The smart grid is ostensibly the next generation power grid in which electrical energy distribution and management is efficiently performed by exploiting information communication technologies such as pervasive computing, in the control and decision-making processes. The smart grid is characterised by such functionality as being able to adapt to load and demand changes, intelligently manage bidirectional data flow and crucially enhance system reliability, robustness, security and sustainability. Communication networks play a crucial role in facilitating these features and are an integral component in any smart grid management system. In this chapter, the role of the communications network in smart grid operation is described together with its main functionalities. In particular, the challenges and opportunities for integrating existing and future wireless and mobile networks into the smart grid will be analysed, while the chapter concludes by identifying some future research directions for smart grid technologies
