Nokia has won a contract to deploy a private 5G wireless network for utility provider Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW).

The contract will see the Finnish vendor deploy a private 5G wireless network for the three-service municipal utility provider.

Nokia will support MLGW's multi-year grid modernization strategy across Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee, as it plans to enhance power distribution to its customers, which it notes will reduce the risk and customer impact of unplanned outages.

The network will provide the foundation for connected mobility, voice, and video services, said Nokia.

MLGW is set to become the first municipal utility in the US to implement a full-scale, standalone 5G private wireless network, expected to serve more than 420,000 customers.

The contract aims to enhance communications across all of MLGW’s electric, gas, and water services.

Nokia claims that its private 5G network will help improve data connectivity, resilience, and operational efficiency. According to Nokia, the network will also be designed for critical applications and future mobility needs.

"The 5G network deployment is a foundational aspect of MLGW’s Grid Modernization Initiative. We will be able to meet the requirements for a modern electric grid," said Doug McGowen, president and CEO, MLGW.

"We will have fast and reliable communication for grid devices; increased reliability during storms or cyber events that will help us restore power even faster after outages. This enables more automation and smart control operations and supports future technology like electric vehicles and battery storage."

The private network will support real-time communication and automation across MLGW's operations, and will support critical applications such as automated meter reading, grid monitoring, fault detection, and remote operations.

On top of this, Nokia said its technology will enable secure interoperability with both existing infrastructure and modern IoT devices, including grid sensors, smart meters, automation systems, and field equipment.

Nokia will provide its AirScale radio access equipment and its 5G Core Enterprise service.

The contract also includes a microwave backhaul solution and towers supported by Nokia managed services, plus Nokia’s NetGuard cybersecurity products for proactive threat detection and response, and privileged access management.

To date, Nokia has deployed private wireless networks for 890 customers globally, with 24 percent of those customers in North America.

Last month, the company struck a partnership with Andorix to ramp up the adoption of Private 5G networks and neutral host networks in North America.