JACKSON, Tenn. and SAN JOSE, Calif. — Aug. 17, 2021 — Jackson Energy Authority and Harmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT) announced today that they have teamed up to launch JEA’s groundbreaking, fully hosted headend management and video streaming solution for cable, broadband and telecommunications providers. Powered by Harmonic’s VOS®360 cloud platform, JEA’s E+ Premier managed headend solution provides secure signal processing and delivery of MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and adaptive bit rate (ABR) signals to MVPDs for traditional multicast distribution, as well as for live and on-demand video streaming to subscribers. This solution enables operators to consolidate and economize existing headends, launch advanced streaming services quickly, reduce infrastructure costs, and generate new ad sales revenues that may not have been previously available. E+ Premier has been successfully deployed by several U.S. operators.
“Operators today need an efficient and economical approach to video, and that has to include broadband video streaming services if we want to stay relevant as a video provider,” said Ben Lovins, senior vice president, telecommunications division at Jackson Energy Authority. “Working with Harmonic, an industry leader in cloud-based solutions for video streaming, we’re able to address this critical market requirement and provide operators with a turnkey solution that delivers an exceptional experience for their subscribers.”
As part of the managed headend arrangement, E+ Premier enables the elimination of expensive satellite reception and signal processing equipment, which allows operators to consolidate their headends quickly and deliver legacy multicast services to existing customers cost-efficiently. At the same time, it creates a platform on which operators can launch new video streaming services with the advanced features customers want. JEA’s own E+ Broadband division uses the platform to deliver streaming services to JEA customers, utilizing a SaaS business model to eliminate large upfront costs typically associated with launching video streaming services while providing a path for rapid growth. Harmonic’s worldwide team of DevOps experts provides 24/7 monitoring and assistance to ensure the highest service availability for JEA and its managed headend customers. The cloud-based solution is future-proof, allowing operators to stay up to date with the latest streaming demands while continuing to support legacy multicast services.
“E+ Premier combines Jackson Energy Authority’s expertise as an established operator with Harmonic’s innovations in cloud and streaming to reshape the way operators distribute video,” said Shahar Bar, senior vice president, video products and corporate development at Harmonic. “The solution offers the best of both worlds for the speedy launch of streaming services, complete with targeted ads and advanced customer features while reducing operational costs and complexities associated with traditional multicast services. It’s a unique offering in the market today.”
For more information about E+ Premier, visit https://info.harmonicinc.com/eplus-premier/. Further information about Harmonic and the company’s solutions is available at www.harmonicinc.com.
About Jackson Energy Authority
Jackson Energy Authority is one of the very few public utilities in the nation to offer all major utility services from one company. As a customer-owned utility, JEA combines utilities and broadband services with a hometown feel to provide unmatched service our community can count on now and in the future. From the highly visible utility and telecommunications services to the diverse array of less visible but equally important philanthropic efforts, JEA works to ensure that services are in place to meet current and future needs. Unmatched customer service paired with the strength of diversity in services and commitment to the community has enabled JEA to maintain its mission: to create value for its customers and help improve the quality of life in the community. More information is at www.jaxenergy.com.
About Harmonic
Harmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT), the worldwide leader in virtualized cable access and video delivery solutions, enables media companies and service providers to deliver ultra-high-quality video streaming and broadcast services to consumers globally. The company revolutionized cable access networking via the industry’s first virtualized cable access solution, enabling cable operators to more flexibly deploy gigabit internet service to consumers’ homes and mobile devices. Whether simplifying OTT video delivery via innovative cloud and software platforms, or powering the delivery of gigabit internet cable services, Harmonic is changing the way media companies and service providers monetize live and on-demand content on every screen. More information is available at www.harmonicinc.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Statements concerning Harmonic’s business and the anticipated capabilities, advantages, reliability, efficiency, market acceptance, market growth, specifications and benefits of Harmonic products, services and technology are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our current expectations and beliefs and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties more fully described in Harmonic’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and its Current Reports on Form 8-K. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Harmonic as of the date hereof, and Harmonic disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
Harmonic, the Harmonic logo and other Harmonic marks are owned by Harmonic Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.