment of these networks has traditionally been limited in scope due to a relatively restrictive pricing structure and certain technological limitations.

Now, as utilities continue to deploy smart grid infrastructure, including smart meters, distribution automation, and substation automation, they are increasingly using public mobile networks to manage their machine-to-machine (M2M) communications infrastructure, often in conjunction with private networks that utilize a wide variety of technologies. Mobile network operators offer relatively modest capital costs for deploying networks, low operating costs, and the advantage of outsourced maintenance and network management activities.

The latest research report published by Pike Research offers an in-depth analysis of the current use of public wireless technologies for smart grids, along with regional and global forecasts for communication node orders and revenue, and a breakdown of revenue by application type. Specific forecast data is presented for wireless electronic assembly technology used in communication nodes, covering ASP trends based on region-specific utilization models, as well as revenue segmented by wireless network technology. The report also includes profiles of active operators, utilities, and vendors involved in using public mobile networks to enable smart grid communications.

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