The utility communication is the groundwork for two-way communication between the utility and the end-users through all the data points deployed across the network. It helps monitor and control grid equipment, measures electric network performance, and delivers information in real-time to control centers. There are vertical of technologies in utility communication, which are deployed in the oil & gas utilities, and in T&D networks including fiber optics, power line carrier (PLC), ethernet, WiMax, microwave & radio communication, and mesh.
There have been application areas where utility communication are extensively used by utilities, and smart grid development agencies. Stringent government regulations will drive the market for utility communication. Governments of various emerging economies have shifted their focus towards automating their communication network by integrating their existing infrastructure with new communication technologies. The utilities have been continuously trying to improve their billing practices including parameters, such as utility rates, current power consumption compared to the previous consumption, and meeting budgets for achieving efficiency in utility consumption. Major utility companies are focusing on upgrading their customer information systems (CIS). These factors are further propelling the growth of the global utility communication market during the forecast period.
For the purpose of the study the global utility communication market has been segmented by technology, utility type, and region. Based on technology the market has been segmented as wired technology, and wireless technology. Wired technology segment dominated the market in 2017 and is expected to remain dominant during the forecast period as they are relatively impervious to adverse weather conditions as compared to wireless communication. Based on utility type, the market has been segmented as public utility and private utility. Public utility segment dominated the market in 2017 and is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period as they receive funds, subsidies, and favorable policies from the government to provide all the necessary services and amenities, such as water, electricity, transportation, and sewage treatment to the public. Based on region, the market is segmented into Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America Middle East & Africa, and South America.