Modeling and Analysis of Communication Network in Smart Microgrids

Real-time, reliable and integrated communication system is the key to the implementation and management of smart microgrid upper layers. In this paper, we propose a two-way communication system architecture for smart microgrids based on IEC 61850. Micro-power wireless technology and Ethernet are selected for this communication system. Furthermore, the communication data messages are classified according to their priorities. Then, a simulation model of smart microgrid communication system is established using a OPNET environment. On this basis, the effects of communication distance on system performance are analyzed. The performance of communication system is also discussed under constant and burst background flow, when Distributed Coordination Function and Enhanced Distributed Channel Access are used respectively.