Vodafone Powers Europe’s First 5G Network at Temelín Nuclear Plant, Paving the Way for Secure Infrastructure Digitalization

Vodafone Powers Europe’s First 5G Network at Temelín Nuclear Plant, Paving the Way for Secure Infrastructure Digitalization

(IN BRIEF) Vodafone has deployed the first 5G mobile private network (MPN) at Temelín Nuclear Power Plant in Czechia, marking a significant milestone in Europe. This new 5G connectivity will enhance communication within the plant, replacing traditional walkie-talkies and enabling the use of advanced technologies like augmented reality glasses for technicians. The private 5G network is designed to ensure the highest standards of safety and security by keeping all user data within the plant’s systems. The results of this pilot project will guide future deployments of 5G MPNs at other sites.

(PRESS RELEASE) BERKSHIRE, 31-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — ČEZ Group’s Temelín Nuclear Power Plant in Czechia has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first nuclear facility in Europe to implement a 5G mobile private network (MPN), in collaboration with Vodafone. This state-of-the-art 5G network, which covers both outdoor and select indoor areas of the plant, represents a major advancement in communication technology, moving the plant from traditional walkie-talkies to more sophisticated digital solutions. The new system will also enable the use of augmented reality (AR) glasses by technicians, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Vodafone’s 5G MPN operates independently of the public network, ensuring that all data is securely managed within the plant’s own systems. This independence is crucial for maintaining the highest safety and reliability standards in such a critical infrastructure. Violeta Luca, CEO of Vodafone Czechia, emphasized the importance of this technology in advancing the secure digitalization of essential infrastructure.

Bohdan Zronek, board member and Nuclear Division Director at ČEZ, underscored the importance of keeping the power plant’s communication network separate from external systems to ensure security and operational continuity. “As the first European nuclear power plant to test a private 5G network, we are pioneering the use of this advanced technology while ensuring robust backup systems for emergencies,” Zronek noted.

This pilot project at Temelín is part of a broader initiative in Europe, where Vodafone has already deployed MPNs in various sectors, including automotive manufacturing with Škoda Auto in Czechia, chemical production with BASF in Germany, energy with SNAM in Italy, and even for Ireland’s national rugby team. The results of this pilot will inform future 5G MPN implementations at additional sites.

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SOURCE: Vodafone Group