Aviat Networks Study Provides Insight into Smart Grid Deployments

Aviat Networks has recently released the results of a nationwide survey that included the polling of public and private utilities to gain a better understanding of their technology plans for the selection and deployment of smart grid networks in North America.


Pike Research conducted the survey, which was commissioned by Aviat (News - Alert), in order to present conclusively findings regarding utilities' strategies for smart grid network and network management deployments. The survey aimed to collect factual, conclusive data that could help all related stakeholders make more informed decisions.

Results of this survey indicate that wireless technologies are considered to be very important elements of smart grid programs. WiMAX (News - Alert) is under consideration for nearly half of the utilities surveyed and RF Mesh, ZigBee and WiMAX are the three most important technologies being considered. At the same time, remote monitoring is also high on the list of security and management-related issues.

Other highlights from the survey show that 94 percent of participating utilities consider wireless technologies to be "critical", "very important" or "important". Another 47 percent are considering WiMAX as a networking option and 29 percent are still undecided.

Of the participating utilities, 41 percent are planning point-to-point microwave deployments or updates to their existing microwave and another 41 percent plan to purchase a new Network Management System (NMS) or upgrade their existing system. A remaining 41 percent still remain unsure as to their plans.

In regards to private network buildouts, 82 percent prefer this method, even though they tend to use public buildouts today in trials. Plans to deploy smart grid networks are in place in 77 percent of utilities and 50 percent already have their smart grid deployments underway.

With all the talk surrounding the smart grid, there are many still wondering how WiMAX will play a role in the planned deployments. For those 47 percent of respondents who are considering WiMAX, 63 percent may use it to deploy Supervisory Command and Data Acquisition applications.

Another 50 percent may use WiMAX to deploy Automatic Metering Infrastructure last-mile applications and 38 percent may use the technology to deploy AMI middle-mile applications.

The deployment of the smart grid and supporting technology is certainly a key focus for a number of utilities as they aim to reduce power consumption and provide a way for consumers to control what they use. While it will be an ongoing process, it will be one full of interesting changes for all involved.