KENNEWICK, WA - April 21, 2026 — Benton PUD and Anterix (NASDAQ: ATEX) have entered into an agreement for Benton PUD to acquire a 10 MHz 900 MHz spectrum license from Anterix, establishing the first private wireless broadband deployment among publicly owned utilities in the Pacific Northwest.

Benton PUD’s 900 MHz network will be utility-owned, utility-controlled, and purpose-built for the operational demands of its 927-square-mile service territory – serving more than 59,000 customers across the communities of Kennewick, Prosser, Benton City, and Finley.

The network will enable advanced grid automation, field workforce connectivity, enhanced outage detection and restoration, and the resilience required to meet Washington's Clean Energy Transformation Act obligations head on.

This agreement underscores a broader shift in the utility sector. Public Utility Districts (PUDs), both community-owned and locally accountable, are now joining investor-owned utilities in advancing private wireless adoption. What began as early innovation is quickly becoming standard practice, as utilities across ownership models recognize purpose-built connectivity as a strategic necessity.

“Our agreement with Benton PUD reflects the accelerating adoption of private wireless across the utility sector,” said Anterix President & CEO Scott Lang. “PUDs are among the most mission-driven utilities in the country, directly accountable to the communities they serve. When a PUD invests in private wireless, it’s because the case is undeniable.”

Benton PUD General Manager Rick Dunn said, “We see private wireless broadband as foundational infrastructure for the next generation of the grid. By deploying a 900 MHz private network, we’re strengthening operations, enhancing safety and service, and building a more resilient system for the communities we serve. Through Anterix and its ecosystem, we’re translating this investment into measurable outcomes across our service territory.”