Memphis Utility Launches First US Standalone Private 5G Network

Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) is set to become the first municipal utility in the U.S. to deploy a full-scale standalone private 5G wireless network, in partnership with Nokia. This initiative is a key component of MLGW's grid modernization strategy, aiming to enhance real-time communication, automation, and operational efficiency across its electric, gas, and water services for over 420,000 customers in Memphis and Shelby County. The network will support critical applications such as automated meter reading, grid monitoring, fault detection, and remote field operations, improving power distribution reliability and outage restoration times. Nokia will provide AirScale radio access equipment, 5G Core Enterprise solutions, microwave backhaul, dedicated towers, and cybersecurity measures through its NetGuard system to ensure operational continuity and threat detection. The deployment will proceed in two phases, initially covering 93 percent of the county, with further expansion to boost coverage, resiliency, and support emerging technologies like electric vehicles and battery storage. Industry analysts view this deal as a landmark in private 5G adoption for utilities, reflecting a broader trend toward industrial digital transformation using 5G technology.