Communication Technologies for the Smart Grid-A Short Review and a Case-Study Analysis

The rapid development of power systems requires an advancement of smart grids, to enable a more efficient management of power generation, distribution, and consumption, as well as an integration of a greater number of renewable energy sources. The key role in the functioning of these systems is played by the communication infrastructure which ensures a reliable, interoperable, and scalable data exchange across all levels of the network, from the end users to the central control system. The paper provides an overview of the modern communication technologies used in smart grids and analyzes their characteristics and application across the HAN, NAN, FAN, and WAN layers, and ultimately, the storage of the power network data to predict various variables related to the power consumption management, power system control, etc. A special emphasis is placed on selecting optimal technologies in accordance with the current infrastructural capabilities and technical requirements. It discusses a potential application of the communication technologies in future smart grids. Results for a segment of a real-world power system are presented, including measurements of photovoltaic power plant production and consumption, implemented communication technologies, and available data. The research results highlight the importance of choosing appropriate communication technologies for future smart grids. The data which is available, accessible, scattered across different databases can serve as a solid foundation for a significant improvement of the existing power systems.