E.ON increases German grid security with 450MHz radio network

E.ON has announced using the 450MHz radio network to connect and control local grid stations and smart meters in homes when conventional communication systems are down.

The Germany-based electric utility company is aiming to ensure that essential components of critical infrastructure remain connected, even during catastrophic events.

The announcement sees E.ON as the first company to sign a framework agreement on the nationwide use of radio services with 450connect, the operator of the 450MHz radio network. The agreement covers the procurement of radio services with a total contract value of around €500 million ($527.7 million) until 2040.

Under the terms of the agreement, E.ON’s network companies will be able to use the radio services for crisis communication as well as day-to-day operations starting in 2023. This will make key parts of the critical infrastructure independent of public fixed or mobile networks, which may not be available after a power failure or in other crisis situations.

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E.ON aims to read more than one million smart meters using 450MHz technology by 2040. In addition, the company plans to connect some 28,000 digital local network stations via the 450MHz frequency band by the end of 2026.

According to E.ON, as a flexible communication channel, the 450MHz band can also be used during regular grid operation and will make an important contribution to the digitalisation of the German energy landscape.

Frederik Giessing, managing director of 450connect, said: “We are delighted to have signed this framework agreement with E.ON as the largest distribution grid operator in Germany. Ensuring a highly available and secure 450MHz radio network for operators of critical infrastructures is a joint task.

“Since 2016, 450connect has been laying the groundwork for this in cooperation with regional energy suppliers. The new framework agreement with E.ON as a customer marks an important milestone in the nationwide expansion and provision of fail-safe radio services, which will be completed by 2025.”

Thomas König, E.ON management board member responsible for energy networks, emphasised the importance of the critical network infrastructure: “As the largest distribution system operator, we have a special responsibility for security of supply in Germany. With the envisaged use of 450MHz frequency band throughout Germany, we are creating the conditions for even more resilient crisis communication and the continued digitalisation of the electricity grids.

“And this is where regulation has an important part to play, because in order to promote the consistent use of 450MHz technology throughout the energy sector, distribution network operators have to have their costs recognised without much delay by the regulator.”