Panel Session: PLTE Summit: From Business Case to Operations

Private LTE (PLTE) is rapidly becoming the backbone of modern utility communications, but successful adoption requires more than just deploying a network. Utilities must navigate the full lifecycle - from developing a compelling business case and securing spectrum, to network design, deployment, and long-term operations.

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the PLTE journey, highlighting strategic considerations, regulatory and spectrum decisions, technical design factors, and lessons learned from early deployments. Attendees will gain insights into:

~ Building a business case aligned with utility priorities and regulatory expectations
~ Evaluating and selecting spectrum options to support long-term scalability
~ RF design and technology choices (4G vs 5G, SIMs, virtualization, interoperability with LMR)
~ Practical approaches to deployment, testing, and ongoing operations
~ Real-world case studies from utilities implementing PLTE for grid modernization, resilience, and customer value

This session will offer attendees a roadmap for evaluating, justifying, and implementing PLTE to enable secure and future-ready utility operations.