How Verizon and GE Vernova Power Smart Grid Modernisation

Verizon Business and GE Vernova have announced a significant collaboration to deliver enhanced grid modernisation solutions for the utilities sector. The partnership introduces the GE Vernova MDS Orbit, an industrial wireless platform now powered by Verizon’s cellular network, designed to help utility companies securely monitor, control and automate their electrical grids and other critical infrastructure.

The joint offering combines GE Vernova’s industrial communications with Verizon’s reliable and secure wireless networking.

The solution is now available for utilities seeking to accelerate their digital transformation and build more resilient, efficient and sustainable energy systems for the future.

Addressing the critical need for modern grid communications

The global energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the integration of renewable energy sources, the rise of distributed power generation and increasing consumer demand for reliable electricity.

To manage complexity, utility companies must evolve from legacy communication systems to intelligent, secure and flexible networks that provide real-time visibility and control over their assets.

Modernising the electrical grid requires a robust communications backbone capable of supporting a vast array of sensors, controls and automated systems.

Mitesh adds: “The MDS Orbit platform, powered by Verizon’s cellular network, enables our customers to modernise their grid operations with confidence – delivering the performance required for SCADA, automation and other critical applications.

"Together with Verizon, we are helping utilities build the grid of the future with the connectivity and flexibility they need.”

A strategic alliance for industrial connectivity

The partnership leverages the distinct strengths of both companies to create a comprehensive, end-to-end solution.

The GE Vernova MDS Orbit platform serves as a rugged and resilient industrial communications hub designed for the demanding environment of utility operations.

It provides the necessary hardware and software to manage critical applications, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, substation automation, and secure connectivity for the mobile workforce.

By integrating Verizon’s network, the platform gains a secure and highly reliable connectivity layer.

The use of a public cellular network provides widespread coverage and the flexibility for utilities to deploy and scale their smart grid applications without the cost and complexity of building and maintaining a private communications network.

Co-innovation for resilience 

The collaboration builds upon a long-standing strategic partnership between Verizon and GE Vernova, reflecting a shared commitment to co-innovation for critical industries.

The joint solution is designed not merely as a product bundle but as an integrated offering that addresses the specific operational challenges faced by modern utilities.

“The energy grid is undergoing a massive transformation and utilities require reliable and flexible communications to manage this evolution,” said James Kilmer, VP, Global Enterprise Americas, Verizon Business. ​​​​​​​“Our collaboration with GE Vernova is about co-innovating to meet this critical need.

"By integrating our network with the MDS Orbit platform, we are providing a powerful solution to help utilities accelerate their grid modernisation efforts and deliver more resilient and efficient energy services to their customers,” he adds.

The synergy between Verizon’s wireless technology leadership and GE Vernova’s industrial domain expertise provides utilities with a trusted, single-source solution to confidently upgrade their infrastructure.

The offering enables real-time management of grid operations, enhancing efficiency, reducing downtime and improving the safety and security of the energy supply.

The partnership serves as a template for how telecommunications providers can act as foundational enablers for the digital transformation of critical national infrastructure.