5G Powers The Smart Grid


The smart grid refers to a new generation of power systems based on the traditional power system by integrating new energy, New Materials, new equipment and new technologies.

Smart networks are characterized by a high degree of information, automation and interactivity. It can make safe operation come true, reliable, economical and efficient network.

Intelligent Network
Smart networks combined with 5G

The electrical communication network is an important infrastructure to support the development of smart grids.

Can guarantee security requirements, real time, precision and reliability of all types of energy services.

On the distribution side, in particular, communication needs have expanded all types of network equipment and power terminals.

This requires the construction of a full coverage distribution communication network, with the support of new technologies and communication systems.

There are a number of emerging communication technologies, like Cat.1 and Cat.4. These technologies are playing a role in smart grid acquisition and control.

Smart meters based on emerging IoT technologies are gradually replacing traditional ones due to their low energy consumption and low cost.. The emerging communications technology with the greatest value and potential is undoubtedly 5G.

With its three great technical characteristics and its exclusive network segmentation technology, 5G can achieve full coverage of application scenarios.

Currently, The industry has studied and landed on four major application scenarios for 5G in smart networks..

smart substations
Smart substations in smart grids

Differential protection

5G has ultra-low latency features, less than 1ms. The replacement of the fiber 5G allows a significant reduction in fiber laying and makes installation difficult.

So, can reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Unmanned inspection

In scenarios such as robotic inspection of substations, Using 5G drones can reduce labor costs and safety risks.

It can also greatly improve inspection efficiency and enable real-time high-definition video transmission..

Advanced measurement

5G can connect a huge number of smart meters. So, will provide customers with personalized needs, As the smart use of electricity.

Network segmentation

Network slicing is a new technology exclusive to 5G. Allows the creation of customized networks specific to the energy sector.

Better meets security needs, reliability and flexibility of network business. 5G segmentation technology can prioritize high-priority services.

And if necessary, meets the needs of emergency services through flexible segmentation resources.

5G power terminals are still in the early stages of commercialization. Until now, among chip manufacturers, Qualcomm, Huawei Heisi and others have been providing 5G baseband chips for industry use one after another.

Compared with the 4G era, 5G industry applications follow consumer market.  The entire industrial chain deserves to be used. The key markets of the industry, like smart grids, will be the key direction of expansion.