Zenner, EchoStar and Semtech have collaboratively revealed a groundbreaking innovation in utility technology: the first direct communication system connecting utility meters to satellites. This advancement marks a major leap in how water, gas and electric consumption data is collected, transmitted, and analysed—ushering in a new era of smart utility management, even in the most remote locations.
The satellite-enabled system transmits real-time data from meters directly to the satellite network leveraging the long-range and low power of LoRaWAN, eliminating the need for cellular networks or local data collectors.
This technology ensures universal meter monitoring through satellite coverage even expanding coverage into remote areas. It’s a game-changer for drought monitoring, leak detection, and efficient water resource management.
The benefits of this system are:
- Global reach: beyond traditional network infrastructure
- Low cost: affordable for small and large utilities through LoRaWAN
- Low risk: Eliminates the risk of technical obsolescence, enhanced by the flexibility of LoRaWAN open-source standards and the ability to connect to a terrestrial network
- Instant insights: real-time analytics to empower faster, smarter decisions
- Sustainable monitoring: enhances conservation efforts by providing accurate, reliable data without environmental disruption
ZENNER is an innovative smart utility manufacturer and technology company, moulding the future of the industry with both precision and invention for the past 122 years. ZENNER is one of the largest water and gas connectivity providers worldwide, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany and USA headquarters in Addison, Texas. ZENNER will continue to expand their connectivity innovation in all frontiers, including outer space.
“Innovation thrives at the intersection of ambition and necessity. Today, I am honoured to lead an achievement that redefines connectivity: the world’s first successful meter-to-satellite communication. This milestone is not just about technological prowess—it embodies a vision for a more interconnected and efficient world,” said Rich Sanders, President of Zenner USA. “For years, we have dreamed of bridging the gap between localised meters and global satellite networks, enabling seamless data transmission without reliance on traditional infrastructure. The realisation of this breakthrough is a testament to relentless perseverance, meticulous engineering, and the belief that the future can be shaped by those who dare to challenge the impossible.
“This pioneering moment marks the beginning of a revolution in real-time data accessibility, empowering industries ranging from energy and utilities to environmental monitoring. As we launch this technology into the world, we do so with the knowledge that connectivity drives progress.”
EchoStar Mobile is transforming IoT connectivity by uniting satellite and terrestrial connectivity infrastructures.
“Bringing direct to satellite connectivity into the water metering industry is transformative,” said Telemaco Melia, VP of EchoStar Mobile. “Together with Zenner and Semtech we are revolutionising the way utilities deploy and operate their services providing nation-wide, cost-effective coverage including the most remote regions.”
Semtech is pioneering the LoRa technology powering this satellite connectivity breakthrough. Their specialised chipsets enable the critical long-range, low-power communication essential for remote utility monitoring.
“This utility-to-satellite breakthrough represents LoRaWAN connectivity without boundaries,” said Rémi Demerlé, Marketing Director of Semtech’s LoRa ecosystem. “Enabling direct communication between meters and orbiting satellites through our LoRa technology eliminates terrestrial network infrastructure limitations that have traditionally constrained utility monitoring. Semtech’s collaboration with ZENNER and ECHOSTAR demonstrates how our innovative semiconductor solutions can affordably connect even the most remote locations, advancing sustainable resource management worldwide.”
Working together, LoRa Alliance members ZENNER, EchoStar Mobile, and Semtech are utilising LoRaWAN technologies to build the future of utility management with the first direct meter-to-satellite product that will be available in early 2026 from ZENNER.
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