BPL (Broadband over Power Line) is a technology that allows TCP/IP based data to be transmitted over utility power lines. BPL is also sometimes called Internet over power line (IPL), power line communication (PLC) or power line telecommunication (PLT). The technology uses medium wave, short wave and low-band VHF frequencies and operates at speeds up to 200Mbps. BPL technology provides scalable two way data communication over existing power line infrastructure. A BPL based network provides two way high-speed connectivity services at 200Mbps between the utility network, smart meters, and consumer network and appliances.

Advantages of AMI BPL Solutions

Significant cost saving
The initial cost of implementation of BPL as the AMI communication network technology may be higher compared with narrow-band based PLC or other wireless technologies. However, high bandwidth and scalable functionalities of BPL add significant cost savings to the maintenance of AMI and implementation of future smart grid applications. BPL also provides a cost-effective alternative solution for last mile broadband access to home and office buildings.

Supports wide range of applications and future extension
Bi-directional broadband bandwidth offered by BPL supports wide range applications such as real time monitoring, video surveillance, SCADA, tele-protection and other consumer services, which all aim at improving customer satisfaction.

Ease of central control and remote management
The system supports standard–based SNMP network management protocol which reduces maintenance cost tremendously.

Secure transmission
Like all IP based networks, there are many potential threats and vulnerabilities within an AMI network. Utilities are now moving from a world of offline meters to a network of smart meters communicating on 7x24 basis. Security measurement is an important task in the planning of AMI. BPL provides enhanced security by leveraging standard based DES/3DES encryption to ensure the protection of consumer data and AMI infrastructure.

Economical and flexible solutions for low density rural areas
In most rural areas, cellular signal are not easily accessible as wireless coverage is much lower. Narrowband PLC system provide an economical AMR solution but often lacks the real-time communication capability and critical reliability as it takes longer to collect data and failure rates are higher.

Infrastructures built with BPL technology can solve many of the issues described above and provide economical and flexible solutions for data collecting for low density rural communities.

Smart Grid Solution Diagram

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