Unified Metrics for Management of Smart Grid Home Area Networks

Abstract

The advent of the Smart Grid brings new network management challenges and opportunities. Multiple IEEE network technologies, including 802.11, 802.15.4 and P1901 can all support Smart Grid applications in Home Area Networks (HANs). Utilities need visibility into the HAN to ensure the network is operational and able to support critical applications such as Demand Response and Electric Vehicle Charging. This paper describes a set of network performance metrics that are consistent among the most prevalent HAN network technologies. These metrics enable higher layer network monitoring and management entities to support the HAN as part of the overall Smart Grid network.