Assessment and outlook of the OpenNode smart grid architecture

Abstract

With the arrival of new usages and stakeholders, the increase in fluctuating distributed energy resources, and the regulatory framework for grid operators, automation, monitoring and controllability are rising challenges for the distribution networks. The OpenNode project (www.opennode.eu), funded by the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under the Grant Agreement Number 248119, brings together nine organizations from six European countries to tackle these issues. To address these topics, the OpenNode partners have developed an architecture combining smart metering with grid automation, which would allow today's power networks to evolve into smart distribution grids, enabling reliable and efficient grid operation. In order to elaborate this system, the OpenNode project has focused on the research and development of: (1) An open Secondary Substation Node (SSN), an essential control component of the future smart distribution grid; (2) A MiddleWare (MW) to couple the SSN operation with the utility systems for grid and utility operation; (3) A modular communication architecture based on standardised communication protocols.The paper describes the characteristics of the system and its benefits. We will go through the logic that led to the specification and implementation choices. The final assessment process will be detailed to provide an evaluation of the project's output.

Middleware Architectures for the Smart Grid: A Survey on the State-of-the-Art, Taxonomy and Main Open Issues

“…Leménager et al [66] have put forward their own solution for middleware in the Smart Grid based on the development works that have been carried out for the OpenNode project [67]. The proposal describes how the main concepts that are attempted to be achieved by the middleware proposal (modularity, extensibility, distribution of intelligence, open standards, cost effectiveness, common reference architecture) have been included in the design and implementation works.…”

Development of Middleware Applied to Microgrids by Means of an Open Source Enterprise Service Bus

“…Leménager et al [43] offered their own novel concepts for a middleware solution focused on the smart grid. They described the implementation work done as part of the OpenNode project [44].…”

Communications for AnyPLACE: A smart metering platform with management and control functionalities

“…The OpenNode project proposed an architecture that combines smart metering with grid automation to enable a reliable and efficient grid operation [3]. The specified solution followed a similar target, but without the strong focus on integrating the different country-specific regulations on smart grid integration [4]. The ADDRESS project studied, developed, and validated solutions to enable an active demand and exploit its benefits [5].…”