How do utility LoRaWAN networks drive smart cities?

Hosted by Alix Paultre (Editor at Large at Endeavor Business Media), Dan Preece (Vice President of Water and Utilities Iot at Connexin) joined a panel of industry experts to discuss how utility LoRaWAN networks drive smart cities.

On this panel sat Gary Adams (Head of Smart Transformation & Metering at Northumbrian Water Group) and Dr Simon Bunjamin (LoRaWAN Project Manager at NEW Energie). Together, they explored how LoRaWAN is shaking up the utilities industry and setting the stage for smarter cities. The conversation wasn’t just about the tech—it was about real challenges, big opportunities, and what it’ll take to get LoRaWAN to the next level in the UK.

LoRaWAN: The Overlooked Infrastructure We Need to Champion

Dan kicked off the discussion by sharing some of the big lessons we’ve learned at Connexin as we’ve rolled out smart metering and infrastructure projects across the UK. He called for more government support, saying it’s time to recognise LPWAN and LoRaWAN as essential infrastructure - just as important as fibre broadband (FTTP) and 5G.

At industry events like Connected Britain, we often see the buzz around fibre and 5G, but LPWAN gets less attention. Dan’s message was clear: if the UK wants to truly embrace smart city development, we need to get IoT and LPWAN onto the agenda and give it the recognition it deserves.

Stay in the loop with Connexin’s efforts in the LPWAN revolution by contacting Jason Legget at [email protected].

From Data Collection to Real Action

Gary Adams talked about Northumbrian Water’s big plans to roll out over a million smart meters by 2030, using Connexin’s LoRaWAN network to get real-time data. The additional benefits come in the way of using the end point connected devices to report on further data points such as sewer flooding and river quality monitoring. But collecting data is just the first step - the real challenge is making it useful.

Gary shared a practical approach: start by gathering the data, then use it to fine-tune operations, and finally apply those insights to bring wider social and environmental benefits, like cutting down water waste and improving public health. With smart meters generating thousands of data points each year (compared to just two with traditional meters), there’s a lot to work with - but also a lot to sift through. He pointed out that AI will be key for sorting through all that data, separating the noise from value-adding points of interest, to flag the things we need to take action on.

Breaking Down Silos and Prioritising Data Security

Simon Benjamin added to this with some of the lessons NEW Energie have learned while implementing LoRAWAN. He highlighted a big hurdle many of us face - breaking down silos to connect data across different departments. By collecting a mass of data and by putting it together in context with other data sources, they were able to see how districts can behave and what makes them change patterns.

Digital transformation means more than just new technology; it often requires a cultural shift in how organisations work together. Simon stressed that sharing data securely is crucial for making real progress, but it also demands new ways of thinking. Similar conversations were also had at The Things Conference, including a panel discussion with Jason Legget from Connexin, where he discussed how citywide LoRaWAN networks drive citizens' value.

Tackling the UK’s Unique Utility Landscape

Some of the barriers are pretty unique to the UK, where water, gas, and energy utilities often operate separately, making it harder to implement smart city solutions. Dan and Gary both emphasised the need to break down these barriers to fully utilise what IoT has to offer. At Connexin, we’re already advocating for LPWAN to be seen as critical infrastructure in the UK for smarter cities and better public services, but there’s still plenty of work to be done.

Looking Ahead: Smarter Homes and a Single Platform for Citizens

The discussion then turned to what’s next for utility IoT. Simon highlighted areas like energy and facility management as promising growth spots, especially as companies aim to cut their carbon footprints and boost energy efficiency. If we’re serious about net-zero, we have to help customers be smarter about their usage.

Gary pointed out that smart homes could play a massive role in achieving sustainability goals. When households can see their water, gas, and electricity usage all in one place, it’s easier for them to manage costs and do their part for the environment. Imagine a single platform that pulls all your utility data together, making it simple to understand and act on - that’s where we’re heading.

Making Interoperability a Priority

Dan wrapped things up by underscoring the need for interoperability to ensure the success of LPWAN and IoT solutions. Legacy systems, different connectivity options, and proprietary data need to be able to work together seamlessly. Bringing existing data from older systems into modern networks like LoRaWAN will be key for truly smart, interconnected systems. For that to happen, we need everyone on board - from tech providers to government agencies.

In a Nutshell: Overcoming Hurdles to Realise The Full Potential of Smart Cities

Utility IoT is brimming with possibilities, but it won’t be smooth sailing, and we need more people to get on board. The panel made it clear that government support, data integration, security, and collaboration across industries are all vital to making real progress. Focusing on interoperability and aligning on a shared vision for smart cities will make a big difference.

At Connexin, we see IoT and LPWAN as more than just tech; it’s a chance to drive real social and environmental change. We’re in the early stages, and while there are challenges ahead, there’s also a huge opportunity. The journey is only just beginning, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of it.

Watch the full panel discussion here.