Pike Research - Smart Grid Networking and Communications
Public and Private, Wired and Wireless Networks for Smart Meters,
Distribution Automation, Substation Automation, and Home Area Networks
The development of the smart grid up to this point has largely focused on highly visible, consumer-facing deployments of smart meters. While this has powered the market over the past few years, both in terms of revenue and visibility, much of the smart meter installation activity is projected to slow down, due to factors including the completion of large utility deployments, a reduction in federal stimulus funding, and the utilities’ desire to focus on projects that can more quickly deliver a positive return on investment. As such, the communications networks and equipment used to construct them are shifting from the high unit volume and less expensive nodes used in smart meters, to somewhat lower unit volume, yet higher value, networking equipment and communications gear found in substation automation projects, distribution network upgrades, and other projects that focus on delivering measurable grid efficiency improvements, enhanced security and reliability, and a path to a fully integrated grid-wide communications system.
While smart metering initiatives will continue to drive the market over the next 2 to 3 years, investment in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) networks will be reduced starting in the second half of the decade, as utilities focus on high-return grid enhancement projects that provide important reliability, security, and efficiency gains, with less need for the challenging process of customer education.
This Pike Research report analyzes the current market dynamics and future opportunities for public and private, wired and wireless networks for a range of smart grid applications including smart meters, distribution automation, substation automation, and home area networks. The study provides an in-depth examination of market drivers, technology issues and standards, and the competitive landscape for smart grid networking. Detailed market forecasts are included for unit shipments and revenue, segmented by technology, application, and world region, through 2020.
Key Questions Addressed:- What is the market opportunity, in terms of unit shipments and revenue, for each category and application of smart grid communication equipment?
- How are various smart grid projects using advanced communication systems in different regions around the world?
- What is the state of standards development in North America, Europe, and Asia?
- How viable are public cellular networks as an alternative to private wireless systems?
- What are the strategies of the utility industry with regard to key security issues?