A failure to communicate: next generation communication requirements, technologies, and architecture for the electric power grid

Abstract

The power grid engineering community is beginning to recognize a need to fundamentally transform the capabilities of the communication infrastructure that supports power grid operations. Better communications are key to providing improvements in security, efficiency, and reliability. This paper reviews current data communication practices for the grid and describes a new approach to data communications that will help realize the vision of a more resilient and efficient "smart" grid.