Review of machine to machine communication in smart grid

Machine to machine communication (M2M) is a communication architecture that enables heterogeneous devices to interact with each other without human intervention. Smart Grid (SG) is one of the many applications areas in the M2M communication. Smart Grid demands advanced communication infrastructure for two-way communications between devices deployed at various locations in energy generation, transmission, distribution and consumption. The billions of electronic devices connected to the Smart Grid pose a big challenge to grid communication. Therefore, a feasible solution to efficient M2M has to overcome challenges of energy efficiency of connected devices, interoperability, coverage area, interference, sleep/wake up time of devices, etc. This paper reviews the current research status in M2M communication, especially for Smart Grid. It also discusses the development of standards for M2M communication. Suitability of Cognitive Radio for Big Data communication in M2M communication network is also examined.