Smart Energy Meter with Load Control and Load Shedding Control
Abstract
In recent years, the growing demand for electricity and the need for efficient energy
management have led to the development of intelligent power monitoring systems. This
project presents a smart energy meter integrated with load control and load shedding control
functionalities. The system is designed to monitor electrical energy consumption in real-time
and provide automatic load disconnection in case of excess usage or during scheduled load
shedding periods. The hardware-based prototype incorporates microcontroller-based
monitoring, relay switching, and communication interfaces to allow remote or automated
control of connected loads. This system helps prevent overloading, ensures better distribution
of electricity during peak hours, and can be a valuable component in smart grid infrastructure.
It aims to promote energy efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and support sustainable
power usage.
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Background
The rapid growth in population and industrialization has significantly increased electricity
consumption worldwide. In many developing regions, power generation struggles to keep
pace with this increasing demand, resulting in frequent power outages and inefficient load
distribution. Traditional energy meters only measure power usage but lack the ability to
control or manage loads based on real-time consumption patterns or utility directives.
Smart energy systems have emerged as a solution to these issues by incorporating automated
monitoring and control capabilities. These systems not only help in tracking energy
consumption but also allow intelligent management of electrical loads to prevent overloading
and support demand-side (Load shedding) control.
1.2 Problem Statement
Conventional energy meters do not support dynamic load management, leading to excessive
energy consumption and system overloading. Moreover, during load shedding periods,
manual disconnection is often inefficient and delayed. There is a need for a system that can
automatically monitor power usage and control the connected loads accordingly, ensuring
optimized energy usage and systematic reduce load shedding.
1.3 Objectives
The main objectives of this project are:
To design and implement a digital energy meter that monitors energy consumption in
real-time.
To integrate load control features that automatically disconnect loads when a preset
consumption limit is reached.
To implement scheduled or automatic load control based on predefined/instant
conditions.
To create a user-friendly system that enhances energy efficiency and supports smart
grid initiatives.
To reduce load shedding.
1.4 Scope of the Project
This project focuses on a hardware-based implementation using microcontrollers, sensors,
relays, and digital communication interfaces. It covers:
Energy measurement using current and voltage sensors.
Microcontroller-based decision logic for load control.
Load shedding management using timing schedules or utility signals.
Basic display or communication system for feedback and control.
1.5 Methodology (Short Overview)
The system will use a current sensor (e.g., CT), voltage divider circuit, and a microcontroller
(such as Arduino) to measure power. Based on programmed logic, the microcontroller will
control the relays to turn ON or OFF the loads. Optional modules may include RTC (Real-
Time Clock) for scheduled operations, and a GSM/Wi-Fi/PLC module for remote monitoring
or control.
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
With the advancement of embedded systems and the growing need for efficient energy
consumption, numerous studies and prototypes have been developed to integrate smart
technologies into conventional energy meters. The integration of microcontrollers, sensors,
and communication modules enables the implementation of systems that can monitor,
control, and optimize energy usage. This chapter reviews key works and concepts related to
smart metering, load control, and preventing load shedding by limiting consumer demand
load according to real time power generation.
2.2 Smart Energy Metering
Smart meters go beyond traditional energy meters by offering two-way communication and
advanced data collection capabilities. According to recent studies, microcontroller-based
smart meters have significantly improved the accuracy and accessibility of power usage data.
These meters can measure parameters like voltage, current, power, and energy in real-time,
and transmit this information to a central system or the user.
Kumar et al. (2019) designed a smart energy meter using Arduino and GSM to send
meter readings via SMS, reducing manual labor.
Singh and Sharma (2020) developed a system to detect tampering and reduce power
theft using sensors and communication modules.
2.3 Load Control Systems
Load control is an essential aspect of energy management, especially in scenarios where
excessive consumption can cause damage or inefficiencies. Intelligent load control systems
automatically disconnect or switch loads based on certain thresholds or priorities.
Ali and Basha (2021) proposed an IoT-based load control system using Wi-Fi, which
allowed real-time switching and monitoring via smartphone.
Bose et al. (2022) implemented a demand-side load management system using relays
and microcontroller logic to prevent overloading in households.
2.4 Load Shedding Mechanisms
Load shedding is a necessary control strategy used by utility companies during peak demand
periods. Automated load shedding control system helps maintain grid stability and prevent
blackouts.
Nair and Thomas (2018) proposed a time-based load shedding system using a PIC
microcontroller and RTC.
Patel et al. (2020) developed a GSM-based load shedding controller that allowed
utility companies to disconnect non-essential loads remotely.
2.5 Role of GSM Communication in Smart Grids
GSM modules are widely used in smart metering applications for their simplicity and
coverage. They allow data transmission over long distances without the need for Wi-Fi or
local network access.
Rao and Sinha (2020) explored the use of GSM technology to enable remote billing
and load disconnection, reducing operational costs and improving service response
time.
The literature reveals that combining microcontroller-based smart meters with
communication modules like GSM and control components like relays can significantly
enhance the capabilities of traditional meters. The integration of scheduled and threshold-
based control systems can help optimize load distribution and improve energy efficiency in
residential and industrial environments.
Chapter 3: System Design
3.1 System Overview
The proposed system is a smart energy meter that not only monitors electrical consumption
but also manages connected loads intelligently. It integrates three core functionalities:
1. Energy Monitoring – Tracks voltage, current, and energy consumed.
2. Load Control – Automatically disconnects load when usage exceeds a set threshold.
3. Load Shedding Control – Disconnects load at scheduled intervals or based on
signals from utility providers.
This system uses an Arduino Uno microcontroller as the processing unit. It receives inputs
from current and voltage sensors, and based on the logic programmed into it, it controls the
relay module to turn ON/OFF loads. The GSM module allows for remote communication or
user alerts, and an LCD shows the real-time consumption.
3.1.1 Flow chart of Smart Energy Meter with Load Control and Load
Shedding Control.
Fig-01:Flow Chart of load control and load shedding control system.
3.2 Block Diagram
It shows the functional components of the system and their interconnections:
Fig-02:Block diagram of load control and load shedding control system.
3.3 Components Used
Component Description
Arduino Uno Acts as the central controller to process input data and control loads.
CT Sensor Measures current flowing through the load.
BUCK Converter DC to DC converter for stable dc output.
Relay Module Switches the load ON/OFF based on conditions.
GSM Module Sends alerts or receives commands remotely.
LCD Display Shows real-time energy consumption.
Power Supply Provides power to the circuit and controller.
3.3.1 Arduino Uno
Arduino UNO is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega328P. It has 14 digital
input/output pins (of which 6 can be used as PWM outputs), 6 analog inputs, a 16 MHz
ceramic resonator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header and a reset button. It
contains everything needed to support the microcontroller; simply connect it to a computer
with a USB cable or power it with a AC-to-DC adapter or battery to get started .
Fig-03:Arduino UNO.
3.3.2 CT Sensor
A current transformer (CT) works on the principle of electromagnetic induction to step down
high currents to a measurable level for metering and protection purposes. It consists of a
primary winding, a secondary winding, and a core, typically made of iron. The primary
winding is connected in series with the high-current circuit, while the secondary winding is
connected to measuring instruments or protective relays.
Fig-04:CT sensor
3.3.3 BUCK Converter
A buck converter or step-down converter is a DC-to-DC converter which decreases voltage,
while increasing current, from its input to its output. It is a class of switched-mode power
supply.
Fig-05:BUCK Converter
3.3.4 Relay Module
A relay module works by using an electromagnet to control a switch, allowing a low-power
signal to control a high-power circuit. When a small control signal is applied to the relay
module, it energizes the electromagnet, which in turn pulls a switch (armature) to either close
or open a circuit. This switching action can be used to control a wide range of devices,
including lights, motors, and other electrical appliances
Fig-06:Relay Module
3.3.5 GSM Module
A GSM module acts as a bridge between a device and the GSM (Global System for Mobile)
network, enabling communication through cellular signals. It essentially translates a device's
data into a format that can be transmitted over the cellular network and vice versa. This
process involves encoding, modulation, and transmission via radio waves, ultimately
allowing for voice calls, SMS messaging, and data transfer.
Fig-07:GSM Module
3.3.6 LCD Display
LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display. This technology uses liquid crystals, which are
substances with properties of both liquids and solids, to create images on a screen. When an
electric current is applied, the liquid crystals align to allow or block light, creating the images
you see on the display.
Fig-08:LCD Display
3.3.7 Power Supply
A power supply converts AC (alternating current) mains electricity into a stable DC (direct
current) voltage, suitable for powering electronic devices. It achieves this by transforming the
input voltage, rectifying it to DC, and then smoothing out any remaining AC ripple.
Fig-09:Power Supply
3.4 Working Principle
The CT sensor measure electrical parameters and feed them into the Arduino.
The Arduino calculates power usage and checks if it exceeds a preset threshold.
If usage is too high, the relay module disconnects the load to prevent overload.
If a load shedding control time is reached, the Arduino also control the consumer
load according to NLDC/Generation .
The GSM module may notify the user (e.g., via SMS) about disconnection events.
The LCD continuously displays the power consumption status.
Chapter 4: Implementation
4.1 Hardware Implementation
The hardware implementation involves assembling all required electronic components based
on the designed block diagram. This prototype is built on a board or PCB and powered with a
regulated 5V/12V supply.
4.1.1 Circuit Connections
CT Sensor (e.g., SCT-013) is connected to an analog input pin (A0) of Arduino
through a burden resistor.
Voltage Divider Circuit is used to step down the voltage and feed it to another
analog pin for voltage sensing.
Relay Module is connected to digital output pins of the Arduino to control the load
(typically connected via pin D12).
GSM Module (e.g., SIM800L) is connected to Arduino via TX and RX pins (D9 and
D10 using SoftwareSerial).
LCD Display (16x2) is connected through I2C or directly via digital pins (A4–A5).
Load (e.g., light bulb or appliance) is connected through the relay's normally open
(NO) contact.
4.1.2 Circuit Diagram
Fig-10:Circuit Diagram of the System.
4.1.3 Assembly
All components are mounted securely on a baseboard. The Arduino is programmed using the
Arduino IDE with customized logic to:
Measure current
Calculate real-time power usage
Check threshold conditions.
Trigger relays accordingly
Display information on LCD
Send notifications using GSM
4.2 Software Implementation
The Arduino is programmed in C/C++ using the Arduino IDE. Key libraries used include:
LiquidCrystal.h or LiquidCrystal_I2C.h for LCD control
SoftwareSerial.h for GSM communication
4.2.1 Functional Code Blocks
Energy Monitoring:
float voltage = analogRead(A1) * scaleFactorV;
float current = analogRead(A0) * scaleFactorI;
float power = voltage * current;
Load Control Logic:
if (power > thresholdPower) {
digitalWrite(relayPin, LOW); // Disconnect load
sendSMS("Load disconnected due to high usage");
} else {
digitalWrite(relayPin, HIGH); // Keep load connected
}
GSM Notification:
void sendSMS(String message) {
[Link]("AT+CMGF=1");
delay(100);
[Link]("AT+CMGS=\"+8801758749550\"");
delay(100);
[Link](message);
[Link](26);
}
4.3 Challenges Faced
Current sensing required calibration for accuracy.
GSM modules are sensitive to power supply noise and voltage levels.
Chapter 5: Results and Discussion
5.1 Experimental Setup
The prototype was tested in a controlled environment using a small-scale load (light bulb)
connected through the relay module. The system was powered via a 12V adapter with a
voltage regulator to provide 5V to the Arduino and peripherals. The load was varied to
observe the system’s behavior during normal and high power consumption conditions.
5.2 Observations
Scenario Result
Normal load (below threshold) Load remained ON; energy usage displayed on LCD
Load exceeded threshold limit Load was disconnected automatically via relay
Load shedding control Load was controlled by utility according to load
allocation by NLDC.
GSM alert triggered SMS sent to predefined number (successfully send)
5.3 Performance Discussion
Energy Monitoring Accuracy: Current readings were within ±5% of reference
multimeter readings after calibration.
Load Control Responsiveness: Relay operated within milliseconds of detecting
threshold violations.
User Notification: The GSM module reliably sent status messages, although
performance depended on network availability.
Chapter 6: Conclusion and Future Work
6.1 Conclusion
This project successfully demonstrates a smart energy meter system integrated with load
control and load shedding features. By using Arduino Uno, current and voltage sensors, a
relay module and GSM communication, the system achieves real-time monitoring, intelligent
load management, and automated control. It reduces the need for manual intervention,
promotes energy efficiency, and has practical value in residential, commercial, and industrial
applications.
The prototype proved reliable in testing, providing accurate readings and timely control
responses. It represents a cost-effective, scalable solution for modern smart grid integration.
6.2 Future Scope
To enhance the system further, the following improvements can be considered:
IoT Integration: Use Wi-Fi (e.g., ESP8266) or cloud platforms to monitor energy
data in real-time via mobile apps or web dashboards.
Load Prioritization: Assign load priority levels so that non-essential devices
disconnect first during load shedding.
Renewable Energy Compatibility: Integrate solar or battery inputs for hybrid energy
systems.
Billing Integration: Implement prepaid energy metering and automatic billing
systems.
Overcurrent and Surge Protection: Add protective circuitry to ensure system safety
during abnormal conditions.