Heddian, Inc., a company that designs, deploys and operates private wireless networks for utilities and other critical infrastructure operators, announced a partnership with Avista Corp., an energy company serving customers across eastern Washington, northern Idaho and parts of Oregon.

Avista has engaged Heddian to deploy a hybrid private wireless network as part of the utility’s broader field network modernization efforts. The approach combines the reach of existing public cellular networks with the control, security, and reliability of private wireless infrastructure, giving Avista a flexible foundation that can expand as its communications needs evolve.

The initial deployment will include Heddian’s UtiliSIM connectivity, supported by SGP.32-based SIM technology from Giesecke+Devrient (G+D), providing a secure and scalable connectivity foundation for devices across the hybrid network. UtiliSIM’s home-routing capability enables data generated by field devices to route back through a dedicated private core, regardless of whether a device is connected to a public or private network. This gives Avista greater control over how its connectivity is managed across the network — an important capability for utilities operating critical infrastructure.

Heddian’s integrated solution also incorporates a utility-grade private core from Druid Software, along with network security and device management capabilities from  OneLayer, providing Avista with greater visibility, security and control across its connected devices.

The hybrid architecture allows Avista to continue leveraging public carrier networks in areas where they effectively meet operational needs with the ability to add private wireless infrastructure in locations where greater coverage, control and resiliency are required. This targeted approach can help utilities focus on private network investment where it delivers the greatest operational value rather than building infrastructure where reliable connectivity already exists.

As utilities modernize substations, distribution automation equipment, smart meters and other grid infrastructure, communications networks are becoming increasingly critical to reliable grid operations. Heddian provides utilities with a single experienced partner that can design and deploy private wireless infrastructure, integrate the technologies required to support it and operate the network over the long term — rather than requiring utilities to assemble and manage those capabilities independently.

The architecture is designed to grow alongside Avista’s needs, including the ability to add private cell sites in targeted locations, onboard additional devices, and extend coverage as field communications requirements evolve.

Avista Corp. is an energy company involved in the production, transmission and distribution of energy as well as other energy-related businesses. Avista Utilities is the operating division that provides electric service to 429,000 customers and natural gas to 386,000 customers. Its service territory covers 34,000 square miles in eastern Washington, northern Idaho and parts of southern and eastern Oregon, with a population of 1.5 million. Alaska Energy and Resources Company is an Avista subsidiary that provides retail electric service to 18,000 customers in the city and borough of Juneau, Alaska, through its subsidiary Alaska Electric Light and Power Company.