Collaboration between Bayernwerk and EFR in BPL project – EFR broadband powerline system according to G.hn standard

EFR GmbH has been working with broadband powerline technology for quite some time now, and this technology is now also being used in the network area of E.ON distribution network operator Bayernwerk Netz GmbH. BPL technology is already playing an increasingly important role in the digitization of the low-voltage network and significantly supports communication in the smart grid.

EFR is demonstrating another area of expertise by providing a comprehensive broadband powerline (BPL) solution consisting of hardware and a sophisticated and efficient management system (NMS). EFR relies on the BPL standard G.hn, which has proven itself in the fields of home automation and smart grids for some time now and has by far the largest market share.

G.hn is characterized by high robustness and performance and, in combination with or as an alternative to other technologies such as public mobile communications, offers metering point operators/network operators the security of being able to meet the connection rates of at least 90% required by law.

„The reliable communication connection of the smart meter gateway is the key factor for the smart meter rollout with grid control capabilities. EFR has its roots in its role as a communication provider for grid control. Therefore, the G.hn-based BPL product family is a critical component for us to deliver a highly available smart grid“ explains Paul Martin Halm, Executive Director of Development.

Markus Hofsäß, responsible for the strategic development of communication technology, in particular powerline technology at Bayernwerk Netz GmbH, sees this as a decisive step:

“We use BPL as our communication technology because it enables us to reliably meet the legal requirements regarding connection rates for smart meter gateways and also guarantees that all safety requirements for the operation of critical infrastructure are met. With EFR, we have another provider that not only offers BPL communication in accordance with the G.hn standard we use but also works with us to further develop this standard at all levels and in all standardization committees into a fully interoperable standard.”

To strengthen standardization and interoperability between providers, EFR has joined the powerline industry association “HomeGrid Forum (HGF),” which is helping to shape the development of the BPL standard G.hn and to which E.ON also belongs.

Livia Rosu, President of the HomeGrid Forum, emphasizes:

„We are pleased that EFR has joined us as another innovative partner who will join forces to advance the G.hn standard in the smart grid. With the rising global need for smart cities and energy management, we value EFR and E.ON’s expertise in advancing G.hn development and deployment in these sectors. “

With the BPL system of EFR, the existing power grid becomes a powerful communication infrastructure, offering the advantages of secure data transmission and real-time availability.