Cellnex UK and Netmore Expand LoRaWAN Wireless Coverage

Wireless infrastructure firm Cellnex has today announced that they’re partnering with network operator Netmore to enhance the UK coverage of their low power Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) network across as many as 200 streetwork sites.

Fixed wireless LoRa networks typically harness only a small slice of lower frequency radio spectrum (usually in one of the sub-1GHz bands) in order to support relatively slow, but extremely low power, data connections. Such networks tend to run at well below sub-Megabit speeds (although some variants can handle several Megabits), which makes them ideal for linking low-power Internet of Things (IoT) style sensors over long distances.

The new collaboration will see the installation of LoRaWAN gateways on Cellnex UK’s existing streetwork sites. This will in turn to supports Netmore’s network expansion, after being chosen by Yorkshire Water to replace 1.3 million water meters in one of Europe’s largest LoRaWAN projects (here).

Paul Stonadge, Commercial Director at Cellnex UK, said:

“By leveraging our approach to sustainable asset-sharing, we are not only facilitating the rollout of Netmore’s cutting-edge technology, but we are also able to ensure efficient and targeted wireless coverage and capacity for its customers. Cellnex UK’s extensive infrastructure portfolio means we can provide connectivity exactly where it’s needed, whilst also providing a cost-effective solution that allows Netmore to connect to a high volume of water meters.”

Dominic Murphy, Director of International Network Delivery at Netmore, adds:

“Cellnex UK’s innovative method of repurposing street fixtures for network deployment and densification brings substantial value to Netmore as we continually seek ways to lower network delivery costs while maintaining top-tier connectivity services for our customers. The cost efficiencies provided by Cellnex UK directly enhance the speed and scale at which we can integrate devices, such as smart water meters, into our network. We are excited to extend our partnership in this region and beyond.”

So far 20 sites have already gone live with the new kit and an “additional” 200 are due to follow (suggesting a total of 220 sites upon completion).