A Graph‐Theoretic Hybrid Communication Framework for <i>μ</i>PMU‐Based Smart Grid Applications

ABSTRACT The reliable, low‐latency, and cost‐efficient transmission of synchrophasor data is a fundamental requirement for deploying micro‐phasor measurement units (PMUs) in modern distribution grids. This paper introduces a graph‐theoretic hybrid communication framework that combines power line communication (PLC) over existing medium‐voltage lines with strategically placed fiber‐optic segments. The framework minimizes a multiobjective cost function incorporating latency, reliability, and installation cost, and is tailored to meet the stringent performance requirements of real‐time applications such as state estimation and fault localization. Simulation results, based on realistic substation‐level networks, demonstrate up to 43% cost reduction compared to full‐fiber deployments, while maintaining high reliability and security. These findings underscore the scalability and practicality of the proposed framework for next‐generation smart grid infrastructures.