The Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PDNC) has gained Vodafone as a new Tier 1 member. Vodafone represents the second major Tier 1 member to join the facility in as many months following the recent signing of UK Power Networks.
As part of their membership, Vodafone will participate in the PNDC’s Core Research Program and benefit from the collaboration of academia and industry partners as they shape future networks innovation projects to be undertaken at the facility. Vodafone represents the first stakeholder to join the Tier 1 membership from outside of the energy networks industry, alongside the three District Network Operators SSE, Scottish Power and UK Power Networks. It is the PNDC’s intention to grow this group to represent all stakeholders across the smart grid and future cities landscape.
Networks of today and the future are emerging with more sensors and measurement. This information needs to be effectively communicated. This need coupled with new communications solutions for existing power network operators using radio, wifi, satellite and existing methodologies present the background of how the PNDC can accelerate the communications solutions deployment to bring about intelligent networks of the future. We are delighted that Vodafone have joined us on this journey” said David Rutherford, CEO of the Power Networks Demonstration Centre.
Vodafone is one of the world’s largest telecommunications companies and provides a range of services including voice, messaging, data and fixed communications. Vodafone has mobile operations in 26 countries, partners with mobile networks in 55 more, and fixed broadband operations in 17 markets. As of 30 June 2015, Vodafone had 449 million mobile customers and 12 million fixed broadband customers.
Wayne Flanagan, Head of Utilities at Vodafone Machine to Machine commented on the membership; “The utility sector is of strategic importance to Vodafone, we provide mission critical communication services both in the UK and around the globe. We are delighted to become a Tier 1 member of the PNDC which will give us access to a world-class facility. Working alongside PNDC members and the academic resources of the University of Strathclyde will further support the development of services relevant for the changing needs of our utility customers.