The IEEE 802.15.4g standard for smart metering utility networks

Smart utility network (SUN) communications are an essential part of the smart grid. Major vendors realized the importance of universal standards and participated in the IEEE802.15.4g standardization effort. Due to the fact that many vendors already have proprietary solutions deployed in the field, the standardization effort was a challenge, but after three years of hard work, the IEEE802.15.4g standard published on April 28th, 2012. The publication of this standard is a first step towards establishing common and consistent communication specifications for utilities deploying smart grid technologies. This paper summaries the technical essence of the standard and how it can be used in smart utility networks.