Linkedin logo
Sales +44 (0)1452 764694
Technical +44 (0)1452 764692
Support Login or Create ticket
Finance & Admin +44 (0)1452 764702

UK Power Networks

Case Study Paknet Replacement Programme

Together with our partners, we developed a cost-effective, reliable solution to replace outdated Vodafone Paknet Pads across the UKPN network. By integrating Paknet emulation onto a cellular router using UMTS/LTE networks, we seamlessly modernized their legacy SCADA equipment.

11

distribution Sites

16,000+

nodes deployed

Paknet Replacement Programme

Cherry & White developed a cost-effective yet reliable solution to replace the EOL Vodafone Paknet Pads used throughout the UKPN network. Through the use of UMTS/LTE networks, Paknet emulation was introduced onto a cellular router to seamlessly integrate the modern solution with their legacy SCADA equipment.

In 2014 UKPN foreshadowed the rollout by stating that…

“The current contract allows Vodafone to give UK Power Networks
24 months’ notice of a termination. Were this to happen, there is a very high
risk that a large number of secondary SCADA RTUs would no longer
communicate, as it would be exceptionally challenging to change the
communications to all 5,461 secondary SCADA sites within this timeframe.”

James Ford, UKPN (2014), Asset Stewardship Report 2014, Page 11

With this challenge in mind, in 2019 we worked tirelessly with UKPN and our partners to develop a solution which in turn began to roll out early-2020. Despite the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last devices were dispatched to UKPN in late 2021 ahead of the complete network termination in 2022.

In order to maximise the rollout efficiency, an in-house setup service was provided which involved unique pre-configuration, bundling with mounting hardware and testing of each device prior to them being delivered to the site for installation.

 

UK Power Networks logo

UK Power Networks are the UK’s largest electricity distributor servicing over 8 million customers across the South-East, East and London.

Secure Wireless Connectivity For Digital Communications

Services Supported by Cherry & White

  • Cellular Devices
  • Mass Configuration
  • Misc Materials
  • Troubleshooting

Technologies Used

Require a Similar Service?

Case Study

Western Power Distribution

We have supplied critical infrastructure network solutions to Western Power Distribution since 2005, and a close working relationship continues today.
Among the numerous projects we’ve undertaken for WPD, one of our key responsibilities was to enhance the resilience and security of their existing fibre optic network. This was achieved through a meticulously managed, multi-stage implementation process of upgrading their PDH and SDH networks.

Learn more

Case Study

Kloud9

Kloud9 (AJ Technology LTD) has experienced rapid growth in the ISP space, and we have been their trusted partner throughout this journey. We’ve supported them in their mission to provide high-speed broadband across the UK, particularly with their rapidly evolving cabinet and network infrastructure.

 

 

Learn more