The benefits of a new private 5G network are being brought to a mountainous region in Slovenia. Using the region’s waterworks, 5G base stations, and drones will reduce municipal costs and enhance utility and emergency services.
The digital transformation of the region is being undertaken by Vahta Slovenia, and Squire Technologies. It is anticipated that the project will demonstrate the benefits of 5G public services. The EU plans to use this project as a model that can be replicated in other regions.
How is the private 5G network deployed?
IoT sensors, in 5G base stations and drones, will enable real-time water management and emergency services coordination. The water supply network is over 300km long, requiring strategic positioning of sensors, base stations and drones, to boost efficiency.
The project, titled 5G WAT-ERR-IB, uses:
- A hybrid private 5G Standalone network, supplied across 13 fixed and 3 mobile base stations.
- Edge computing to reduce latency and ensure real-time data processes and effective AI-based anomaly detection.
- LoRaWAN for low-power, long-range seamless IoT device connectivity.
- 5G-connected drones offer 5G base station mobility, and HD and thermal visuals for real-time situational awareness.
The project brings together specialism that are critical for the unique nature of the project.
- Vahta Slovenia, a specialist connectivity provider for rural areas, is coordinating the 5G SA network project’s design, deployment and operation.
- Squire Technologies is a specialist signalling solutions provider and supplies the advanced, carrier-grade SBC for the project. The I-SBC provides secure voice for on/off-net calls.
Why is a private 5G network needed?
Floods, wildfires and tricky terrain all complicate communications for the Ilirska Bistrica’s scattered population. As a result, utility services and search and rescue emergency responses are jeopardised.
In recent years, fires have hampered search and rescue services by cutting all communications, phone and radio. Additionally, as much as 40% of water costs come from the electricity supplied to pump it. Improving effectiveness and efficiency will improve connectivity and emergency service responses and reduce costs.
The Municipality of Ilirska Bistrica sought a cost-effective and reliable telecommunication solution to overcome these connectivity problems. They decided that a private 5G network and edge cloud technology could transform the region into a smart community.
This solution was unimaginable with the supply network’s previous legacy systems.
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