Vertical: Utilities
Application: Grid modernization, automated meter reading, fault detection, outage
Ecosystem: Nokia
Private Network: 5G, CBRS
Memphis Light, Gas and Water has made history by becoming the first municipal utility in the United States to implement a full-scale standalone private 5G wireless network. The largest three-service municipal utility in the country selected Nokia to deploy this comprehensive network as part of a multi-year grid modernization strategy serving more than 420,000 customers across Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee.
The private 5G network, operating on the 3.5 GHz CBRS band, represents a foundational element of MLGW’s broader grid modernization initiative, designed to enhance power distribution while reducing the risk and customer impact of unplanned outages. The network will enable faster service restoration to the public through improved communication and automation capabilities across the utility’s electric, gas, and water services.
“The 5G Network Deployment is a foundational aspect of MLGW’s Grid Modernization Initiative. We will be able to meet the requirements for a modern electric grid. We will have fast and reliable communication for grid devices; increased reliability during storms or cyber events that will help us restore power even faster after outages. This enables more automation and smart control operations and supports future technology like electric vehicles and battery storage,” said Doug McGowen, President and CEO of MLGW.
Nokia’s comprehensive solution includes its AirScale radio access equipment and 5G Core Enterprise Solution, providing the technical foundation for real-time communication and automation across MLGW’s operations. The deployment will support critical applications including automated meter reading, grid monitoring, fault detection, and remote operations while establishing the groundwork for future innovations such as connected mobility, voice, and video services.
The network’s architecture enables secure interoperability with both existing infrastructure and modern IoT devices, including grid sensors, smart meters, automation systems, and field equipment. This design ensures operational continuity while expanding the utility’s technological capabilities for future applications.
Beyond the core 5G infrastructure, the contract encompasses a microwave backhaul solution and towers supported by Nokia managed services. The deployment also includes Nokia’s NetGuard cybersecurity products, providing proactive threat detection and response capabilities along with privileged access management to protect the utility’s critical infrastructure.
“This collaboration marks a major milestone in advancing MLGW’s power grid modernization and their commitment to building a smarter, more resilient, and future-ready utility infrastructure for the community. It also underscores Nokia’s leadership in delivering end-to-end private wireless networks that empower utilities to accelerate their digital transformation and enhance service reliability for their customers,” stated Jeff Pittman, Head of North America Enterprise for Nokia’s Mobile Networks division.
This deployment reflects broader momentum in private 5G adoption across industrial sectors, with utilities increasingly recognizing the technology’s potential for grid modernization and operational efficiency. The standalone 5G technology can deliver considerably lower latency for grid operations compared to LTE, even with relatively limited bandwidth in the sub-1 GHz range commonly used in the utilities sector.
