An IoT-based system for monitoring and bidirectional control of renewable energy generation and grid measurement processes for smart homes.
The IoT-based system addresses inefficiencies in renewable energy management by enabling real-time monitoring and control, ensuring grid stability and efficient energy distribution through sensors, actuators, and a central processing unit.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025106812
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-22
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-11-30
AI Technical Summary
Conventional energy management systems lack real-time monitoring and control capabilities for renewable energy sources, leading to inefficiencies and grid instability during maintenance or malfunctions, with limited integration of IoT technologies.
An IoT-based system with sensors and actuators for real-time monitoring and control, a central processing unit with ESP32 microcontroller, and a user application for remote management, enabling dynamic energy distribution and grid feed-in optimization.
Ensures grid stability and efficient energy management by providing real-time monitoring, control, and predictive maintenance, enhancing user engagement and operational efficiency.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
AREA OF INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of IoT-based systems for smart homes, in particular an IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling the generation of renewable energy and grid feed-in in smart homes. More precisely, the invention relates to an IoT-enabled system with multiple sensors and a processing unit that enables energy supply companies to control the power supply in connection with the generation of renewable energy in the event of maintenance work or malfunctions using IoT, and enables operators of renewable energy generation plants to monitor and control grid feed-in. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Integrating renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, into conventional electricity grids presents a significant technical challenge. The intermittent nature of renewable energy generation leads to imbalances between supply and demand that conventional energy management systems, due to their inherent rigidity and lack of real-time adaptability, cannot adequately manage.
[0003] Current renewable energy systems have several technical limitations. During maintenance or in the event of malfunctions, energy suppliers lack effective mechanisms for remotely controlling the power supply from decentralized renewable sources, which compromises the stability and reliability of the electricity grid. Furthermore, operators of renewable energy generation plants have limited insight into and control over their grid feed-in, hindering the optimization of energy generation, consumption patterns, and grid interactions.
[0004] Existing energy management systems typically operate with static configurations and do not offer real-time monitoring. They cannot dynamically adapt to the fluctuating generation of renewable energy, leading to inefficient energy distribution and potential grid instability. Furthermore, the lack of integrated mobile interfaces limits accessibility and user engagement in energy management processes.
[0005] The lack of comprehensive IoT integration in renewable energy systems has created a technological gap between energy generation capacity and management efficiency. Current solutions offer energy utilities neither real-time control mechanisms during critical maintenance phases nor sufficient tools for remote monitoring and control of their energy systems.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an IoT-enabled system that provides real-time monitoring and control capabilities for renewable energy generation and net metering operations, enabling energy utilities to maintain grid stability during maintenance or fault situations, while simultaneously providing REG owners with comprehensive energy management tools accessible via mobile platforms. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] This disclosure relates to an IoT-based system for monitoring and bidirectional control of renewable energy generation and net metering operations in smart homes. The system enables real-time monitoring of energy production and consumption, dynamic control of power distribution, remote management functions for energy suppliers during maintenance or in the event of malfunctions, and comprehensive control of net metering operations for renewable energy generation plant operators via mobile devices.
[0008] The present disclosure aims to provide an IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling renewable energy generation and net metering operations for smart homes. The system comprises: a renewable energy source selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic modules and wind turbines; several IoT-enabled sensors connected to this renewable energy source that monitor the energy production of the renewable energy source, the energy consumption of the smart home, and the bidirectional power flow between the smart home and a power grid; several IoT-enabled actuators that control the power supply and energy distribution based on maintenance requirements or fault detection;A central processing unit with an ESP32 microcontroller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, connected to the IoT-enabled sensors and actuators, performing the following functions: receiving sensor data from the IoT-enabled sensors; controlling the IoT-enabled actuators; analyzing real-time data for pattern and anomaly detection; optimizing energy distribution between the renewable energy source, smart home consumption, and the grid; controlling grid feed-in; initiating corrective actions during maintenance or in the event of malfunctions; an inverter connected to the renewable energy source, converting the energy generated by the renewable energy source for grid feed-in and self-consumption; a bidirectional energy meter connected to the central processing unit, measuring the energy flowing in both directions between the smart home and the grid;and a user application that communicates with the central processing unit via a cloud platform and provides the following functions: providing a user interface for remote monitoring and control of grid feed-in; displaying real-time statistics on energy generation, consumption, and grid interactions; receiving alerts on system status; and enabling users to remotely adjust energy system parameters.
[0009] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide an IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling the generation of renewable energy and grid feed-in in smart homes.
[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is the development of a mechanism by which energy supply companies can use the Internet of Things (IoT) to control the electricity supply from renewable energy generation during maintenance work or disruptions.
[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is the development of a system for owners of renewable energy generation plants that enables the tracking and control of net metering operations.
[0012] However, another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a user application developed via a server to monitor parameters and globally control net metering operations.
[0013] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, the invention is described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawing. It is understood that this drawing merely shows typical embodiments of the invention and is therefore not to be understood as limiting its scope of protection. The invention is described and explained in more detail and with reference to the accompanying drawing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGE
[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which the same symbols represent the same parts, wherein: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of an IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling the generation of renewable energy and grid feed-in in smart homes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the elements in the drawing are simplified and not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. With regard to the construction of the device, one or more components may be represented in the drawing by conventional symbols. The drawing may show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawing with details that are already apparent to those skilled in the art from the description contained herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
[0016] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is made below to the embodiment shown in the drawing, which is described using specific terms. It is understood, however, that this does not limit the scope of protection of the invention. Rather, modifications and further developments of the depicted system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles shown therein, are conceivable, insofar as they would normally occur to a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention.
[0017] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not to be understood as a limitation thereof.
[0018] References to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar phrases in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, phrases such as “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this description may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0019] The terms "includes," "comprehensive," or similar expressions denote non-exclusive inclusion. Thus, a procedure or method containing a list of steps does not only include those steps but may also include further steps not explicitly listed or inherent in the procedure or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." for one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components, without further limitations, does not preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.
[0020] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings generally known to those skilled in the art in the field to which this invention belongs. The systems, methods, and examples described herein serve only for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting.
[0021] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing.
[0022] The functional units described in this specification are referred to as devices. A device may be implemented in programmable hardware such as processors, digital signal processors, central processing units, FPGAs, PALs, PLDs, cloud processing systems, or similar. Devices may also be implemented in software for execution by various processor types. An identified device may contain executable code and, for example, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may be organized as an object, procedure, function, or other construct. However, the executable files of an identified device need not be physically related; they may consist of different instructions stored in different locations that, when logically combined, constitute the device and fulfill its purpose.
[0023] The executable code of a device or module can consist of a single instruction or multiple instructions and can even extend across different code sections, applications, and storage media. Similarly, operational data within the device can be identified and represented, and can exist in any suitable form and be organized in any data structure. The operational data can be captured as a single data record or distributed across various storage media and may exist, at least partially, as electronic signals within a system or network.
[0024] References to “a selected embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “an embodiment” in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Therefore, the phrases “a selected embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, or “in an embodiment” appearing at different points in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[0025] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or properties can be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. The following description contains numerous specific details to enable a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed subject matter can also be realized without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other cases, known structures, materials, or processes are not presented or described in detail so as not to obscure aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
[0026] According to the exemplary embodiments, the disclosed computer programs or modules can be executed in a variety of ways, for example, as an application running in the memory of a device or as a hosted application running on a server and communicating with the device application or browser via various standard protocols such as TCP / IP, HTTP, XML, SOAP, REST, JSON, and other suitable protocols. The disclosed computer programs can be written in programming languages that run either in the device's memory or on a hosted server, such as BASIC, COBOL, C, C++, Java, Pascal, or scripting languages such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, Perl, or other suitable programming languages.
[0027] Some of the described embodiments involve data transmission over a network, such as the transmission of various inputs or files. The network may include, for example, the internet, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., PSTN, ISDN, cellular networks, and xDSL), radio, television, cable, satellite, and / or other transmission or tunneling mechanisms for data. It may include multiple networks or subnetworks, each of which may, for example, have a wired or wireless data path. The network may include a circuit-switched voice network, a packet-switched data network, or another network for transmitting electronic data. For example, it may be based on the Internet Protocol (IP) or Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) and support voice communication using VoIP, Voice over ATM, or similar protocols.In one embodiment, the network comprises a mobile network configured for the exchange of text or SMS messages.
[0028] Examples of networks include Personal Area Networks (PAN), Storage Area Networks (SAN), Home Area Networks (HAN), Campus Area Networks (CAN), Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Enterprise Private Networks (EPN), the Internet, Global Area Networks (GAN), and so on.
[0029] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of an IoT-based system (100) for monitoring and controlling the generation of renewable energy and grid feed-in in smart homes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0030] According to Fig.1 The system (100) comprises: A renewable energy source (102), selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic modules and wind turbines; several IoT-enabled sensors (104) connected to this renewable energy source (102) that monitor the energy production of the renewable energy source, the energy consumption of the smart home, and the bidirectional current flow between the smart home and a power grid; several IoT-enabled actuators (106) that control the power supply and energy distribution based on maintenance requirements or fault detection; a central processing unit (108) with an ESP32 microcontroller (108a) with WLAN and Bluetooth modules, wherein the central processing unit (108) is connected to the IoT-enabled sensors (104) and actuators (106) and performs the following functions: receiving sensor data from the IoT-enabled sensors (104); controlling the IoT-enabled actuators (106);Real-time data is analyzed to identify patterns and detect anomalies. Energy distribution between the renewable energy source, smart home consumption, and the grid is optimized. Grid feed-in is controlled, and corrective actions are initiated in case of maintenance or malfunctions. An inverter (110) is connected to the renewable energy source (102) and converts the energy it generates for grid feed-in and self-consumption. A bidirectional energy meter (112) is connected to the central processing unit (108) and measures the energy flow in both directions between the smart home and the grid. A user application (114) communicates with the central processing unit (108) via a cloud platform (116) and provides the following functions: a user interface for remote monitoring and control of grid feed-in;Display of real-time statistics on energy generation, consumption, and grid interactions; receipt of system status alerts; and remote adjustment of energy system parameters by users.
[0031] In one embodiment, the multitude of IoT-enabled sensors (104) comprises: voltage sensors for monitoring electrical voltage levels; current sensors for monitoring electrical current flow; power sensors for monitoring energy generation and consumption; and environmental sensors for monitoring conditions that affect the generation of renewable energy.
[0032] In one embodiment, the multitude of IoT-enabled actuators (106) comprises: circuit breakers configured to control the switching on and off of the renewable energy generation source; load control devices configured to manage energy consumption within the smart home; and grid interface control devices configured to regulate the energy flow between the smart home and the power grid.
[0033] In one embodiment, the central processing unit (108) further comprises: integrated interface circuits for sensors and actuators configured to enable connections with the multitude of IoT-enabled sensors and actuators; wireless communication functions via the WiFi and Bluetooth modules for data transmission; and real-time data processing functions within the ESP32 microcontroller.
[0034] In one embodiment, the central processing unit (108) is further configured to: execute advanced algorithms for data analysis; predict maintenance needs based on analyzed data patterns; generate actionable insights to improve system efficiency; and maintain network stability through real-time power distribution optimization.
[0035] In one embodiment, the central processing unit (108) is further configured to: implement communication protocols for seamless data transmission between the system components; process bidirectional energy flow data from the bidirectional energy meter (112); and coordinate with the energy company's systems for grid stability management.
[0036] In one embodiment, the system (100) further comprises: a data storage module (118) within the cloud platform (116) configured to store historical data on energy generation, energy consumption and network interaction, wherein the central processing unit (108) is connected to the cloud platform (116) to access historical data stored in the data storage module (118) for trend analysis and predictive maintenance planning.
[0037] In one embodiment, the user application (114) further comprises: a real-time monitoring module for displaying live data on energy generation and consumption; a control module for remote adjustment of system parameters; an alarm notification module for sending alerts regarding maintenance needs, malfunctions or anomalies; and a data visualization module for displaying historical energy consumption patterns and trends.
[0038] In one embodiment, the user application (114) is further configured to: communicate with the central unit via the cloud platform using an internet connection; provide user authentication and security functions for authorized access; generate energy consumption reports and efficiency recommendations; and enable functions for remote configuration of the system and adjustment of parameters.
[0039] In one embodiment, the system (100) is further configured to: enable energy supply companies to remotely control the operation of the power supply during maintenance or fault situations; track net metering activities for owners of renewable energy generation facilities; and provide global monitoring functions via the Android application.
[0040] The present invention addresses the urgent need for intelligent management and control of renewable energy systems integrated into conventional power grids. The system offers a comprehensive IoT-based solution that, through advanced monitoring and control mechanisms, enables the seamless integration of renewable energy sources, smart household energy consumption, and grid operation. The core architecture of the system comprises renewable energy sources, in particular photovoltaic modules and wind turbines, which are monitored and controlled via a network of IoT-enabled sensors and actuators. The sensor network includes voltage, current, power, and environmental sensors that continuously acquire electrical parameters and conditions of the renewable energy generation.The actuator network comprises circuit breakers, load controllers, and grid interface control units, enabling dynamic control of energy flow and system operation. The central element of the system is a processing unit based on an ESP32 microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communication modules. This central processing unit acquires real-time data from the sensor network, executes advanced algorithms for data analysis and pattern recognition, detects anomalies in system operation, and optimizes energy distribution between renewable energy generation, household consumption, and grid interaction. The processing unit implements predictive maintenance functions and responds immediately to faults thanks to local control logic.The system includes a bidirectional energy meter that precisely measures the energy flow between the smart home and the power grid in both directions, enabling accurate net metering calculations and monitoring of grid interaction. An inverter converts the energy generated from renewable sources for grid connection and self-consumption. A user application provides a comprehensive interface for remote monitoring and control. It displays real-time statistics on energy generation, consumption, and grid interactions, sends alerts regarding maintenance needs or system anomalies, and allows for remote adjustment of system parameters. The application includes specialized modules for real-time monitoring, system control, alarm management, and the visualization of historical usage patterns and trends.The system enables energy suppliers to remotely control the power supply during maintenance or in the event of disruptions, thus ensuring grid stability and operational continuity. Operators of renewable energy generation plants benefit from comprehensive monitoring and control of net metering, allowing them to optimize their energy production and consumption. The global monitoring capabilities of the user application improve accessibility and user engagement in renewable energy management.
[0041] In one embodiment, the system integrates several components for comprehensive monitoring and control of renewable energy generation and net metering operations. The system includes IoT-enabled sensors and controllers coupled with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power plants. A central processing unit handles data acquisition, analysis, and processing, while a user application enables interaction with the system. This configuration allows for real-time data acquisition and processing, as well as remote control, thus ensuring efficient energy management and grid stability.
[0042] In one embodiment, the system includes an IoT-enabled control mechanism for the dynamic and real-time management of renewable energy generation. This mechanism continuously monitors energy production and consumption using IoT-based sensors and actuators. It is also configured to detect operational anomalies and initiate corrective actions during maintenance or malfunctions. The data, captured in real time, is processed by the central processing unit, which optimizes energy distribution and ensures grid stability. The IoT-enabled control mechanism thus improves the responsiveness and efficiency of the energy management system, enabling energy providers to maintain a reliable power supply and increase operational efficiency.
[0043] In one embodiment, the system further includes a net metering control system that provides operators of renewable energy generation facilities with comprehensive functions for controlling their respective energy production and consumption. The net metering control system utilizes IoT-based devices to monitor bidirectional power flow, enabling users to track the amount of energy generated, consumed, and fed back into the grid. By providing real-time insights and control capabilities, the net metering control system allows users to manage energy consumption, increase operational efficiency, and reduce costs. Furthermore, the system contributes to grid stability and reliability by maintaining a balance between energy supply and demand.
[0044] In one embodiment, the system also includes a specially developed, user-friendly application for renewable energy plant operators. This allows them to remotely monitor and control grid feed-in. The application is configured to communicate with the IoT-enabled system and provides real-time statistical data on energy generation, consumption, and grid interaction. Furthermore, users can access important information, receive notifications, and make adjustments to their energy systems via their smartphones. The application's intuitive design improves accessibility and user interaction, thereby promoting efficient energy management and the global adoption of renewable energy technologies.
[0045] In one embodiment, the system comprises IoT-enabled sensors, microcontrollers, photovoltaic modules, wind turbines, and inverters. These components collect operational data and convert renewable energy into usable electricity. The system also includes a central processing unit for analyzing the collected data, a user-based application for user interaction, and multiple communication protocols to ensure seamless data transmission. Designed for real-time monitoring, efficient data processing, and remote control of renewable energy generation systems, the system ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency.
[0046] In one embodiment, IoT-enabled sensors and microcontrollers are integrated with renewable energy sources to collect real-time data on energy generation and consumption. The collected data is transmitted to the central processing unit, which performs analyses to optimize energy distribution. The user application is connected to the central system, allowing users to access the collected data in real time and control the energy system.
[0047] In one embodiment, the system further includes a data acquisition and analysis mechanism. IoT-enabled sensors are configured to continuously collect data on energy generation, consumption, and interaction with the power grid. The collected data is transmitted in real time to the central processing unit, where advanced analysis algorithms are executed to identify operational patterns, detect anomalies, and optimize energy distribution. The analysis provides actionable insights that help improve system efficiency, predict maintenance needs, and increase grid stability. Accurate and timely data collection and analysis thus enables informed decision-making and effective management of renewable energy resources.
[0048] In one embodiment, a multi-component, solar-powered electrical system is developed in which sunlight is converted into electrical energy by means of a solar module mounted on the front of the system. The current generated by the solar module is transferred to an inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) from the solar module into alternating current (AC) suitable for operating household appliances. A main meter in the system measures and records the total power consumed. The system also includes two capacitors that serve as energy storage and smoothing elements, respectively, thus ensuring a stable and uninterrupted power supply. It further includes several switches and loads, such as light bulbs, that simulate real-world applications and enable the control and distribution of power to various devices.Additionally, an auxiliary meter is integrated that monitors specific system areas and provides detailed information on energy consumption and system performance. The system architecture demonstrates the integration of renewable energy sources with conventional electrical components to achieve a sustainable and efficient power generation solution.
[0049] To evaluate the performance of the proposed system, it was implemented using Matlab R2023a / Simulink. The smart meter features an intuitive user interface, similar to a smartphone app. Specific nodes of the photovoltaic grid system were equipped with voltage and current sensors to enable real-time analysis. The system includes all necessary controls for dynamically switching between different power sources and components according to the requirements or preferences of energy suppliers or renewable energy plant operators. Error indicators help to quickly identify and resolve problems. The multi-node smart meter was connected to the smart grid via a Wi-Fi network. Connections were also established to a wind turbine and a diesel generator as supplementary power sources.The data from the meter logs were transferred to the ThingsSpeak server running MATLAB.
[0050] The results of the system implementation demonstrated the performance of a solar power system in a smart home environment. Values such as the voltage and current of the solar module, its output power, and the battery charge level were recorded over time. The data showed fluctuations in these measurements, particularly between 10:00 PM and 10:10 PM. During this period, a significant voltage drop in the solar module was followed by an increase in current and output power. These anomalies were attributed to sudden weather changes or load fluctuations in the household. Aside from these anomalies, the overall system performance proved to be relatively stable, demonstrating the system's reliability for energy management in the smart home. Further results presented the combined output of wind and solar power systems. Parameters such as wind speed, wind power, voltage, solar current, and total power were recorded.A significant increase in wind speed and corresponding wind power indicated periods of heightened wind activity, which made a significant contribution to the energy mix. Simultaneously, solar power showed a gradual decline throughout the day, corresponding to the decreasing solar irradiance. The combined monitoring of environmental influences in the smart home context highlighted the advantages of using solar and wind energy to maximize efficiency and sustainability. The results of the solar panel monitoring revealed important dynamics of solar energy generation and its integration into smart homes. In particular, the voltage and current fluctuations observed between 10:00 PM and 10:10 PM underscored the sensitivity of solar panels to rapidly changing weather conditions and sudden load peaks.Such anomalies pointed to factors like cloud cover or abrupt demand peaks that temporarily reduced efficiency. Despite these interruptions, the system demonstrated overall robust performance, thus proving the reliability of IoT-enabled monitoring systems for more predictable solar energy generation.
[0051] The data collected over several weeks provided further performance indicators such as maximum daily demand, average load, and capacity utilization. Maximum daily demand showed a sawtooth-shaped increase, indicating an unusual surge in consumption during this period. Average daily load followed a similar pattern, also showing an increase over the same timeframe. Capacity utilization fluctuated due to variations in both demand and average load. Analyzing capacity utilization and the power-to-energy ratio over consecutive weeks revealed different load patterns with discrepancies between the two values. Comparing average load, maximum demand, and capacity utilization showed a clear correlation: higher average loads correlated with higher maximum demands and corresponding fluctuations in capacity utilization.The system's power-to-energy ratio with the IoT-enabled grid-tie inverter was further determined. The average power-to-energy ratio measured over several weeks was approximately 80 W. Compared to a conventional dataset, the use of the IoT-enabled grid-tie inverter resulted in a significant improvement in the power-to-energy ratio. Continuous real-time monitoring and analysis of these operating parameters enabled timely adjustments, thus ensuring a stable power supply during temporary disruptions. The integration of wind and solar energy confirmed the system's effectiveness in a smart home environment. Significant peak values in wind speed and power demonstrated the suitability of wind energy as a supplementary energy source, particularly during periods of low solar irradiance. As solar power generation decreased throughout the day with diminishing solar irradiance, wind energy enhanced system stability.The hybrid system thus improved overall efficiency, reduced dependence on conventional power grids, and ensured greater energy independence while simultaneously mitigating the fluctuations associated with renewable energy sources. The system results also highlighted the influence of weather conditions on solar power generation. On sunny days, maximum output was reached at midday, while rainy and winter days resulted in lower generation. These fluctuations underscored the importance of real-time monitoring and energy consumption optimization through net metering systems. Excess energy from solar and wind sources was fed into the grid, contributing to grid stability and generating financial benefits through feed-in credits. Thanks to continuous data collection and analysis, homeowners were able to make effective and sustainable decisions regarding their energy consumption.
[0052] The drawing and the preceding description illustrate embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another. For example, the process flows described here can be modified and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be performed in the sequence shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be carried out. Actions that do not depend on other actions can be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of protection of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly stated in the description or not, such as...Differences in structure, dimensions, and materials are possible. The scope of protection of the embodiments is at least as comprehensive as described by the following claims.
[0053] The advantages, other benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and any components that can effect or enhance an advantage, benefit, or solution are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of the claims. REFERENCES 100 An IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling the generation of renewable energies and net metering operation for smart homes. 102 Renewable energy source 104 A variety of IoT-enabled sensors 106 A variety of IoT-enabled actuators 108 Central unit 108a ESP32 Microcontroller 110 inverters 112 Bidirectional energy meter 114 User application 116 Cloud platform 118 Data storage module
Claims
[1] An IoT-based system for monitoring and controlling renewable energy generation and net metering operation for smart homes, consisting of: a renewable energy source, selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic systems and wind power plants; a large number of IoT-enabled sensors that are operationally connected to the aforementioned renewable energy generation source and are configured to monitor the energy production from the renewable energy generation source, the energy consumption of the smart home, and the bidirectional power flow between the smart home and a power grid; a variety of IoT-enabled actuators configured to control the operation of the power supply and energy distribution based on maintenance requirements or fault detection; A central processing unit, consisting of an ESP32 microcontroller with WiFi and Bluetooth modules, is connected to a variety of IoT-enabled sensors and actuators and is configured to: receive sensor data from the variety of IoT-enabled sensors; control the variety of IoT-enabled actuators; analyze the real-time data to recognize patterns and detect anomalies; optimize energy distribution between the renewable energy generation source, smart home consumption, and the power grid; control net metering operation; and initiate corrective actions in case of maintenance or fault conditions. an inverter connected to the renewable energy source, configured to convert the energy generated by the renewable energy source for grid connection and self-consumption; a bidirectional energy meter connected to the central processing unit and configured to measure the energy flow in both directions between the smart home and the power grid; and A user application that communicates with the central processing unit via a cloud platform and is configured to: provide a user interface for remote monitoring and control of net metering operations; display real-time statistics on energy generation, consumption, and network interactions; receive alerts about system status; and allow users to adjust energy system parameters remotely. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of IoT-enabled sensors comprises: voltage sensors for monitoring electrical voltage levels; current sensors for monitoring electrical current flow; power sensors for monitoring energy generation and consumption; and environmental sensors for monitoring conditions that affect the generation of renewable energy. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of IoT-enabled actuators comprises: circuit breakers for controlling the switching on and off of the renewable energy generation source; load control devices for managing energy consumption in the smart home; and grid interface control devices for regulating the energy flow between the smart home and the power grid. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the central processing unit further comprises: integrated interface circuits for sensors and actuators configured to enable connections with the multitude of IoT-enabled sensors and actuators; wireless communication functions via the WiFi and Bluetooth modules for data transmission; and real-time data processing functions within the ESP32 microcontroller. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the central processing unit is further configured to: execute advanced algorithms for data analysis; predict maintenance needs based on analyzed data patterns; generate actionable insights to improve system efficiency; and maintain grid stability through real-time energy distribution optimization. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the central processing unit is further configured to: implement communication protocols for seamless data transmission between the system components; process bidirectional energy flow data from the bidirectional energy meter; and coordinate with the energy supply company's systems for grid stability management. [7] System according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises: a data storage module within the cloud platform configured to store historical data on energy generation, energy consumption and network interaction, wherein the central processing unit is connected to the cloud platform to access historical data stored in the data storage module for trend analysis and predictive maintenance planning. [8] System according to claim 1, wherein the user application further comprises: a real-time monitoring module for displaying live data on energy generation and consumption; a control module for remote adjustment of system parameters; an alarm notification module for sending warnings regarding maintenance requirements, malfunctions or anomalies; and a data visualization module for displaying historical energy consumption patterns and trends. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the user application is further configured to: communicate with the central unit via the cloud platform using an internet connection; provide user authentication and security functions for authorized access; generate energy consumption reports and efficiency recommendations; and enable functions for remote configuration of the system and adjustment of parameters. [10] System according to claim 1, wherein the system is further configured to enable energy supply companies to remotely control the operation of the power supply during maintenance or fault cases; to track net metering activities for owners of renewable energy generation plants; and to provide global monitoring functions via the Android application.