03 February 2020

WND UK, the Sigfox network operator, said it has deployed the first UK-wide IoT public network for secure sensor data, achieving over 90% population coverage in just 18 months.

Sigfox is a low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology, which is purpose built to provide low-cost connectivity and enable the use of cost-efficient silicon modules.

Harnessing ultra-narrow band technology, Sigfox provides basic connectivity to devices that do not require high throughput. This approach is ideally suited to the vast majority of IoT devices as it requires very little power, enabling devices to run for years on a single battery.

“We now have over 130 channel partners and the list is growing by the day. These companies are using the network for real-world commercial applications – from metering to flood detection to legionella monitoring," said Tim Harris, chief executive of WND UK.

Ian Rose, professional services director at WND UK channel partner PassivSystems, added: “We have pioneered the development of AMR, or automated meter reading, using Sigfox. As part of an ongoing deployment programme with a major utility, we’ve already delivered 3,000 meter readers for district heating installations, enabling accurate billing for residents. The market opportunity is substantial. Most retrofit AMR devices use mobile GSM networks but achieving reliable signal connections can be problematic. Heat meters are often tucked away, located in a basement or in housing blocks with poor signal coverage. Using Sigfox is cheaper than using GSM networks and we get a higher level of coverage that offers better penetration within buildings.”

Harris said the firm would be installing a further 500 network repeaters during 2020, which will further enhance its coverage.