NRECA has filed comments in response to a Department of Energy (DOE) “request for information” on utility communications needs. The DOE issued the inquiry in response to the Federal Communication Commission’s National Broadband Plan recommendations sent to Congress in March.
In its comments, NRECA noted that while electric co-ops have communications similar to other utilities, huge service territories and low consumer density create special challenges. There are often big gaps in cellular phone coverage and cooperatives often have to serve difficult and remote terrain.
Electric co-ops are willing to explore communications providers’ service options, but utilities must be allowed to determine which communications technologies they deploy, how and when. All utilities will need more robust communications to support Smart Grid applications and advocated for more radio spectrum for utilities.
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