Characterization of Non Intentional Conducted Emissions Up to 500 kHz in Urban Environment

Abstract

The current interest in Europe to extend the frequency range for Narrowband Power Line Communications up to 500 kHz requires a thorough characterization of the non intentional emissions in this frequency range. This paper presents results of field measurements carried out in a dense urban environment, where the electrical devices are quite numerous and located at a short distance from the smart meters, and therefore, the effects of the non-intentional emissions on Smart Grids communications may be noticeable. In the study, spectral and time characterization of the recorded data was performed according to CISPR specifications, and then compared to recommended limits for non-intentional emissions in this frequency range. Results show that the levels of the emissions above 150 kHz may exceed the recommended limits for spurious emissions in the frequency band, mainly near the smart metering devices, due to the nearness of different types of electrical devices connected to the grid. This work demonstrates the need of characterizing the non-intentional emissions up to 500 kHz for the proper performance of future Smart Grid applications in this frequency range.