Abstract
The smart grid is a combined process of revitalizing
the traditional power grid applications and introducing new
applications to improve the efficiency of power generation,
transmission and distribution. This can be achieved by leveraging
advanced communication and networking technologies. Therefore
the selection of the appropriate communication technology for
different smart grid applications has been debated a lot in the
recent past. After comparing different possible technologies, a
recent research study has arrived at a conclusion that the 3G
cellular technology is the right choice for distribution side smart
grid applications like smart metering, advanced distribution
automation and demand response management system. In this
paper, we argue that the current 3G/4G cellular technologies are
not an appropriate choice for smart grid distribution applications
and propose a Hybrid Spread Spectrum (HSS) based Advanced
Metering Infrastructure (AMI) as one of the alternatives to
3G/4G technologies. We present a preliminary PHY and MAC
layer design of a HSS based AMI network and evaluate their
performance using matlab and NS2 simulations. Also, we propose
a time hierarchical scheme that can significantly reduce the
volume of random access traffic generated during blackouts and
the delay in power outage reporting.
