Electric cooperatives are experiencing a rapidly evolving communications landscape, driven by advances such as Private LTE, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, enhanced cellular reliability, broadband deployments, and FCC updates on frequency sharing. These developments have expanded the range of viable connectivity options for utilities, improving performance, security, and cost-effectiveness, while adding complexity to decision-making. This report reviews these developments and how co-ops need to carefully evaluate trade-offs in performance, cost, and long-term viability for a holistic approach to communications planning.
