Utilities are ramping up their investments in grid connectivity and networking for the purpose of improved operating economics, energy efficiency, and grid reliability. But there is also growing recognition that the network that supports smart grid applications like advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), distribution automation (DA), and/or substation automation (SA) could become the backbone for far more than these version 1.0 smart grid applications. Utilities that deploy a ubiquitous, high capacity communications network territorywide?an Energy Superhighway?will be in a position to provide connectivity services in a wide range of domains, including smart city applications such as smart street lighting, smart parking, transit services, security, and more. While the traditional practice of making siloed investments in application-centric networks remains the status quo at most utilities, Navigant Research believes a shift is forthcoming. The evolution of Internet of Things (IoT), which is more than just a buzzword, is dependent upon widespread communications networks. As a result, utility deployments of networking and communications technologies for smart grid?and in some cases, smart city?applications are accelerating. According to Navigant Research, global utility spend for smart grid and smart city networking and communications is projected to grow from $5.4 billion in 2016 to $9.5 billion in 2025. This Navigant Research report provides a detailed review of the state of utility communications network deployments and services consumption worldwide. The study provides a long-range outlook for 12 prevalent wired and wireless communications technologies that utilities may leverage for smart grid and smart city applications. Global market forecasts for communications infrastructure and services, segmented by technology, application, and region, extend through 2025. The report also examines the key market and technology issues related to utility networking and communications equipment and services for smart grid and smart city applications, as well as the competitive landscape.