Communications aspects of distribution network control

Because of its low position in the overall power distribution hierarchy, the distribution circuit RTU does not generally justify the cost of some form of permanent connection, such as a leased telephone line. Apart from anything else, it may well be located in such a geographical position that no line is available anyway. Despite this, the choice of communication links available are still numerous. They range from shared PSTN lines to low power radio, trunked private mobile radio, cellular services and public mobile data services. The author briefly discusses the features of these communication options. Only the low-powered radio option, and possibly the shared PSTN link, would allow a user to transfer directly the technology/methodology used for the high voltage SCADA systems to the distribution network. All other bearers would require the SCADA system, ideally, to be tailored to the bearer and application