Resilience by Design: Transforming Utility Infrastructure Through Connectivity

The utility sector is at a turning point. On one hand, new connected technologies like sensors and smart meters are ushering a new world of data-driven innovation, helping utilities track usage and detect issues in real-time and leading to unprecedented efficiency and transparency for consumers.

On the other hand, the interconnectedness of the systems and networks we depend on every day have the potential for widespread disruption, as we saw with the large-scale power outages in Spain and Portugal this year. Although utilities are modernizing our world, smart meters and connected devices are only as strong as the networks that support them. The need for greater planning and resiliency in utility connectivity has never been more important. To ensure our infrastructure is strong and resilient, we must recognize the challenges and identify the steps needed to build a resilient network.

Challenges in Utility Connectivity Today

The utility sector continues to rely heavily on legacy connectivity technologies, creating significant barriers to modernization and the adoption of innovations like IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart grids. While these older systems are familiar, they hinder the sector's ability to adapt to evolving demands and delay the digital transformation needed to mitigate emerging risks – an area where there is zero margin for error.

Compatibility is another critical concern. Connectivity devices vary widely in design, lifecycle, and credentials, and not all are compatible with available carriers or regional markets. Finding the right match can be a complex and time-consuming process.

This combination of outdated technology and incompatible devices presents major challenges for real-time monitoring and customer support. Carriers and mobile network operators must integrate technologies that not only collect data efficiently but also transmit that data quickly and accurately to meet the demands of the utility sector. However, implementation can be costly, and weak networks can delay data transmission.

So how can the utility sector achieve resilient connectivity? It starts with choosing the right partners, building a diverse carrier network, and improving connectivity management. 

A Diverse Carrier Network

In the past, devices were limited to single-carrier SIM technology, forcing users and enterprises to commit to the same provider throughout the device’s lifecycle to maintain network access.

Today, leveraging multiple carriers significantly enhances connectivity resilience. It improves reliability by reducing the risk of service disruptions and ensures consistent network access - even when one provider experiences outages or lacks coverage in a specific location. This added layer of connectivity is essential for maintaining continuity in critical infrastructure.

Carrier diversification also enables smarter route selection and greater flexibility between public and private networks. This not only helps optimize connectivity costs also can lead to more efficient overall network performance.

Better Connectivity Management

Another major obstacle to resilient connectivity lies in the design of management systems. Legacy technologies are often difficult to replace, while modern alternatives introduce new complexities. Users must consider key questions: Can device connectivity be updated or replaced easily? What is the expected lifecycle? What are the long-term costs?

Achieving true resilience requires a holistic view of connectivity management - from go-to-market strategies through deployment and long-term lifecycle support. Seamless coordination is essential to ensure devices can integrate quickly and switch securely between public and private networks.

Advancements like eSIM technology, particularly under the GSMA SGP.32 specification, simplify connectivity management. These standards, designed specifically for IoT deployments such as smart meters, enable automatic switching between cellular networks, ensuring uninterrupted data transmission across sensors and devices.

eSIM eliminates the need for manual SIM card handling boosting operational efficiency. For the utility sector, this translates into improved uptime through reliable backup services in case of outages, faster issue resolution via enhanced data access, and easier maintenance.

Ultimately, modern utilities can only deliver their full potential when supported by flexible and resilient connectivity. With the right strategy, utilities can stay ahead of disruptions and unlock the infrastructure of the future.