Wireless Networks

Private network aims to transform smart energy in Brazil

Private network aims to transform smart energy in Brazil

A private network deal involving Brazilian operator TIM, described as marking a new level in the digitisation and modernisation of energy distribution in Brazil, has just been announced.

TIM and one of the country’s largest power companies, CPFL Energia, have announced a strategic partnership to implement what is being described as the largest private communication network in the Brazilian electricity sector.

With an investment of R$60 million (about US$11.8 million) the initiative will initially connect 65 substations and around 2,500 intelligent grid devices across about 50 municipalities, covering an area of about 51,000 square kilometres and serving approximately 980,000 customers.

TIM will deploy and integrate the telecommunications infrastructure, which will use the 450MHz band. The system will allow CPFL’s control centres in São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul to monitor equipment and execute remote commands in real time.

The companies say the technology should help CPFL identify faults, isolate affected sections of the grid and restore power more quickly after storms, accidents and other disruptions, reducing the need for field teams to carry out every initial intervention.

The network will also support the deployment of a variety of forms of smart grid equipment, while creating infrastructure for the broader adoption of smart meters in the future.

Work on the network is expected to be completed by 2029. Reports suggest that the network will have capacity to connect as many as 50,000 devices simultaneously, allowing CPFL to expand automation to meet the changing demands of more complex electricity grids including distributed generation, electric vehicles and energy storage.

For TIM, the agreement strengthens its position in corporate internet of things (IoT) services and critical communications infrastructure, offering growth beyond traditional mobile connectivity.



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