Communication Technologies and Data Exchange Possibilities for Smart Energy Solutions

Abstract

The new trends of electrical grids lead to an intelligent power grid able to adapt to the current power consumption in real time. A modern electrical grid also should be able to manage quite a number of smaller renewable power sources and the different specific electrical devices connected to the grid. Such system considers two-way electricity flow depending on current needs. To achieve such functionality of the power grid, it is necessary to provide data exchange and proper communication technology between particular grid nodes has to be chosen as well. A definition of Smart Grid system is described, and a few conceptual models are mentioned. This paper further deals with Power Line and Internet of Things communication. The technologies such as Sigfox, LoRa and NB-IoT are surveyed with an intention to integrate the Smart Grid into an Internet of things network. The main advantages and disadvantages for use in Smart Grid systems are stated. The paper further deals with a desing of a custom hardware platform suitatable for an implementation Power Line Communications and Internet of Things networks in Smart Grid systems. The platform is design as a customizable system, that allows the user to choose the proper communication standard depending on a particular installation requirement. Last but not least, communication range, reliability and consumption tests are evaluated.