For utility providers, communications networks are critical to maintaining reliable operations, supporting SCADA systems, and ensuring the continuous delivery of electricity to businesses and communities. As technology evolves, utilities must modernize aging infrastructure without introducing unnecessary complexity, risk, or operational disruption.
Nearly a decade after deploying its original Ceragon network, Midwest Energy embarked on a new modernization initiative to replace aging communications infrastructure. The utility selected Ceragon once again to upgrade the first 12 critical microwave links, building on a trusted relationship while simplifying procurement, deployment, and project execution.
THE CHALLENGES
Obsolete Infrastructure | Complex Procurement | Utility Network Modernization
Midwest Energy relied on a communications network built on legacy microwave technology that had served the organization reliably for years. However, portions of the infrastructure were approaching obsolescence and needed to be upgraded to support future operational requirements.
Historically, network upgrades required Midwest Energy to coordinate multiple suppliers for radios, antennas, installation services, logistics, and deployment activities. Managing numerous vendors increased project complexity and placed additional demands on internal resources.
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Legacy microwave equipment
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Need to modernize 12 critical communications links
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Multiple suppliers required for equipment, installation, and logistics
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Significant internal project coordination requirements
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Need to maintain reliable communications throughout the upgrade process
With additional modernization phases already planned, Midwest Energy needed a more efficient way to refresh critical infrastructure while minimizing complexity and administrative overhead.
THE SOLUTION
Simplified Modernization | Single-Vendor Accountability | Proven Technology
To modernize its communications infrastructure, Midwest Energy upgraded 12 microwave links from legacy IP-20 equipment to Ceragon's IP-50 platform. Rather than sourcing equipment and deployment components separately, the utility adopted a streamlined procurement and deployment model built around a single technology provider.
Ceragon supplied a complete modernization solution, helping simplify project execution while leveraging the utility's existing infrastructure wherever practical.
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Upgrade from legacy IP-20 technology to the IP-50 platform
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Modernization of 12 critical communications links
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Simplified procurement through a single supplier
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Reduced project coordination requirements
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Reuse of existing infrastructure where appropriate
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Foundation for future network expansion and modernization
By consolidating procurement and deployment under a single provider, Midwest Energy reduced complexity while accelerating the modernization process.
THE RESULTS
The modernization project provided Midwest Energy with an upgraded communications platform while simplifying the overall upgrade process.
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12 critical communications links modernized
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Migration from obsolete infrastructure to the IP-50 platform
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Reduced procurement and project management complexity
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Single-vendor accountability throughout the project
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Improved operational efficiency during deployment
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Additional seven links planned for future modernization phases
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Long-term roadmap to modernize the broader communications network
By building on a trusted nine-year relationship, Midwest Energy successfully modernized critical communications infrastructure while creating a scalable foundation for future network upgrades.
