Evolution of powerline communications for smart distribution: From ripple control to OFDM

This paper describes the evolution of powerline communications for the control of power distribution grids. First generation ripple control systems provide one-way communication, with which centralized load control and peak shaving have been performed for many years. The European standards body CENELEC restricted the use of frequencies between 3 kHz and 95 kHz for two-way communications for electricity distributor use. A number of second generation PLC systems with low data rates were proposed in the 1990´s, and Automatic Meter Reading systems have been deployed based on this technology. Third generation systems based on OFDM with much higher data rates are currently being developed and deployed for Smart Grids, Distribution Automation and Advanced Metering Management.