Smart solution

Broadband powerline (BPL) technology is playing a key role in overcoming the challenges associated with the implementation and impact of smart grid. BPL has been widely deployed in Germany, converting existing electricity grids into an Internet-protocol-based communication platform. Every power line becomes a broadband data interface and power grids turn into intelligent systems, connecting to meters in homes and businesses. A BPL-enabled smart grid has significant advantages for consumers in terms of savings. It will provide the technology to enable suppliers to introduce more flexible, lower-cost tariffs at non-peak times. Access to this broader range of tariffs will encourage consumers to reduce their peak-time consumption, reducing the need for extra plants to cope with peak demand. The use of Internet protocol by the technology also means that additional smart-grid applications can be implemented as they become available.