Kyushu Electric Power Revolutionizing Power Plant Operations with Local 5G and Wi-Fi

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In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and evolving energy demands, Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. has taken a bold step towards digital transformation. By leveraging a cutting-edge, self-operated wireless network powered by local 5G and Wi-Fi, the company is enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and scalability at its Matsuura Power Plant, one of Japan’s largest thermal power facilities. This initiative marks a significant stride in achieving “smart safety” while addressing labour shortages, aging infrastructure, and the pressing need for carbon neutrality.

The Matsuura Power Plant, with a maximum output of 1.7 million kW, spans a vast site housing numerous critical structures like turbines, boilers, and flue gas desulfurization units. Managing such a complex facility requires real-time monitoring, efficient communication, and robust safety protocols. However, traditional wireless infrastructure had significant gaps, with LTE coverage limited to select buildings and outdoor areas left unconnected. This presented challenges in ensuring seamless communication across the plant.

Moreover, the evolving energy landscape and the growing adoption of digital technologies necessitated an infrastructure capable of supporting advanced use cases such as predictive maintenance, AI-powered surveillance, and autonomous equipment management.

To overcome these challenges, Nippon Steel Solutions Corporation (NSSOL) collaborated with Kyushu Electric Power to design and deploy a private wireless network tailored to the plant’s unique needs. Key features of this innovative network include:

  1. Hybrid Architecture: Local 5G was deployed outdoors to cover the expansive site, while Wi-Fi 6 provided robust indoor connectivity. A backhaul network using local 5G seamlessly connected the Wi-Fi systems.
  2. Cost Efficiency: By replacing traditional optical cables with local 5G for inter-building communication, significant cost savings were achieved.
  3. Scalability and Reliability: The local 5G core system, hosted in a centralized data center, allows for easy scalability to other facilities. The use of globally trusted products ensures high performance and reliability.
  4. Comprehensive Coverage: Dozens of fixed local 5G terminals were installed to eliminate coverage gaps across the plant, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
  5. Enhanced Security: Advanced endpoint security solutions were integrated to protect against potential cyber threats and SIM spoofing attacks.

One unique challenge was the lack of local 5G support in company-issued iPhones. To address this, Wi-Fi routers connecting to local 5G were deployed as an interim solution, with ongoing efforts to enable direct local 5G support for smartphones.

This hybrid network has paved the way for transformative changes in power plant operations, including:

  • Enhanced Safety: AI-powered tools can now perform real-time monitoring and anomaly detection, reducing risks for on-site workers.
  • Improved Efficiency: Digital tools facilitate predictive maintenance and automated equipment control, minimizing downtime and operational disruptions.
  • Future-Proof Infrastructure: The scalable architecture supports expansion to other facilities, including nuclear power plants, ensuring long-term viability.

Kyushu Electric Power’s adoption of a private wireless network exemplifies how utilities can embrace digital transformation to tackle industry challenges. By combining local 5G and Wi-Fi, the company has established a robust, secure, and scalable communications backbone that supports smarter, safer, and more efficient power plant operations.

This initiative not only positions Kyushu Electric Power as a pioneer in smart energy solutions but also sets a compelling example for industries worldwide striving to modernize their operations.

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