5G multi-numerology applications in power distribution systems

In recent years, there has been a growing trend in power consumers’ adoption of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. The energy industry is currently undergoing a phase of innovation to integrate these sources into smart grids. However, the deployment of control networks poses a significant challenge in achieving effective monitoring, control, and data exchange functionalities. The emergence of fifth-generation (5G) networks provides a cost-effective opportunity to enhance capabilities in this regard. By leveraging multi-numerology techniques within the 5G framework, it becomes possible to efficiently share communication infrastructure with other services. This approach offers numerous advantages, including enhanced flexibility, quality of service differentiation, interference mitigation, scalability, and compatibility with existing communication systems.This paper focuses on the utilization of multi-numerology techniques to optimize resource allocation and improve the overall efficiency of smart grid operations. We consider Mobile Virtual Network Operators as power companies while the nodes represent sensors and actuators deployed in the power grid. To address the challenge of resource allocation, we propose a novel scheme that utilizes multi-numerology Radio Access Network (RAN) network slicing. This scheme aims to maximize observability and controllability within power distribution systems. We approach the problem by characterizing its fundamental complexity and developing suitable heuristics.Through extensive simulations conducted on the IEEE test feeders, we demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed algorithms in effectively balancing initially unbalanced power distribution systems. These findings highlight the significant benefits of employing multi-numerology techniques in optimizing resource allocation and enhancing the overall efficiency of smart grid operations such as demand management and load balancing.