Design and Simulation of LEO Satellite Communication Networks for Reliable Monitoring and Control in Power Systems

A concept for a network of small satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO) is proposed to ensure robust and independent communication capabilities within power systems, even during widespread outages and disruptions to terrestrial communication systems, thereby enhancing system resilience. The paper proposes a methodology for deriving functional requirements, designing and simulating a LEO satellite-based communication system that serves as an exclusive, highly available, and highly secure communication channel for the energy industry. Through expert interviews with system operators, power system services and their communication needs are identified, which can be supported by a satellite system. A customized constellation design, complete with essential hardware components, is proposed and evaluated using a simulation framework that models the power system, LEO satellites, and terrestrial networks. Results confirm the feasibility of the designed LEO satellite constellation and its compliance with the defined communication requirements. The results also identify further research for the effective operation of the LEO satellite constellation for power system communication.