The document discusses the role of mission-critical communications as an essential enabler of the smart grid. It notes that grid operations are moving to a more distributed architecture requiring two-way data communication between various components. The telecommunications industry can offer expertise to help build out the smart grid, but utilities have unique needs that challenge typical design principles and require specialized technologies.

1. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Mission-Critical Communications
essential enabler of the Smart Grid
Wim D’Hondt
Senior Manager
EALA Smart Grid Communications Technology Lead
Accenture
wim.dhondt@accenture.com
Wim D’Hondt – Accenture– RT 3c.

2. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Innovation relies increasingly on Comms
p Grid operations, monitoring and control
are moving to a distributed architecture
p Widespread adoption of EV, PV,
distribution automation requires 2 way
data communication
p Increasing migration to IP-based
technologies (SEP2.0/IEC 61850, P2030)

3. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Evolving challenges
Historically Future
Purpose-build for each Integrated networks that can
application support multiple applications
Limited network connectivity Ubiquitous coverage required
especially for distribution also in hard to reach and
hazardous locations
Trickles of Data Data Tsunami
High availability only in some Support high availability
locations throughout the grid (up to
99,999+%)
Support Quality of Service
Layer 2 oriented Layer 3 with need for QoS
Not connected to the Internet Be connected to the Internet
without jeopardizing security

4. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Role of communications industry
p The Telecommunication Industry can offer
significant experience, knowledge and
technology to support the build out of the
smart grid .
p But Utilities have unique needs that will
test typical design principles and
technologies
p Typical telecommunication products do not
meet utility needs and the utility business
is fairly complex.

5. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Concrete Challenges
p Do we really understand Smart grid network
requirements?
p Should we build or own the communications
network?
p Is Smart Metering an asset or hindrance for
smart grid
p How can I keep the network secure?

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Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
AMI is a key building block to Smart Grid
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Integrated Smart Grid Programme
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7. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Integrated Communications
Substation Automation: Corporate Applications:
• Real Time communication to RTUs, • Very high speed and low latency
breakers, relays, and other
• Carry Telecom Traffic for Utility
equipment.
• Carry Video and Security data
• Video Surveillance will drive up
from critical assets back to
data
control Center
speed requirements.
Smart Grid
Communications
AMI : Blueprint
Distribution Automation:
• Coverage across entire service
territory • Monitor capacitor banks
controls, regulators, switches,
• Capacity to support meter reading, reclosers, fault circuit indicators
demand response and HAN devices and sensors
• Reliable, secure and cost- effective • Low throughput, very low
7backhaul latency < 1 second for
• Security for data and integration messaging

8. Frankfurt (Germany), 6-9 June 2011
Utilities will need to:
p Skill up and learn
p Collaborate with industry and regulators
p Educate suppliers on specific needs
p Lead the way in standardization