Optimal placement of data aggregation points for smart metering using wireless heterogeneous networks

This paper presents a heuristic model that optimally deploys the resources used to obtain a metropolitan and neighborhood area network with connectivity between the central office of an electricity company and the integrated meters in the homes of the clients-consumers. The presented model is not limited to relax a problem NP-Complete through grouping techniques or search by iterative processes which is the minimum or maximum distance that allows to obtain a feasible mesh that guarantees the connection of the smart meters in a real scenario; on the contrary, the work presents an option that allows reducing investment costs and achieving a heterogeneous wireless network that articulates several options in contrast to the cellular technology that would increase the investment considerably in the advanced measurement infrastructure; additionally, it includes the ability of wireless technology to achieve a long-term deployment that is scalable for the inclusion of new smart meters, but with the lowest cost considering to the minimum number of concentrators or data aggregation points of the initial feasible set determined by the corners where there are public lighting poles. The model achieves routing between smart meters, data aggregation points and cellular base stations that finally connect with the central office.