Induction causing Smart Grid communication failure, a case study from Hydro-Québec

Hydro-Quebec has started a Smart Grid project in 2003. Among the different telecommunication technologies, Hydro-Quebec has chosen the Public Telephone Infrastructure for financial reasons. However, telecommunication metallic lines are potentially exposed to voltage induction caused by current circulating on nearby electric lines. Voltage-limiting devices are used to protect communications equipment against voltage surges that can reach a very high level during a power fault. This paper presents a case where classical protection schemes of wire-line communication, combined with a high level of equipment electrical robustness requirement have not been sufficient to prevent in-service equipment failures. The problem investigation results are presented, along with solutions to prevent it.