Packet-oriented communication protocols for Smart Grid Services over low-speed PLC

Abstract

Advanced Metering Infrastructures require reliable communication links. This paper proposes a protocol stack for smart metering based on the parameters of a robust low-speed PLC physical layer. The protocol stack under consideration implements IPv6 on top of a contention-free media access control sub-layer, thereby allowing for maximum flexibility. Simulation results show that this protocol stack allows data transfers at acceptable latencies, despite low data rates at the physical layer.