Modernizing Utility Networks for a Smarter Future

As global electricity consumption is projected to rise by nearly 4% annually until 2027, the utility industry worldwide is experiencing substantial transformation. This shift is largely driven by the exponential growth of data centers and the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) workloads and cloud services, which pose increasing challenges to existing infrastructure. Utilities are now faced with the dual necessity of managing escalating power demands while enhancing the resilience of their networks against unpredictable weather events and cyber threats. Interestingly, AI technology offers promising solutions, enabling smarter grids that can preemptively identify and address issues before they escalate. The evolution toward intelligent utilities necessitates the development of more sophisticated electric grids. As operations become more decentralized and real-time data becomes critical, communication networks must transition from traditional systems to more robust, secure, and adaptable technologies. Modern utilities are increasingly adopting wireless networks to extend connectivity, especially to remote sites, reducing costs and deployment times compared to convention...