Long Term Evolution (LTE), is the fourth generation (4G) of cellular communications, which allows getting over some of the GSM shortcomings, like insufficient coverage in indoor conditions for smart meters. This technology provides high capacity, low latency, secure and reliable data-packet switching. Compared with its predecessors, LTE uses new access schemes on the air interface for downlink and uplink, which brings flexibility in scheduling as well as power efficiency.
The fast roll-out of LTE has led to the wide use of this networking technology for, among others, smart metering, distribution automation, fault location, etc. Consequently, LTE is a promising choice to support IEC 61850 together with the Manufacturing Message Specification (MMS) protocol, for smart metering and remote-control services. The simulation carried out in Performance of LTE for smart grid communications assess the LTE capability to support IEC 61850 abstract objects and services mapping, by studying if LTE fulfils requirements like scalability, latency, reliability or QoS. This analysis highlights the functionality of Medium Access Control (MAC) scheduling mechanisms, which can be used to implement prioritisation of IEC61850 messages over background traffic. Throughput and packet loss ratio are measured at the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, while the delay is measured at the application layer. This study, along with others, present LTE as a good candidate to form part of the communication layer of the ebalance-plus platform.