Time Synchronization Techniques in the Modern Smart Grid: A Comprehensive Survey

Yu Liu, Biao Sun (), Yuru Wu, Yongxin Zhang, Jiahui Yang, Wen Wang, Naga Lakshmi Thotakura, Qian Liu and Yilu Liu ()
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Yu Liu: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Biao Sun: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Yuru Wu: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Yongxin Zhang: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Jiahui Yang: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Wen Wang: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Naga Lakshmi Thotakura: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Qian Liu: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
Yilu Liu: Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Tickle College of Engineering, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 5, 1-32

Abstract: In modern smart grids, accurate and synchronized time signals are essential for effective monitoring, protection, and control. Various time synchronization methods exist, each tailored to specific application needs. Widely adopted solutions, such as GPS, however, are vulnerable to challenges such as signal loss and cyber-attacks, underscoring the need for reliable backup or supplementary solutions. This paper examines the timing requirements across different power grid applications and provides a comprehensive review of available time synchronization mechanisms. Through a comparative analysis of timing methods based on accuracy, flexibility, reliability, and security, this study offers insights to guide the selection of optimal solutions for seamless grid integration.

Keywords: smart grid; time synchronization; time source; time distribution; comparison; mechanism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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