CyanConnode plc (LON:CYAN) is a world leader in narrowband radio frequency (RF) smart mesh networks and has won orders for a total of 5.3 million Omnimesh modules to date.
India’s journey towards smart metering, a cornerstone of modernizing its energy distribution, has reached a pivotal stage. The ISGF White Paper which you can read below, critically assesses various aspects of this transition, emphasizing the superiority of Radio Frequency (RF) mesh technology over cellular solutions.
RF Mesh: The Preferred Choice for Last Mile Connectivity
Major utilities globally, including those in North America, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, have predominantly opted for RF mesh technology for last mile connectivity in Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) systems. This choice stands out for its reliability and efficiency, contrasting with the cellular technologies adopted by a few countries like the UK and some Scandinavian nations.
Cellular Technology: A Costly Affair
The paper highlights a significant concern with cellular technology – the impending Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) fees. This issue, originating in Europe, poses a financial burden as smart meter deployments on cellular networks scale up. Such fees could translate into substantial costs for Indian projects, impacting the overall economics of smart metering.
The Role of HES and MDM in AMI Systems
At the heart of AMI systems are two crucial software solutions: the Head-End System (HES) and the Meter Data Management (MDM) System. HES plays a vital role in fetching meter data, while the MDM system acts as a central repository, integrating this data with various utility applications. A singular MDM in a Discom is recommended for harmonizing data across different meter makes and communication technologies, significantly reducing integration costs and improving data consistency and reliability.
Enhancing Customer Experience and Engagement
Smart Meter Operations Centre (SMOC) analytics, integrated with customer portals, offer real-time visibility on billing, energy profiles, prepayment information, and personalized energy-saving tips. This not only empowers consumers but also enhances their engagement with utility services, fostering a customer-centric approach in energy management.
Cyber Security: A Paramount Concern
With 250 million smart meters enabling two-way communication, the vulnerability to cyber-attacks escalates. Potential threats include bad data injection, spoofing, and DDoS attacks, among others. The paper underscores the importance of robust cyber security measures at multiple levels – from manufacturer certifications to operator and staff training. Adherence to international and national standards like NIST, NERC, ISO/IEC, and India’s IS:16335 is essential for safeguarding the power system from these vulnerabilities.
Choosing the right technology path is crucial. This ISGF White Paper sheds light on the advantages of RF mesh technology over cellular solutions, considering cost-effectiveness, system reliability, and security. As India progresses in its smart metering journey, these insights offer a roadmap for efficient, secure, and customer-focused energy distribution.
CyanConnode’s standards-based smart metering communications solutions offer scalable and secure technology for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) deployments.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure systems provide bi-directional communication between the utility and customers’ meters, enabling smart metering functionality. Data collected from remote meters can be sent via CyanConnode’s Head End System, which provides API’s to a customer’s meter data application. Alternatively, the meter data can be sent transparently sent to the customer’s head end or meter data management system.
CyanConnode Omnimesh technology delivers cost-effective smart metering communications capabilities, supporting the Smart Grid. Based on IPv6 6LoWPAN, Omnimesh is a secure and scalable solution that enables ease of integration and the efficient and robust implementation of large scale networks [of Omnimesh-based meters].
