Innovative Partnership Unleashes Cyber-Secure 5G Testbed for Energy Solutions

In an exciting new collaboration, Everged, a prominent player in smart power and alternative energy solutions, has joined forces with Betacom, a leader in private wireless networks. Together, they are partnering with the Alabama Mobility and Power Center (AMP) at The University of Alabama to establish an unprecedented cyber-secure innovation testbed that leverages cutting-edge 5G ORAN technology.

A Step Towards the Future of Energy and Connectivity

This groundbreaking initiative will create a fully stand-alone wireless network powered by LG Electronics, enhanced by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies. Located at the University of Alabama, this innovative testbed will serve as a live laboratory, setting the stage for next-generation applications across diverse fields, including alternative energy infrastructure, autonomous robotics, and sustainable transportation.

According to Johan Bjorklund, CEO of Betacom, this partnership speaks volumes about the synergy between industry and academia in tackling complex challenges in modern energy and transportation. The collaboration will not only provide students and faculty at the University of Alabama with hands-on experience in futuristic applications powered by private 5G, but it also aims to drive advancements in environmentally friendly self-driving transit systems.

Building a Robust Infrastructure

The backbone of this initiative is a reliable private 5G network designed for high-performance connectivity. Unlike conventional Wi-Fi, this network will offer secure, software-managed connectivity capable of supporting thousands of devices simultaneously, even in expansive environments. The reliability provided by this high-performance infrastructure is fundamental for the future of mobility and power systems.

Jefferson W. Smith, CEO of Everged, expressed his enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, "Autonomous EV charging and next-generation mobility cannot progress without secure, high-performance connectivity. We are thrilled to be partnering with Betacom and The University of Alabama to accelerate the development of these essential technologies."

The infrastructure will include advanced charging stations, autonomous charging systems, and smart grid management solutions aimed at facilitating the research and development of autonomous systems and resilient EV charging solutions. Furthermore, this partnership is set to significantly enhance the research capacities at the University of Alabama, creating a unique environment that fosters innovative technologies.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

Mike Oatridge, Executive Director of AMP, referred to this collaboration as a landmark step, emphasizing the unique opportunity it presents for students and faculty. With state-of-the-art research facilities and a focus on real-world testing, this partnership is laying the groundwork for smarter, more resilient energy infrastructure that will benefit future generations.

Joonsung Lee, VP of 5G Product at LG Electronics, added that LG is proud to support the development of the scalable and secure solutions required for a successful 5G ORAN deployment. As this partnership progresses, the collaboration will not only enhance the university's role as a leader in research and innovation but also contribute to broader advancements in electric vehicles and smart power systems.

Conclusion: A Future Enhanced by Innovation

In conclusion, the collaboration between Everged, Betacom, and the Alabama Mobility and Power Center marks a significant advancement towards the future of mobility and energy. With the initial steps already in place for developing a cyber-secure 5G ORAN testbed, it poses a promising vision of integrating technology, sustainability, and innovation in ways that can reshape entire industries. As we move forward, the potential applications of this groundbreaking work may revolutionize how we think about energy, transportation, and connectivity in our daily lives.