Cambridge / Mannheim, March 11, 2025 — GE Vernova and Power Plus Communications AG (PPC) have successfully tested the interoperability of their broadband powerline (BPL) technologies. The collaboration focused on connecting GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit PowerNet with PPC’s smart meter gateway, which utilizes Nessum technology. This represents a crucial milestone for broadband connectivity between medium- and low-voltage grids. This integration is an important step toward a fully integrated smart grid.
A Crucial Step Toward the Smart Grid
PPC’s leading smart meter gateways with integrated BPL capability were tested extensively for compatibility with GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit PowerNet—with success. GE Vernova’s MDS™ Orbit is a powerful platform for wireless communication networks that offers a common operating system, a centralized management system, and robust network and cybersecurity features.
It is noteworthy that both systems use chipsets from different manufacturers yet still ensure seamless communication. This successful integration underscores the flexibility and performance of Nessum technology for secure and efficient broadband communication in power grids. This enables customers to seamlessly connect different devices within a unified broadband network—for example, for applications such as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) or grid control systems like SCADA.
Key benefits at a glance:
- Upgrade existing narrowband networks for new applications with significantly higher data rates.
- Optimization 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 allows for more flexible use of the frequency spectrum. Nessum offers greater communication ranges with lower energy consumption, which means that even longer cable runs or lines with high attenuation can be connected without any problems. Furthermore, the Nessum Alliance lays an important foundation for interoperability in large-scale grid expansion projects.
With this successful interoperability test, GE Vernova and PPC are laying the groundwork for the next generation of energy communication.
