1. SA Power Networks is the first utility in Australia to use low earth orbit satellite technology for field worker connectivity, specifically the SpaceX Starlink system.
2. The new system provides consistent high-speed internet for field crews working in regional and remote areas, improving accessibility and safety for power restoration and maintenance tasks.
3. By fitting over 150 vehicles with Starlink technology by 2024, crews will have constant connectivity, enabling them to access information and business systems from anywhere in the state, leading to faster restoration times and reduced costs.
SA Power Networks in South Australia has become the first utility in the country to use low earth orbit satellite technology from SpaceX Starlink to provide internet connectivity for field workers in remote areas. This technology is essential for tasks such as power restoration and network maintenance, allowing crews to coordinate switching and other key functions.
The utility has already seen significant benefits in accessibility, performance, and safety with this new system. Crews working in regional areas now have consistent high-speed internet, enabling faster and safer completion of tasks, as well as improved communication with the business and customers about progress.
The Starlink system was piloted with 11 vehicles last year and plans are to fit more than 150 vehicles with this technology by the end of 2024. This will allow crews to have connectivity anywhere in the state, making calls, accessing information, and connecting to the company’s IT network easily.
With Starlink’s low earth orbit satellites providing high-speed internet with low latency, field workers can now access faster internet than ever before. This improved connectivity is expected to bring significant performance enhancements for both field workers and customers, leading to faster restoration times in the event of outages and reducing unnecessary trips for connectivity.