Power Line Communication Feasibility Study for Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project of an Electric Utility in Pakistan

Abstract

Power Line Communication (PLC) leverages existing power lines for communication purposes, offering an economically viable alternative to other communication methods that entail the additional expense of establishing new infrastructure. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of tests conducted on PLCs within the context of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project, focusing on grid modernization. Addressing the unique challenges posed by power lines requires meticulous planning, particularly in the strategic placement of filters. The study specifically targets two urban areas, subjecting them to thorough examination using a Noise toolkit consisting of a Coupler and a Spectrum Analyzer. The research incorporates three distinct load types—domestic, commercial, and industrial—to conduct a comparative analysis of the results obtained. While PLC has been deployed internationally, there is limited large-scale field data available in the Pakistani context. This study contributes important baseline measurements and technical benchmarks, demonstrating that G3-PLC, operating in the FCC band, is a reliable and scalable solution for smart metering communication in urban distribution networks.