As utilities require increased investment in fiber networks to support internal operational and grid management requirements, a new model has emerged that allows utilities to transform a traditional cost into a revenue generating asset that also supports the overall wellbeing of the communities they serve. 

The “Utility Smart Grid Model” lowers costs and accelerates the timeline for a qualified broadband service provider to deliver Gigabit broadband services. This structure, first introduced in Huntsville, AL where Google Fiber is leasing access to Huntsville Utilities fiber network, reduces the financial risk of building and maintaining fiber networks – to the benefit of a city, community, and region.

The second successful implementation of the  “Utility Smart Grid Model” was launched in 2019 by City Utilities of Springfield, MO.  In this network expansion initiative, CenturyLink will serve as the Anchor Tenant – a structure that results in no increase to rate payers and customers of the Utility.