PLC Concept for LVDC Distribution Systems

The basis for smart grids is the implementation of active functionalities that interconnect the power system stakeholders, such as electricity end users (customers), producers, retailers, and system operators in a novel manner. Not only electric energy but also data flows are required between all the actors involved. A communication network between components and actuators is needed for functionalities such as grid operation, monitoring, and protection. This article studies powerline communication for a low-voltage direct current distribution system. An LVDC system is considered as part of future smart grids. The channel characteristic measurements carried out for an LVDC laboratory setup and the subsequent theoretical and practical analysis show that the studied LVDC distribution system provides a suitable medium for the high frequency band PLC between 5 and 20 MHz when an inductive PLC signal coupling method is used. Moreover, the article proposes an IP-based PLC network concept for the LVDC system; the concept is based on commercial industrial compliant HF band PLC modems.