Energy
Avista adopts hybrid utility communications model
Avista has chosen Heddian to modernize its field communications using a hybrid model that combines commercial cellular networks with private infrastructure.
Key points
- Avista selected Heddian to upgrade field communications across its service territory.
- The hybrid architecture blends public cellular networks with private LTE infrastructure.
- A utility-controlled core and SIM card manage authentication and routing across networks.
What happened
Energy company Avista has partnered with Heddian to modernize its field communications network across its service territory in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and parts of Oregon, Renewable Energy World reported in October 2026.
The deployment utilizes a hybrid architecture that pairs commercial cellular coverage with private infrastructure. According to Heddian Chief Executive Officer Joe Walsh, the approach aims to give utilities security and control without requiring them to build out exclusive private networks across entire service regions from scratch.
Why it matters
Operating across approximately 34,000 square miles, Avista faced the challenge of balancing coverage, operational control, and capital expenditure. Fully private wireless deployments can involve high costs for towers and backhaul, while public-only options leave critical infrastructure reliant on external networks.
The hybrid model allows utilities to apply public carriers where coverage is sufficient while deploying private LTE assets for high-reliability grid-edge applications. Security and routing are managed through a utility-controlled core and specialized SIM cards, allowing companies to scale private infrastructure gradually over time.
What comes next
Integration with legacy infrastructure relies on tools such as OneLayer for immediate visibility on existing carrier contracts, alongside a migratory SIM framework designed to minimize physical truck rolls for network updates.
As regulatory bodies introduce stricter monitoring standards for grid resources and large loads, improved field communications are intended to help operators capture higher-resolution data and manage grid capacity more closely.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
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Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
