Communication Network Architecture and Design Principles for Smart Grids

An integrated high performance, highly reliable, scalable, and secure communications network is critical for the successful deployment and operation of next-generation electricity generation, transmission, and distribution systems known as "smart grids." Much of the work done to date to define a smart grid communications architecture has focused on high-level service requirements with little attention to implementation challenges. This paper investigates in detail a smart grid communication network architecture that supports today's grid applications (such as supervisory control and data acquisition [SCADA] mobile workforce communication, and other voice and data communication) and new applications necessitated by the introduction of smart metering and home area networking, support of demand response applications, and incorporation of renewable energy sources in the grid. We present design principles for satisfying the diverse quality of service (QoS) and reliability requirements of smart grids. (C) 2010 Alcatel-Lucent.