Why Fixed Wireless Access Is Becoming Essential for Utility Network Upgrades

As energy providers accelerate digital transformation in response to grid modernization and growing connectivity demands, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) has emerged as a viable alternative to legacy wireline solutions. According to the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), investor-owned electric companies in the United States are expected to allocate approximately $158 billion toward transmission infrastructure projects between 2024 and 2027. That’s where FWA, with its fast deployment and scalable coverage, becomes critical.

So what exactly makes Fixed Wireless Access such a game-changer for energy and utility companies, and how do decision-makers determine when to use 4G vs. 5G business internet?

In the latest episode, host Mike Kemmer, Principal Solutions Architect at Verizon, sits down with Greg Wagner, Product Marketing Manager for Verizon Business, to unpack the benefits of FWA. Together, they explore why utilities are turning to wireless broadband, how to navigate technology choices, and what support Verizon offers to ensure always-on connectivity.

Highlights from the episode include:

• FWA’s deployment speed and versatility make it ideal for remote or temporary sites like field and regional offices, where wireline may be delayed or unavailable.
• Choosing between 4G and 5G business internet depends on location and bandwidth needs: 4G offers broad coverage, while 5G delivers higher speed for denser, high-performance environments.
• Professional services and Inbiz support ensure ease of installation, next-day hardware replacement, and on-site signal validation—critical for resource-strapped utility teams.

Greg Wagner is a Product Marketing Manager at Verizon Business, focused on the Fixed Wireless Access portfolio. With expertise spanning LTE-BI and 5G-BI solutions, Greg engages directly with customers in the energy and utility space to help them evaluate connectivity options aligned to their operations. He represents Verizon’s commitment to delivering resilient, scalable, and efficient networking solutions.

Article written by MarketScale.