A sponsored Utility Dive article by Tim Valin of West Monroe argues that the hardest part of private LTE for utilities is not the technology but the business case. Rather than asking only what a network will cost, utilities should ask what operating model, level of control, and cost trajectory they are choosing for the next decade. The analysis says the value can include avoiding future connectivity costs, improving reliability, and enabling automation and field technologies.
Spectrum strategy is central. Licensed spectrum gives a utility control over access within its territory, but it is a finite asset and may not remain available indefinitely. The article warns that organizations that wait could lose the opportunity as sellers pursue other buyers. Meanwhile, satellite connectivity is changing the equation: it can solve coverage problems without a large capital investment, but relying on an external provider means giving up some control over service levels, cybersecurity, and long-term access.
The broader point is that private LTE is not purely a network architecture decision. It touches business operations, cybersecurity, resilience, workforce, and finance. Utilities also need to think about governance, funding, and integration, especially when customer affordability is under scrutiny. The article concludes that the strongest strategies will evaluate all connectivity options and decide where ownership and control create real enterprise value.