Smart Grid Communications: Overview of Research Challenges, Solutions, and Standardization Activities

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Fan Z., Kulkarni P., Gormus S., Efthymiou C., Kalogridis G., Sooriyabandara M., ...More

IEEE COMMUNICATIONS SURVEYS AND TUTORIALS, vol.15, no.1, pp.21-38, 2013 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 15 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2013
  • Doi Number: 10.1109/surv.2011.122211.00021
  • Journal Name: IEEE COMMUNICATIONS SURVEYS AND TUTORIALS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.21-38
  • Keywords: Smart grid, smart metering, demand response, interoperability, standards, wireline and wireless communications, renewable energy, security, privacy
  • Karadeniz Technical University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Optimization of energy consumption in future intelligent energy networks (or Smart Grids) will be based on grid-integrated near-real-time communications between various grid elements in generation, transmission, distribution and loads. This paper discusses some of the challenges and opportunities of communications research in the areas of smart grid and smart metering. In particular, we focus on some of the key communications challenges for realizing interoperable and future-proof smart grid/metering networks, smart grid security and privacy, and how some of the existing networking technologies can be applied to energy management. Finally, we also discuss the coordinated standardization efforts in Europe to harmonize communications standards and protocols.