ESB Networks has completed a process to award a contract for the development of a private mobile network.
Sigma Wireless Communications will work with Nokia to supply and install the new LTE Core Network and Radio Access Network over a three-year period.
The first sites will be live from the fourth quarter of this year.
In 2019, ComReg awarded a 15-year licence for radio spectrum to ESB Networks which has recently set out plans to develop an electricity network supported by a dedicated smart-grid telecommunication system.
Nicholas Tarrant, ESB Networks Managing Director, said that a smarter and agile electricity network will be key to delivering a more sustainable future.
"The purpose-built private telecommunications network now being developed will be a key enabler in delivering integration of renewable energy to the grid, decarbonisation of the electricity network and the electrification of heat and transport amongst other benefits," Mr Tarrant said.
"As such, this private, reliable and secure mobile network will be an indispensable precursor to delivering a Net Zero-ready electricity network," he added.
