5 Key Takeaways from UBBA Summit and Plugfest 2025
In this blog
Leaders from across the utility industry gathered in Charlotte, NC, earlier this month for Utility Broadband Alliance Summit and Plugfest 2025. The sold-out event focused on the future of utility networks, from the evolution of network operations to the adoption of next-generation technology.
Here are our top takeaways.
Takeaway 1: NOC modernization is non-negotiable
With utilities now managing an explosion of IoT devices, siloed management tools and growing operational complexity, a modern network operations center (NOC) is essential. Yet many utilities remain at a basic level of NOC maturity.
Experts emphasized that utilities must move beyond swivel-chair operations and tribal knowledge, adopting standardized processes and leveraging automated and intelligent platforms for proactive monitoring across critical services.
They also noted that NOC modernization involves organizational as well as technological change. A traditional organizational model of dispatchers fielding calls and manually correlating information simply can't keep pace with network demands.
Takeaway 2: Independent SIMs bring welcome flexibility
Conversation around subscriber identity module (SIM) management and data ownership at the event marked an industry shift. Utilities are increasingly wary of relying on public carriers due to concerns over data privacy, control and long-term costs. As a result, independent SIMs are growing in popularity.
By bringing SIM connectivity in-house, utilities can tailor network solutions to their requirements, avoid vendor lock-in and respond to changing business needs. This flexibility is key as utilities brace for an explosion of data across the network, driven by a proliferation of distributed automation devices being deployed on power lines for greater visibility into segmentation, isolation and restoration services.
Takeaway 3: AMI 2.0 forces networks to adapt
As utilities move toward AMI 2.0, the event underscored that networks must evolve to support low-latency, high-capacity communications for multiple head-end systems and peer-to-peer edge operations.
Utilities will need to rethink traditional architectures, moving beyond simple meter-to-head-end models to dynamic, distributed designs. Those that do will see new opportunities for more efficient grid management and advanced analytics.
Takeaway 4: Satellites enter the game
The event made clear that low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are now seen as a legitimate option for extending the network's reach and supporting remote operations. This is due to the advent of 3GPP standards.
The adoption of standardized technologies means utilities can integrate satellite solutions seamlessly with existing cellular networks, reducing costs and complexity. This shift opens new possibilities for connectivity in rural and hard-to-reach areas, disaster recovery efforts and future smart grid applications.
Takeaway 5: Wireless core shows promise
Presenters discussed how utilities are rapidly embracing wireless cellular core solutions. By leveraging flexible, cost-effective platforms from vendors like Nokia and Ericsson, these solutions overcome the limitations of legacy distributed antenna systems (DAS) and wired infrastructure.
Innovative models like core-as-a-service, already adopted by smaller utilities, further simplify deployment and management. Expect wireless core adoption to grow as utilities seek more flexible, scalable architectures.
Looking ahead
This year's Summit and Plugfest revealed an industry at a crossroads. Infrastructure decisions made today stand to have a significant impact on network performance for years to come. The convergence of NOC modernization, independent SIM adoption, AMI 2.0 and new connectivity models signal fundamental changes in how utility networks are built and managed.
As utilities add exponentially more monitoring and control devices and connectivity solutions to their remote field environments, automated, intelligent solutions will be key to ensuring grid services remain reliable and resilient, no matter what the future holds.