Abstract : Currently the power sector is striving for theefficient utilization of its generation capabilities in existingdistributed energy networks. In future smart grids, applicationslike automated meter reading, direct load control with demandside management, and charging points for electric vehicles inmultistory parking plazas will pose a strong communicationchallenge to the RF planners. One of the main objectives isto design a realistic link budget for outdoor-to-deep-indoorwireless communication scenarios while utilizing the existinggrid infrastructure. This paper presents a realistic two-slopeempirical path loss model to predict power requirements for thewireless link between smart meters in prosumer premises andremote utility/grid devices presumably available in near vicinity.The proposed model is based on measurements performed overthree sub-gigahertz frequency bands (200 MHz, 434 MHz, and868 MHz) and the 2.4 GHz band. It supports outside, inside andin-basement deployment of the smart meter communication unit.
Index terms : Propagation loss model, smart grid communications, smart metering, wireless channel model, wireless sensor networks.