Self-Diagnostic Advanced Metering Infrastructure Based on Power-Line Communication: A Study Case in Spanish Low-Voltage Distribution Networks

The transformation of low-voltage distribution grids toward decentralized, user-centric models has increased the need for advanced metering infrastructures capable of ensuring both visibility and control. This paper presents a self-diagnostic advanced metering solution based on power-line communication deployed in a segment of the Spanish distribution network. The proposed infrastructure leverages the existing power network as a shared-media communication channel, reducing capital expenditures while enhancing system observability. A methodology is introduced for integrating smart metering data with topological and operational analytics to improve network monitoring and energy management. This study details the proposed metering infrastructure, highlighting its role in enhancing distribution network resilience through asynchronous energy measurements, event-driven analytics, and dynamic grid management strategies. The self-diagnostic module enables the detection of non-technical losses, identification of congested areas, and monitoring of network assets. Furthermore, this paper discusses the regulatory and technological challenges associated with scaling metering solutions, particularly in the context of increasing distributed energy resource penetration and evolving European Union regulatory frameworks. The findings demonstrate that a well-integrated advanced metering infrastructure system significantly improves distribution network efficiency, enabling proactive congestion detection and advanced load management techniques. However, this study also emphasizes the limitations of PLC in high-noise environments and proposes enhancements such as hybrid communication approaches to improve reliability and real-time performance. The insights provided contribute to the ongoing evolution of metering infrastructure technologies, offering a path toward more efficient and resource-optimized smart grids.