Cambridge / Mannheim, 11 March 2025 – GE Vernova and PPC have successfully tested the interoperability of their broadband powerline (BPL) technologies. The focus of the collaboration was to connect GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit PowerNet to PPC’s smart meter gateway, which uses Nessum technology. This represents a significant milestone for broadband connectivity between medium and low voltage networks. This bridging is an important step towards a fully integrated smart grid.

A decisive step towards a smart grid

PPC’s leading smart meter gateways with integrated BPL capability have been successfully tested for compatibility with GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit PowerNet. GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit is a powerful wireless communication network platform that provides a common operating system, centralised management system, and robust network and cyber security features.

Remarkably, both systems work with different chipset manufacturers and still ensure seamless communication. This successful connection highlights the flexibility and performance of Nessum technology for secure and efficient broadband communication over power lines. This means that customers can now seamlessly connect different devices in a unified broadband network – for example, for applications such as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) or network control systems such as SCADA.

The most important advantages at a glance:

  • Upgrade of existing narrowband networks for new applications with significantly higher data rates.
  • Optimisation of network performance and throughput through bidirectional, adaptive modulation for each remote station.
  • Integration of applications such as CCTV systems.
  • Easy implementation of second-source strategies.

Why Nessum?

GE Vernova and PPC deliberately chose Nessum powerline technology because it enables more flexible use of the frequency spectrum. Nessum offers greater communication ranges with lower energy consumption, which means that even longer cable lengths or lines with high attenuation can be connected without problems. In addition, the Nessum Alliance creates an important basis for interoperability in large-scale network expansion projects.

With this successful interoperability test, GE Vernova and PPC are laying the foundation for the next generation of energy communication.