Smart grid fibers for quantum communication and sensing

Twin-Field Quantum Key Distribution (TF-QKD) is a promising protocol to extend the secure communication range beyond the limits of conventional QKD, provided that phase noise along the optical channels is tightly controlled. In this work, we experimentally investigate the electro-mechanical phase noise affecting optical fibers in electrical grid environments, as a preliminary step toward deploying TF-QKD over Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) networks that run together with the electricity grids. Measurements were performed in a medium and low voltage smart grid test facility, which offered an accessible and controllable environment that shares some key features with OPGW installations. We analyze phase noise under varying electrical load conditions and infer the corresponding Quantum Bit Error Rate (QBER), providing a first experimental benchmark for future quantum communication over power grid fibers.