Private LTE and 5G networks powered by 800 MHz Band 26 deliver superior bandwidth and capacity—enabling the connection of millions of devices simultaneously with fewer tower sites. Signals travel farther, data moves faster and private LTE/5G infrastructure costs are much lower. A Private LTE or 5G network is the wireless solution for powering a smarter, safer and more resilient grid at scale - and 800 MHz Band 26 spectrum, with its established ecosystem, is the optimal frequency for operating advanced communications networks.
Rewiring spectrum. Reshaping the grid. Redefining what’s possible.
Ready to rethink your network?
Talk to a spectrum advisor today and discover how 800 MHz can future-proof your grid communications.
Meet Team 800. Grain Management, T-Mobile and Black & Veatch are bringing 800 MHz to utilities. Through deep analysis and business case development, we are proving that 800 MHz amplifies the power of private LTE and 5G to modernize the grid: restoring power faster, protecting crews and communities and ensuring secure, reliable service.
ROI is evident and industry momentum is gaining speed. Since its launch in March 2025, utilities covering a quarter of the U.S. population have submitted letters of intent to purchase 800 MHz spectrum and more are in process. The verdict is clear: 800 MHz spectrum for private LTE and 5G utility networks is the strategic choice for grid modernization and disaster response.
With optimal network performance, a deep vendor ecosystem, more bandwidth, better propagation and deeper coverage, this low-band, licensed, 3GPP-standard spectrum offers clear advantages.
Ready now, no interference
Skip delays and uncertainty of spectrum clearing. 800 MHz is clear, licensed and available today, so you can accelerate deployment and achieve resilient, smart grid connectivity faster.
Double the bandwidth
With over 2x the bandwidth of other options, 800 MHz supports advanced applications like AMI 2.0, distribution automation and Mission Critical Push to Talk (MCPTT) with room to grow.
Low total cost of ownership (TCO)
Superior coverage and capacity means fewer towers and less infrastructure. Black & Veatch studies show 800 MHz can reduce TCO by more than 200% over 20 years for utilities with large urban areas compared to other low-band options.
Enables cybersecurity & control
With 14 MHz of bandwidth available, 800 MHz provides utilities the necessary headroom to implement robust cybersecurity measures without compromising network performance.
Backed by a robust vendor ecosystem
Band 26 stands out as one of the most mature and widely supported low-band solutions available today. Trusted by U.S. carriers for decades, it ensures seamless interoperability for utility applications. Leading vendors already support it in production and new SKUs are actively being developed to expand its capabilities – making Band 26 a future-ready, low-band solution for private LTE and 5G.
As the exclusive sales agent for 800 MHz, Black & Veatch offers complimentary advisory services to help you evaluate your options. We’ll build a tailored business case with:
Conceptual field area network design
Traffic modeling and coverage analysis
Capacity, throughput and latency projections
Total cost of ownership (TCO) insights
Secure your spectrum footprint today – lock in pricing with zero cost commitment.
