PPL Selects Nortel Networks Succession CSE 1000 for Converged, Voice Over IP Network

WASHINGTON, DC - PPL Corporation [NYSE: PPL], a FORTUNE 500 energy company, has chosen a voice over IP (Internet Protocol) solution from Nortel Networks [NYSE/TSX: NT] as part of a plan to merge its voice and data networks to drive reduced costs, and to provide services like unified messaging and video conferencing for its employees. Deployment is already underway, with completion expected by the end of 2003. This solution will feature Nortel Networks Succession Communication Server for Enterprise (CSE) 1000. Commonwealth Communications, a Nortel Networks enterprise channel 'partner,' is deploying this voice over IP solution for PPL. The PPL voice over IP deployment is the result of a relationship between PPL and Nortel Networks that continues to foster open dialog about PPL's communications needs and Nortel Networks product offerings, and has enabled PPL to become an early adopter of a solution that will satisfy its business requirements. "We anticipate that implementation of Succession CSE 1000, along with IP-enabling of new and existing Meridian* PBXs, will substantially reduce our costs and provide flexibility to expand the services available to our employees," said David Stever, manager, Communication Technology Services, PPL. PPL sought a communications solution that could meet the following objectives: reduce communications costs, provide consistent communications with employees across the country, support employee mobility and business continuity measures, and protect PPL's investment in existing analog telephones and Nortel Networks Meridian PBXs. In addition to PPL's expected cost savings, Succession CSE 1000 will help bridge employee communications, and Nortel Networks i2004, i2002 and i2050 Internet Phones will provide 'follow-me' features and functionality to enable employee mobility for PPL. "Enterprises want robust, reliable, secure IP telephony solutions for their communications needs," said Malcolm Collins, president, Enterprise Networks, Nortel Networks. "By working closely with PPL, we have helped position them to take advantage of the benefits of IP Telephony. This is a prime example of our 'One network. A world of choice.' enterprise vision - giving PPL the flexibility they need to implement an information infrastructure that serves their business case while maximizing performance and functionality." "The biggest value of our relationship with Nortel Networks is that we work as a team to address our communications needs," PPL's Stever said. "We always have Nortel Networks resources available to ensure that PPL succeeds in the communications network projects we undertake together."