Communications in Smart Grids

Abstract

For years, analog communication networks have provided channels that allowed long-distance information exchange. However, with the arrival of digital communications it was possible to employ physical mediums that have their own capacity to transfer large data packets in a reliable and efficient manner. Digital communication networks and data services have provided solutions that optimize thousands of processes worldwide. In the smart network environments such solutions have proved successful. A good example of this is the application on protective relaying. It is known that protection functionalities have maintained the theoretical foundations since they were first developed. However, the operation of protective relaying has been greatly improved in time response due to the availability of much faster relays based on the numerical technology as well as the wonderful development of communication capabilities that have been attained in recent years. The standardization of protocols brought a convergent platform to implement solutions based on open and flexible solutions. However, since high levels of reliability, availability, and security are required by electrical system networks, the protocols needed to be adapted to offer lower levels of latency and larger broadband. In the following sections reference will be made to important topics pertaining to the effect of communications on distribution automation and in general on Smart Grid, including the OSI model, the most popular protocols, and the transmission mediums. Special attention is given at the end of the chapter to the IEC 61850 Standard, considering its huge impact in all aspects of power system automation handling.