5G New Radio channel coding for messaging in Smart Grid

Abstract The integration of the fifth generation of mobile communications (5G) into the distribution network has the potential to empower Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) applications, thus further advancing the concept of Smart Grid (SG). This paper analyzes the compatibility of 5G-NR (New Radio) standard-recommended coding schemes: Low-Density Parity-Check (LDPC) and Polar coding with message formats for generalized AMI and PMU communication recommended by standards IEEE Std 1703 and IEEE Std C37.118.2, respectively. Two standard-defined examples of communication sessions have been considered to determine the required 5G-NR transmission channel and associated coding scheme to be used for AMI and PMU-specific messages. The corresponding simulations have been performed following the specifics and boundaries defined by communication standards for 5G, AMI, and PMUs. In the AMI use case, simulation results indicate LDPC code superiority leading to the recommendation to be used for all message formats. PMU use case results reveal the Polar code application benefits for command messaging and its potential to be used for data messaging instead of LDPC code, which would require future adjustments of PMU data message format and further research on latency issues.