EDUTUTE Technologies: Smart Grid and Communication Technologies

The idea of Smart Grid has started to evolve more rapidly with the enhancement in Communication Technologies. One important feature of the smart grid is the integration of high-speed, reliable and secure data communication networks to manage the complex power systems effectively and intelligently. As these communication networks are responsible for delivering power system related messages, we discuss specifically the network implementation considerations and challenges in the power system settings.

Above figure is an illustrative framework of next-generation power grid, where A is a wind power plant, B is a large hydro power plant, C is a coal-fire power plant, D is a geothermal power plant, E and F are houses with solar-electricity generation, G and H are houses with wind-electricity generation, I is the power transmission infrastructure, J is the communication infrastructure, and K–Q are the seven constituent domains that are bulk generation, transmission, distribution, operation, market, customer, and service provider, respectively.

Above figure is an example of communication architecture in smart grid, where A is a power substation, B is segment of power transmission lines, C is a PEV charging station, D is a residential subdivision installed with solar panels, E is a residential complex with AMI, and F is an energy smart house with electric appliances connected to the smart grid. The Internet and ISPs serve as the backbone in connecting the distributed subnetworks.

Some major communication technologies include IEEE specified ZigBee, WiMAX and Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) technologies, GSM 3G/4G Cellular, DASH 7 and PLC (PowerLine Communications), with special focus on their applications in Smart Grids. The Smart Grid environments and domains such as Home Area Automation, Substation Automation, Automated Metering Infrastructure, Vehicle-to-Grid Communications, etc. are considered as priority areas for developing smarter grids.

Blow image shows penetration level of different communication technologies for smart grid.