Netmore Group is set to enhance its LoRaWAN network across the United Kingdom through an expanded collaboration with Cellnex UK. This partnership utilizes Cellnex’s streetworks monopole infrastructure to provide comprehensive Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) coverage. By integrating their resources, the companies aim to support large-scale smart metering projects, contributing to the advancement of regional utility services under the AMP8 regulatory framework.
Previously, Netmore and Cellnex UK installed LoRaWAN gateways on 20 streetworks sites. The new agreement extends this installation to an additional 200 sites, significantly expanding the network’s reach. This growth aligns with Netmore’s Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) rollout, which is crucial for regional water utilities aiming to modernize their metering systems.
How Will the Expanded Network Support Smart Metering?
The expansion of LoRaWAN gateways will enable Netmore to deploy its Automated Metering Infrastructure more effectively. By increasing the number of gateway installations, Netmore can ensure reliable connectivity for the 1.3 million water meters selected by Yorkshire Water. This initiative is one of Europe’s largest LoRaWAN water metering projects, aiming to enhance data accuracy and operational efficiency for water utilities.
What Role Does Cellnex UK’s Infrastructure Play?
Cellnex UK’s sustainable asset-sharing model is pivotal to the partnership. The co-location of Netmore’s equipment on Cellnex’s existing infrastructure reduces deployment costs and accelerates network expansion.
“Cellnex UK’s innovative method of repurposing street fixtures for network deployment and densification brings substantial value to Netmore as we continually seek ways to lower network delivery costs while maintaining top-tier connectivity services for our customers. The cost efficiencies provided by Cellnex UK directly enhance the speed and scale at which we can integrate devices, such as smart water meters, into our network. We are excited to extend our partnership in this region and beyond,”
stated Dominic Murphy, Director of International Network Delivery.
What Are the Benefits for Regional Water Utilities?
The collaboration provides regional water utilities with a robust and scalable metering solution.
“By leveraging our approach to sustainable asset-sharing, we are not only facilitating the rollout of Netmore’s cutting-edge technology, but we are also able to ensure efficient and targeted wireless coverage and capacity for its customers. Cellnex UK’s extensive infrastructure portfolio means we can provide connectivity exactly where it’s needed, whilst also providing a cost-effective solution that allows Netmore to connect to a high volume of water meters,”
explained Paul Stonadge, Commercial Director at Cellnex UK. This ensures that utilities can manage resources more effectively and respond promptly to operational needs.
The ongoing partnership between Netmore and Cellnex UK exemplifies the strategic use of existing infrastructure to support the deployment of advanced IoT solutions. By leveraging Cellnex’s extensive network, Netmore can expand its services more efficiently, providing substantial benefits to utility providers and their customers. This model of collaboration may serve as a blueprint for future public-private partnerships in the smart city and utility management sectors.
