On Effectiveness of Mesh-Based Protocols for Smart Grid Communication Networks

The smart grid requires a reliable, efficient and cost effective communication network that meets performance requirements. Due to their cost effectiveness and ubiquitous nature, wireless mesh networks have been considered as an alternative for smart grid communication networks. In this paper, we first review smart grid communication network requirements by applying various use cases that enables the design of network models for simulation. Using the ns-3 simulator tool, we then systematically compare the effectiveness of two representative wireless mesh network protocols: Hybrid Wireless Mesh Network Protocol (HWMP) and Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV) Protocol in terms of various performance metrics and network settings. Our evaluation data shows that the HWMP protocol is suitable for small size mesh grids whereas AODV performs better for large mesh grids. We also conduct a simulation study to investigate the performance of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WIMAX) technology in smart grid communication networks with different modulation techniques.