Fog Computing for Smart Grids: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract: Smart grids (SGs) enable integration of diverse power sources including renewable energy resources. They can contribute to the reduction of harmful gas emission, and support two-way information flow to enhance energy efficiency, along with small-scale Microgrids, acting as a promising solution to cope with environmental problems. However, with the emerging of mission-critical and delay-sensitive applications, traditional Cloud-based data processing mode becomes less satisfying. The use of Fog computing to empower the edge-side processing capability of Smart grid systems is considered as a potential solution to address the problem. In this chapter, we aim to offer a comprehensive analysis of application of Fog computing in Smart grids. We begin with an overview of Smart grids and Fog computing. Then, by surveying the existing research, we summarize the main Fog computing enabled Smart grid applications, key problems and the possible methods. We conclude the chapter by discussing the research challenges and future directions.