Smart Grid Interrelated Communication Network

Smart Grid relies on a number of interrelated communications capabilities, namely:

• The ability to transmit and receive electronic signals (messages) between devices on the transmission and distribution grid.
• The ability to transmit real-time data from meters installed at the customer premises.
• The ability to control electronic devices installed within the customer’s location.
• The ability to control various monitoring systems used by the electric utility.

These electric systems and devices form a complex set of interrelated communication networks that require great care in their design and implementation The topology of these networks and their interoperability are critical characteristics.

Three Networks – New Technology

Smart Grid is enabled by three types of key communications networks. These networks include:

• The electric utility’s own communications network, which usually consists of Ethernet-based protocols and is run on either a wired or wireless infrastructure. These networks are normally quite mature, well-tested, fairly robust and reliable.
• The T&D system’s control network (including the meter at the customer premise), which tends to be more complex and less complete. They typically represent a hybrid of wired or wireless Ethernet, analog radio, and possibly even third-party carrier networks. Some networks even use proprietary fiber-optic networks and/or wireless networks using Wi-Max or Wi-Fi. The standards and protocols can vary quite significantly when connecting smart devices to these networks.
• The networks within the customer premises (residence or business). These networks are generally similar to those within the electric utility company (i.e. Ethernet-based, relatively mature, and reliable). In attaching smart devices to these networks, there is a distinct possibility that both reliability and performance will suffer unless the manufacturers ensure that the communication standards and protocols of these devices are compatible with these networks (and the networks within the electric utility and on the T&D system).

Standardization is Critical

Utilities, manufacturers and regulators are aware of these complexities and are working toward establishing standards to ensure a communication network that supports smart grid operation. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) list a number of standards that, if adhered to, will result in improved coordination and communication among these smart devices; and avoid the pitfalls inherent in the inadvertent omission or distortion of vital information.