Building a High-Reliability Communication Network with the TOWER LINK Concept

JPI Seminar: High-Reliability Communication Network

Event Title: Building a High-Reliability Communication Network: The TOWER LINK Concept
Date: December 1, 2025
Time: 13:30 - 15:30

The Japan Planning Institute (JPI) is set to host an enlightening seminar featuring Kensuke Ikeda, a senior researcher at the Grid Innovation Research Headquarters of the Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry. This session will delve into the TOWER LINK concept, which is aimed at creating a high-reliability communication network utilizing power transmission towers.

Background and Context

With Japan experiencing a declining population, the challenge of maintaining essential infrastructure such as electricity, railways, roads, water supply, and communication systems has become increasingly critical. To enhance operational efficiency and automation, the integration of digital twins, AI, and robotics is highly anticipated. However, a robust and reliable communication network is essential for these innovations to thrive.

The TOWER LINK Concept

The TOWER LINK (Transmission tower based Optical and Wireless Extremely Reliable Link) is designed to merge the realms of electric power and communication networks. By employing cutting-edge communication technologies like All-Optical Networks (APN) and millimeter-wave terahertz, the TOWER LINK will enhance the reliability of transmission systems. This fusion presents opportunities for sharing resources and fostering advanced collaborations across different industries, leading to new services driven by the integration of information communications with electricity and beyond.

Seminar Highlights

Here's a glimpse of the key topics that will be covered during the seminar:

1. A High-Reliability Communication Network Supporting Stable Power Supply
- Structure of self-operated communication networks
- Diverse systems for efficient electricity supply
- Craftsmanship in protective and control systems
- Interdependence of electrical and communication networks

2. Challenges and Innovations in the TOWER LINK Concept
- Issues with communications networks for infrastructure
- Application of new communication technologies:
- All-optical networks (APN)
- Broad-band wireless (millimeter-wave terahertz)
- Non-terrestrial networks (NTN)
- Potential applications, including:
- Digitalization, robotics, and drones
- Digital twins
- Aim for cross-industry collaboration:
- Equipment sharing
- Towards a sustainable infrastructure sector
- AI for Society 5.0 providing assistance in critical times

3. Implementing the TOWER LINK in Society
- Initiatives taken by the Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry
- Future plans for implementation

4. Making the Infrastructure Sector More Engaging with TOWER LINK
- Innovations arising from the union of information communication, electricity, and more
- The merging of energy and communication sectors

5. Q&A Session
6. Networking and Exchange
Attendees will have opportunities to exchange business cards and network with both the lecturer and fellow participants, which can facilitate business growth.

How to Attend

Participants can choose to attend the seminar in-person, via live streaming, or opt for on-demand viewing of the recorded session for two weeks, accessible at their convenience.

Registration Fees

- Individual fee: ¥37,560 (tax included)
- For two or more from the same company: ¥32,560 per person

*Special rate for local government officials: up to two individuals for ¥11,000 each (in-person or live participation only; same participation mode required for both).

More Information

For further details and registration, please visit JPI Seminar Link.

Join us for this pivotal seminar to explore the TOWER LINK concept, which promises to redefine the future infrastructure landscape in Japan and beyond.