UTC Survey Shows that 60% of Utilities Currently Use Satellite Communications
April 4, 2012
iDirect, and the Utilities Telecom Council (UTC) today released the results of a new study on satellite communications in the utility industry. The study, Strategic Assessment of Satellite Usage in the Utility Industry, was conducted to gain a better understanding of how satellite communications is currently used in the utility industry and to better articulate the benefits of modern VSAT systems. iDirect is a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology.
Among the key findings were that 60% of utilities surveyed are already using some form of satellite communications technology. Of those not currently using satellite, 22% are planning to integrate the technology in the next two years. The study also revealed some misconceptions about satellite communications based on outdated technology, as well as a growing desire among utilities to learn more about advances in satellite technology.
The study, which was sponsored by iDirect, measured perceptions and usage trends relating to satellite communications through a focus group of top industry telecommunications technologists and through a survey of UTC's utility members, which comprised 100 completed responses from top communications decision-making technologists at 71 utilities.
Key Findings
The top benefit of satellite technology was cited as ubiquitous coverage. This was also the top benefit for commercial wireless services, but for security and management reasons, many utilities prefer the private networking capabilities of satellite over using a public wireless network.
Satellite is most frequently used for back-up voice communications with SCADA and substation automation a close second.
Misconceptions around high latency and high cost are two barriers to implementation for satellite communications, but these perceptions are likely based on experiences with legacy satellite technology. The study showed that the vast majority (78%) of utilities are interested in learning more about modern VSAT systems.
"Utilities are coping with ever-increasing demands on their communications infrastructures, particularly as they work to modernize and implement the new smart grid. UTC is proud to work with iDirect on this important study, which offers a wealth of useful information for utility operators on the benefits of satellite as a communications solution and the essential role that satellite will play in the future of the utility industry." said, Connie DURCSAKPresident and CEO, UTC
"With the majority of utilities already invested in some form of satellite technology, and a significant percentage planning to add satellite in the next two years, this study reveals a huge opportunity for VSAT solutions to help shape the future of the utility industry. The findings also reveal that satellite providers need to take the lead in educating utilities about the benefits of modern satellite technology and how they support back-up communications, SCADA, substation automation and other critical applications," said Toni Lee RUDNICKI Chief Marketing Officer, iDirect