Evaluation of interdependencies between mobile communication and electricity distribution networks in fault scenarios

Interdependency of mobile communication and electricity distribution networks has increased due to automation and digitalization. Ongoing modernization of grids has motivated energy companies to seek new cost-effective and reliable wireless technologies to enable real-time remote control and monitoring of electricity grids covering vast areas. In contrast to dedicated wireless control systems, commercial cellular networks provide wide-area coverage, existing infrastructure and inexpensive solutions for data and broadband services. Moreover, their performance and robustness have been validated by millions of users over the past few years. This paper presents the simulation results of utilizing commercial mobile networks (GSM-900 and UMTS-900) for a smart grid in a remote control of medium voltage electricity distribution networks in rural and suburban areas.