Leveraging the smart metering infrastructure in distribution automation

For most utilities, deployment of the smart metering infrastructure (SMI) is the first step towards modernization of the electrical power grid (a.k.a. Smart Grid). SMI initiatives involve significant investments in a pervasive communications network that covers most of the distribution grid. Many utilities intend to leverage these investments in their future Smart Grid initiatives particularly in distribution automation (DA) which entails remote monitoring and control of field devices in the distribution grid. In this paper, we look at DA communications requirements and review commonly-deployed SMI solutions. We then discuss the standardized architecture of multi-service SMI radio frequency (RF) mesh networks in more detail and provide a real-world case study of BC Hydro DA plans.