LCRA and Ericsson to deploy private LTE network for utilities in Texas
Rhea-AI Summary
Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has signed a multi-year agreement with the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to implement a private LTE network across parts of 68 Texas counties. The network will support grid modernization efforts and enhance utility operations security.
The implementation includes Ericsson's 5G-ready dual-mode core solution, radio access network solutions, and network management systems. The network will enable critical applications such as mission-critical push-to-talk, SCADA, and support for various governmental entities' communication needs.
Initial operations are scheduled to begin in Q1 2025. The network will feature 24/7/365 monitoring from Ericsson's Network Operations teams, strengthening resilience against extreme weather and cyber threats. This infrastructure upgrade aims to provide more reliable and secure utility services to millions of Texans.
Positive
- Multi-year contract secured with LCRA for 68 Texas counties
- Implementation of 5G-ready infrastructure expanding Ericsson's utility sector presence
- Recurring revenue potential through 24/7/365 monitoring services
Negative
- None.
Insights
This strategic agreement marks a significant win for Ericsson in the critical infrastructure sector, particularly noteworthy for its scale across 68 Texas counties. The implementation of a 5G-ready private LTE network positions Ericsson to capture a growing market opportunity in utility modernization, estimated to reach several billion dollars annually in North America alone.
The deal's architecture is particularly compelling as it includes comprehensive solutions - from dual-mode 5G Core to RAN solutions and security management. This end-to-end approach helps Ericsson establish a strong competitive moat in the utilities sector, where reliability and security requirements create high barriers to entry. The 24/7/365 monitoring commitment further strengthens Ericsson's position as a trusted partner for critical infrastructure.
This contract could serve as a blueprint for similar deployments across other U.S. utilities, potentially catalyzing Ericsson's enterprise business growth. The timing is particularly strategic as utilities face increasing pressure to modernize their grids and enhance cybersecurity measures. This positions Ericsson to potentially secure additional contracts in the utility sector, especially given the growing emphasis on grid resilience and security in federal infrastructure initiatives.
"A private LTE network will provide LCRA with additional capacity, control and security capabilities that are essential to our role as a leading public utility in
The private LTE network will be a foundational element in LCRA's long-term strategy to maintain reliable and resilient wireless communications for its own operations and the communities it serves. The mission critical private LTE network provided by Ericsson includes the 5G-ready, geographically redundant Ericsson dual-mode 5G Core solution, radio access network (RAN) solutions, network management, and security management solutions. By implementing the private LTE network, LCRA will gain additional visibility and control over its utility operations with essential applications such as mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and supporting electric cooperatives, and municipal, school, transit and other governmental entities with their critical communication needs.
With 24/7/365 monitoring and support from Ericsson's dedicated Network Operations teams, the private LTE network will be strengthened against risks stemming from extreme weather and malicious actors; supporting LCRA's efforts to provide robust and resilient utility services.
"This agreement with LCRA demonstrates Ericsson's commitment to securing and modernizing America's critical infrastructure," said Eric Boudriau, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit Regional Customers & HCP, Ericsson North America. "By implementing a mission critical private LTE network, LCRA is taking proactive steps to enhance grid resilience, strengthen cybersecurity, and prepare for future technological advances that will benefit millions of Texans."
Initial operations, scheduled to begin in Q1 2025, will establish a future-focused, 5G-ready mission-critical network throughout LCRA's area.
With a long-standing presence in
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Ericsson: Empowering smart grids with mission-critical networks
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SOURCE Ericsson
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