Improving Smart Grid Reliability Using Software-Based Networking

Smart grid is a combination of technologies that emerged in response to the rapid changes in the way humans generate, transfer, distribute and use energy. An important characteristic of smart grid is its improved reliability, enabled by better use of grid knowledge and the distribution of grid intelligence. Currently, utilities face new challenges in developing networks that can meet more stringent communication requirements while limiting cost and complexity. This study proposes a new software-based networking platform, based on Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology, which aims to improve smart grid reliability by enabling more reliability-centred smart grid systems and by reacting immediately to communication problems while using real-time monitoring techniques. Using the principles of Software Defined Networking (SDN), Network Functions Virtualisation (NFV) and Machine-to-Machine Communication (M2M), this design aims to provide a more flexible and affordable approach to developing and maintaining large-scale grid communication networks while offering several features that improve grid reliability and performance. By using a topology based on a model of a real city distribution grid, this architecture was implemented in an emulated network environment. Results from the experimental evaluation show that these networks are easy to set up, maintain and scale using virtual machines. Furthermore, the results show that these networks can automatically detect and recover from several types of simulated communication failures without affecting smart grid operations. The results also demonstrate their capability to reduce network congestion. From these results, we conclude that software-based networking can offer promising design alternatives for smart distribution grids, capable of improving the grid’s overall reliability.