Final Project Report
Final Project Report
Project Report
on
“IOT BASED SMART ENERGY METER FOR EFFICIENT ENERGY
UTILIZATION”
ii
CAMBRIDGE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY NORTH CAMPUS
Bangalore-562110
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING
CERTIFICATE
Certified that the students JAHNAVI P, SAHANA R G, VELLA MAMATHA, KAVYA K
bearing the USNs:– 1AJ21EC015, 1AJ21EC035, 1AJ21EC042, 1AJ22EC405 are bonafide
students of Cambridge Institute of Technology-North Campus, and have successfully completed
the project entitled “IOT BASED SMART ENERGY METER FOR EFFICIENT ENERGY
UTILIZATION” in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Bachelor of Engineering in
Electronics and Communication Engineering, Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi,
during the academic year 2024-2025.
It is further certified that all corrections and suggestions indicated for Internal Assessment have
been incorporated into the report deposited in the departmental library. The project report has
been approved as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect of the project work prescribed
for the Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Name Signature
Examiner 1:
Examiner 2:
iii
DECLARATION
We, Jahnavi P, Sahana R G , Vella Mamatha , Kavya K bearing the USNs:– 1AJ21EC015,
1AJ21EC035, 1AJ21EC042, 1AJ22EC405 are students of the VIII semester, Electronics and
Communication Engineering, Cambridge Institute of Technology, hereby declare that the project
entitled “IOT based smart energy meter for efficient energy utilization” has been carried out
by us and submitted in partial fulfillment of the course requirements for the Bachelor of
Engineering in Electronics and Communication Engineering as prescribed by Visvesvaraya
Technological University, Belagavi, during the academic year 2024-2025.
We also declare that, to the best of our knowledge and belief, the work reported here does not
form part of any other report on the basis of which a degree or award was conferred on an earlier
occasion by any other student.
Date:
Place: Bangalore
JAHNAVI P 1AJ21EC015
SAHANA R G 1AJ21EC035
VELLA MAMATHA 1AJ21EC042
KAVYA K 1AJ22EC405
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to place on record my deep sense of gratitude to the Management, Cambridge
Institute of Technology North Campus, India, for providing excellent infrastructure and an
academic environment at CITNC, without which this work would not have been possible.
I also wish to extend my thanks to my Guide Mr. Ravi N, Assistant Professor, Cambridge
Institute of Technology North Campus, for her critical, insightful comments, guidance,
constructive suggestions, and support to improve the quality of this project work.
We would also like to thank Dr. S J Sugumar, Professor, Dept of ECE, Project Coordinator for
the valuable support and guidance in completion of the project.
I would like to thank all the faculty members and non-teaching staff of the Department of
Electronics and Communication Engineering for their constant support. I also extend my
heartfelt gratitude to my parents and friends for their constant moral and financial support.
Name USN
Jahnavi P 1AJ21EC015
Sahana R G 1AJ21EC035
Vella Mamatha 1AJ21EC042
Kavya K
1AJ22EC405
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ABSTRACT
In recent times, the energy calibration methods are universally expanding with the goal of
effectuating, reliably operating, and managing the utility system. The growing demand for power
in the current environment has necessitated the mandatory installation of energy meters, as well
as the development of new methods for calibrating meter readings and governing the effective
use of energy resources. AMR (Automatic Meter Reading system) is one such modernization.
This employs analogue or digital energy meters with the assistance of smart meters. Currently,
energy scaling is done by hand, which is a time-consuming process in the world of day-to-day
networking demand and also requires skilled labor.
The concept of AMR Systems is to overcome complexities in the rapidly growing field of
energy management. This article proposes a smart energy meter based on IoT to detect the
power theft. The proposed model consists of Arduino UNO, ESP8266, AC713 current sensors,
and so on. The AC713 senses current usage with the help of the ESP32, which is then passed to
the IoT platform. Though AMR is a very effective method, it costs the proxy of existing energy
meters by SEM (Smart energy meters), which is highly inefficient. As a result, the proposed
method focuses on detecting the power theft caused by public tampering. The proposed model is
programmed by using a BLYNK software and simulated in PROTEUS software. The proposed
system is then validated by using the simulated results.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENTS Page
Numbers
Front Page i
Certificate ii
Declaration iii
Acknowledgement iv
Abstract v
Table Of Contents vi
List Of Figures vii
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Problem Statement 1
1.2 Objectives 2
1.3 Significance and Motivation 2
1.4 Scope and Limitations 3
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.1 Overview of Relevant Concepts and Technologies 4
2.2 Summary of Related Work and Existing Approaches 5
2.3 Identification of Gaps in the Existing Literature 6
Chapter 3: Methodology
3.1 Block Diagram 8
3.2 System Design and Planning 13
3.3 Selection of Components 13
3.4 Hardware Integration 14
3.5 Software Development 15
3.6 Testing and Calibration 16
3.7 Final System Integration 16
Chapter 4: System Overview
4.1 Flow Chart 17
4.2 Circuit Diagram 19
4.3 Software Implementation 20
Chapter 5: Results and Discussion 22
Chapter 6: Applications, Advantages, Disadvantages 24
vii
Chapter 7: Conclusion 30
References 31
LIST OF FIGURES
1 Block Diagram 8
2 Arduino UNO 9
4 Smart Meter 10
6 I2C Module 11
7 Relay 12
8 LDR Sensor 12
9 Flow Chart 17
10 Circuit Diagram 19
11 Result 23
vii
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IOT based smart energy meter for efficient energy 2024-2025
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
In the era of rapid technological advancements and increasing energy demands, traditional
methods of energy monitoring and calibration are becoming obsolete. Accurate energy
calibration and efficient management of utility systems have become essential to cope with the
growing power consumption. Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems, which utilize analog or
digital meters alongside smart technologies, offer a modern solution to these challenges.
However, manual energy scaling is still widely practiced, posing issues of inefficiency, high
labour dependency, and increased time consumption. AMR aims to eliminate such complexities
by automating the process of energy monitoring and data collection.
To enhance the reliability and security of energy systems, this article proposes an Internet of
Things (IoT)-based smart energy meter designed to detect power theft. The system integrates
components such as Arduino UNO, ESP8266, and AC713 current sensors to monitor energy
usage. The current data is processed and transmitted to an IoT platform via the ESP32 module.
While AMR systems offer numerous benefits, the replacement of existing meters with Smart
Energy Meters (SEMs) is often costly and inefficient. Therefore, the proposed model
emphasizes power theft detection—specifically tampering by the public—rather than full-scale
meter replacement. The system is programmed using BLYNK software, simulated in
PROTEUS, and validated through simulation results.
Traditional methods of energy monitoring and meter calibration are increasingly inadequate in
today’s fast-paced and high-demand power environment. Manual reading of energy meters is not
only time-consuming but also requires skilled labor, leading to inefficiencies and potential
errors. Additionally, the growing number of energy consumers and the complexity of utility
networks have made it difficult to ensure accurate billing and real-time monitoring using
outdated systems.
Another major issue is power theft, often caused by tampering with energy meters, which results
in significant financial losses for utility providers. While Automatic Meter Reading (AMR)
systems and Smart Energy Meters (SEMs) offer improved functionality, replacing existing
meters with these advanced systems can be costly and impractical on a large scale. Therefore,
there is a need for a cost-effective, reliable solution that can detect power theft and support
energy management without requiring complete infrastructure overhauls.
1.2 Objectives
The primary objective of this project is to develop a smart energy meter system using IoT
technology that can accurately monitor energy consumption and detect power theft. By
integrating components like Arduino UNO, ESP8266, and AC713 current sensors, the system
aims to provide real-time tracking of electricity usage. The collected data is sent to an IoT
platform through the ESP32 module, allowing users and utility providers to monitor
consumption remotely and efficiently.
Another key objective is to reduce manual effort and human error associated with traditional
meter reading methods. The system is designed to be cost-effective and easy to implement,
avoiding the need to fully replace existing energy meters. Additionally, it aims to improve the
detection of unauthorized energy usage or tampering, thus helping utility companies minimize
losses and enhance the reliability of power distribution.
The significance of this project lies in its potential to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and
security of energy monitoring systems. With increasing power consumption and the complexity
of energy distribution networks, traditional methods are no longer sufficient. A smart energy
meter based on IoT not only enables real-time monitoring but also supports automated data
collection and analysis. This reduces the need for manual labor, lowers the chances of human
error, and ensures timely detection of irregularities such as power theft, leading to more reliable
and transparent energy management.
The motivation behind this project stems from the growing challenges faced by utility providers
in detecting unauthorized power usage and managing resources efficiently. Power theft is a
persistent issue that results in significant financial losses and affects the stability of the energy
grid. By developing a low-cost, IoT-based system that works with existing infrastructure, this
project aims to offer a practical solution that enhances monitoring capabilities and helps in the
fight against energy theft, while promoting smarter and more sustainable energy use.
Despite its advantages, the proposed system has a few limitations. It is primarily designed for
detecting basic tampering or power theft methods and may not identify more advanced or
complex theft techniques. The system depends on internet connectivity for real-time monitoring,
which can be a drawback in areas with poor or unstable network access. Additionally, it is
currently tested only through simulation and may require further hardware implementation and
field testing to validate its performance under real-world conditions.
CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Overview of the Relevant Concepts and Technologies
This project brings together the concepts of energy monitoring, IoT (Internet of Things), and
automation to create a smart energy meter system capable of real-time data tracking and power
theft detection. The core idea revolves around replacing manual meter readings with an
automated system that provides accurate, continuous monitoring of energy usage. IoT plays a
central role in this setup by enabling remote data access and control through cloud-based
platforms. This not only enhances the efficiency of energy management but also supports timely
detection of unauthorized energy use or tampering.
The system hardware includes essential components like the Arduino UNO, which serves as the
microcontroller responsible for processing sensor inputs and controlling communication
modules. The AC713 current sensor is used to detect and measure the current flow in the
electrical circuit, and its data is fed to the Arduino. For wireless communication, ESP8266 or
ESP32 modules are used to send the data to an IoT platform. These modules provide Wi-Fi
capabilities, enabling the system to transmit real-time energy usage data to a server or user
interface. The choice of these components is guided by their affordability, reliability, and ease of
integration in low-cost smart systems.
On the software side, BLYNK is employed as the IoT platform that allows users to view energy
data via a mobile application. It offers features such as real-time monitoring, alerts, and control
buttons to interact with the system. To validate the system design before physical
implementation. This tool allows developers to simulate the circuit and test various scenarios,
ensuring the system works correctly under different conditions. Together, these technologies
offer a powerful and cost- effective approach to modern energy monitoring and theft detection.
Before the physical implementation, the circuit and system behavior are tested and validated
using PROTEUS simulation software. This software helps in designing, simulating, and
analyzing the performance of electronic circuits virtually. By simulating the smart energy meter
system, developers can identify potential issues and ensure proper functionality without needing
to build the hardware immediately. Together, these technologies create an effective, low-cost,
and scalable solution for real-time energy monitoring and power theft detection.
Over the years, various approaches have been proposed to modernize energy metering systems,
primarily aimed at improving efficiency, accuracy, and reducing energy theft. Traditional energy
meters required manual reading, which was time-consuming and prone to human error. To
address these challenges, Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems were developed. AMR
allows for the automatic collection of consumption data from meters, reducing the need for
manual labor. However, while AMR improves data collection, it still lacks real-time monitoring
and advanced theft detection capabilities.
One of the more advanced systems introduced is the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI),
which offers two-way communication between the meter and the utility provider. AMI systems
support real-time data analysis, demand-side management, and enhanced billing systems.
However, the high cost and complexity of AMI make it less feasible for widespread deployment,
especially in developing regions. These systems also often require complete replacement of
existing infrastructure, which can be financially and logistically burdensome.
Several research projects have explored the use of smart meters integrated with GSM, ZigBee,
and other wireless technologies to transmit consumption data to utility providers. While these
models improve communication and reduce human involvement, they are still limited in terms
of scalability and security. Some systems have attempted to detect theft by comparing expected
usage with actual meter readings, but these often rely on manual verification and can miss
sophisticated tampering methods.
Recent developments have shifted toward IoT-based smart energy meters, which use
microcontrollers and internet-enabled modules to track and report energy consumption in real
time. These systems allow consumers and utility companies to access energy data through web
or mobile applications, improving transparency and user control. Additionally, IoT solutions are
typically more cost-effective and easier to integrate with existing systems compared to full smart
meter rollouts. Many IoT models also include theft detection mechanisms, such as sudden usage
spikes or unauthorized connection detection.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in developing low-cost, reliable, and easy-to-
deploy systems that can detect energy theft and support real-time monitoring. The proposed
project builds upon these existing approaches by using affordable components like Arduino
UNO, ESP8266/ESP32, and AC713 sensors, paired with the BLYNK platform for visualization
and the PROTEUS software for simulation. This model aims to provide an efficient, scalable
solution for energy monitoring and theft detection without requiring full infrastructure
replacement, making it more practical for real-world applications.
Despite the extensive research and development in energy metering systems, a number of
limitations still exist in the current literature. One major gap is the lack of real-time monitoring
in many traditional and semi-automated systems. Although AMR (Automatic Meter Reading)
has automated the process of meter reading to some extent, it often collects data at set intervals
rather than continuously. This delay limits the ability of utility providers to respond quickly to
abnormal consumption patterns or detect power theft promptly. Real-time monitoring, which is
now feasible with IoT technologies, remains underexplored in many studies.
Another significant gap is the high cost and complexity of fully replacing existing energy meters
with smart meters. Most advanced systems proposed in the literature involve complete meter
replacement with expensive smart metering infrastructure. This approach is not feasible for
many countries, particularly in rural or economically constrained areas. Few studies have
focused on integrating smart features with existing analog or digital meters, which could offer a
more cost- effective solution for large-scale implementation.
In addition, limited attention has been given to power theft detection, especially in the context of
IoT-based systems. While many papers highlight the benefits of automation and smart metering,
fewer focus on identifying and addressing energy theft, which remains a major issue in many
regions. Most of the current methods for theft detection rely on post-factum analysis or manual
inspections. There is a need for smart systems that can automatically detect unusual
consumption behavior or tampering attempts in real time.
The integration of affordable and widely available hardware components is also not thoroughly
explored in existing work. Many projects depend on proprietary or costly hardware, which limits
scalability and implementation in real-world scenarios. Research involving cost-effective
components like Arduino UNO, ESP8266/ESP32 modules, and basic current sensors such as
AC713 is relatively limited, despite their potential for building practical, low-budget solutions.
Another gap lies in the lack of simulation and testing environments in many studies. A large
number of projects jump directly to hardware implementation without thoroughly simulating and
validating their systems. This can lead to design flaws or missed optimization opportunities.
Utilizing simulation tools like PROTEUS for circuit testing and behavior analysis is an area that
has not been deeply integrated into the development cycle in much of the literature.
Lastly, user-friendly software platforms for visualization and interaction are often overlooked.
While some studies propose web dashboards or basic interfaces, few focus on using intuitive
mobile platforms like BLYNK, which allow both users and utility providers to monitor energy
data conveniently. The ease of use and accessibility of such platforms can greatly influence the
adoption and effectiveness of smart energy systems. Addressing this gap would make smart
energy solutions more practical and accessible for everyday users.
CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
This project’s method is to build a smart energy meter using an Arduino to read the electric
current with a sensor. The data is sent wirelessly through a Wi-Fi module to an app where users
can see their energy use live. Before building the actual device, the whole system is tested using
a simulation program to make sure it works well. The app is created using BLYNK software so
it’s easy to check the electricity usage and detect if someone is stealing power.
This block diagram shows how the smart energy meter system works. The AC power goes
through a relay to the energy meter, which measures the electricity used. The LDR (Light
Dependent Resistor) checks if someone tries to tamper with the meter, and sends this
information to the Arduino UNO. The Arduino controls the system using power from a DC
supply and sends data to different parts like a red LED for alerts, an LCD display to show usage,
and a Wi-Fi module to upload the data to the cloud for remote monitoring. This setup helps track
energy use and detect theft in real time.
The smart energy meter needs power to run its small computer (microcontroller) and
communication parts (like Wi-Fi).
It usually gets power from your home’s electricity (AC mains), which is very high voltage
(like 230V). Inside the meter, this high voltage is changed into a small safe voltage (like 5
volts DC) that the electronics can use.
This is done using a small circuit called a power supply unit which:
Lowers the voltage.
The Arduino IDE is a cross-platform application (for Windows, macOS, Linux) that is written in
the programming language Java.
The Arduino IDE supports the language C and C++ using special rules of code structuring.
• The main benefit of using this module is inexpensive simply programable, animation and
there is no limitation for displaying custom character etc.
• These modules are currently supplied with a default I2C address of either 0x27 or 0x3F.
• To determine which version you have check the black I2C adaptor board on the underside of
the module.
.
DEPARTMENT OF ECE – CITNC Page 11
IOT based smart energy meter for efficient energy 2024-2025
• LDR detects light blinks from the LED on a traditional energy meter (each blink represents a
unit of energy used).
• Microcontroller counts the blinks by monitoring changes in the LDR’s resistance when the
LED flashes.
• Energy usage is calculated from the blink count and can be displayed or sent wirelessly for
monitoring.
The system design of the IoT-based smart energy meter involves integrating several key
components to enable accurate energy monitoring and real-time data transmission. The core of
the system is a microcontroller (such as ESP32 or Arduino), which reads data from a current and
voltage sensor (like the SCT-013 or INA219). The measured energy data is processed by the
microcontroller and transmitted to a cloud server or mobile app using a wireless communication
module such as Wi-Fi, GSM, or LoRa. The device is powered using a stable AC to DC power
supply, which converts the mains electricity to a safe 5V or 3.3V DC required by the electronics.
A display unit, such as an LCD or OLED, may also be included to show live energy usage.
Planning this system requires selecting reliable components, designing a compact and insulated
circuit layout, and ensuring safety features like over-voltage protection and electrical isolation.
The software side involves writing firmware for the microcontroller to read sensor data,
calculate energy usage, and send the data to the cloud in regular intervals. The project timeline
includes phases such as requirements gathering, component selection, circuit design, PCB
prototyping, firmware development, and testing. Proper documentation and modular design
ensure that the system is easy to maintain, scale, and upgrade in the future.
Microcontroller (MCU):
ESP32 – Chosen for its built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, low power consumption, and sufficient I/O
pins.
Power Supply Module:
HLK-PM03 (3.3V) or HLK-PM05 (5V) – Compact AC-DC buck converter to step down
230V AC mains to low DC voltage.
Capacitors, Diodes, and Voltage Regulators – For filtering, protection, and stable power
delivery.
Communication Module:
Optionally, LoRa (RA-02) or SIM800L (GSM) module for long-range or mobile data
communication.
Display Module:
0.96" OLED Display – To show real-time energy usage data locally.
Other Components:
o Resistors, Capacitors, Optocouplers – For signal conditioning and electrical isolation.
o PCB or Breadboard – For assembling the circuit.
o Connectors, Terminal Blocks, and Enclosure – For safe and organized physical setup.
o Arduino UNO:
o Acts as the central controller of the system.
o Receives input signals from sensors and controls outputs like LED, LCD, and Wi-Fi module.
o LDR (Light Dependent Resistor):
o Detects light pulses from the energy meter to help monitor tampering or abnormal usage.
o Sends signals to the Arduino if any unusual behaviour is noticed.
o Relay:
o Controls the AC power supply to the energy meter.
o Can be triggered by the Arduino to cut off power in case of theft detection.
o Wi-Fi Module (ESP8266/ESP32):
o Enables wireless communication between the Arduino and the BLYNK IoT cloud platform.
o Sends real-time energy usage data to the cloud for remote access.
o LCD Display:
o Displays real-time energy usage and system status locally.
o Red LED:
o Indicates an alert, such as power theft or tampering.
o DC Power Supply:
o Provides the necessary power to the Arduino and other connected components.
o System Integration:
o All components are connected to the Arduino and work together to monitor, display, and
send energy data.
o Hardware is tested for proper functioning before final deployment.
Arduino Programming:
o Code is written using the Arduino IDE.
o The Arduino reads data from the AC713 current sensor and LDR (for tampering detection).
o It processes energy usage and checks for abnormal behaviour like power theft.
o It controls outputs like the red LED (for alerts) and the LCD display (to show usage info).
Wi-Fi Communication:
o The ESP8266 or ESP32 Wi-Fi module is programmed to send data to the internet.
o It connects the Arduino to the BLYNK platform using Wi-Fi.
System Integration:
o All software components work together to monitor, display, and alert users in real-time.
This ensures an easy-to-use, smart energy monitoring system with theft detection
features
Verify Data Transmission – Make sure the meter can send energy readings correctly via IoT
(Wi-Fi, GSM, SMS).
Calibrate with Reference Meter – Compare meter readings with a standard energy meter under
different loads and adjust settings to reduce errors.
Repeat Tests for Accuracy – Perform multiple tests to confirm consistent and accurate
measurements after calibration.
Document Results and Monitor – Record all test results, calibration details, and monitor the
meter regularly for any changes or errors.
Install Software and Firmware: Upload the final version of the firmware and any supporting
software needed for the meter to work.
Test End-to-End Functionality: Check that the entire system works together smoothly — from
sensing energy usage to sending data via IoT and displaying readings.
Connect to Cloud or Mobile App: Link the meter with the cloud server or mobile app for real-
time monitoring and alerts.
Perform Final Validation: Run full system tests to ensure accuracy, reliability, and stability
before deployment.
CHAPTER 4
SYSTEM OVERVIEW
monitoring.
6. Send Data to IoT Platform: Transmit the measured and calculated data to an IoT platform
using communication technologies like Wi-Fi, GSM, or SMS.
7. Receive Acknowledgment from Server: Confirm that the data has been received by the IoT
server.
8. Store Data for Logging: Save the collected data for future reference and analysis.
9. Check for Alerts or Thresholds: Evaluate if any measured values exceed predefined
thresholds that require attention.
o If no, send an alert via SMS or app notification if needed.
o If yes, proceed to the next step.
10. Repeat Measurement Cycle: Continue the measurement cycle to monitor energy
consumption continuously.
The IoT-based smart energy meter starts by measuring the electrical energy consumption using its
built-in sensors. This data is collected periodically and processed by the meter’s microcontroller
to calculate important parameters like voltage, current, and total energy consumed. Once
processed, the data is transmitted wirelessly through communication technologies such as Wi-Fi,
Zigbee, or GSM to a central server or cloud platform. The server receives this data from multiple
meters and securely stores it in a database. Advanced analytics are then applied to monitor
consumption patterns, detect anomalies, and generate billing information. Users can access their
real-time energy usage and billing details through a mobile app or web portal. Additionally, the
system can send alerts for unusual consumption or faults. In some cases, remote control features
allow utility providers or users to manage power supply remotely, enhancing energy
management and efficiency.
A Smart Energy Meter is a mechanistic device that accounts briefing such as electricity burning
up, level of voltage, current and power. Smart energy meters pass on the data to the end-user for
a greater exactness of their utilization behavior and electricity retailers for governing and
managing customer billing. Arduino is inclusive in this meter with a WI-FI module for IoT
connection. As we have executed our project in simulation format using proteus platform, we
have used a Blynk server and Blynk app in the place of SMS services for intimation of energy
consumed by a particular habitation. The components used to implement this project are
Arduino, Current sensor, LCD Display and Relay. The Current transformer reduces or multiplies
an alternating current. There is proportionality of current produced in primary to the current in
secondary.
The software implementation of an IoT-based smart energy meter begins with programming a
microcontroller such as the ESP32. The microcontroller reads real-time data from connected
current and voltage sensors. It then calculates important electrical parameters like power and
energy consumption. This data is processed locally and prepared for transmission to a remote
server.
To enable remote monitoring, the microcontroller connects to the internet using Wi-Fi. It uses
communication protocols like MQTT or HTTP to send the energy data securely to a cloud-based
platform. This data is stored on the server where it can be analysed, visualized, and accessed
anytime by users through web or mobile applications.
The front-end application displays energy usage statistics, billing information, and system alerts
in real-time. Users can monitor consumption trends, receive notifications for high usage, and
make informed decisions about their electricity usage. The entire system undergoes testing to
ensure accurate monitoring, stable connectivity, and reliable performance for long-term use.
CHAPTER 5
In terms of stability and responsiveness, the system performed well over extended periods of
testing. The ESP32 handled multiple functions—data reading, display, and cloud
communication—without system crashes or lag. Even when subjected to rapid changes in
electrical load, the system adapted quickly and updated the readings accurately. This robustness
indicates that the system can be deployed in real-world applications for long-term monitoring.
However, some limitations were identified during testing. Sensor accuracy may vary slightly
depending on temperature and external noise, which can affect precise readings. In addition, the
system depends on continuous Wi-Fi connectivity to upload data to the cloud. In areas with poor
internet access, data transmission could be delayed or interrupted. Future improvements could
include adding data logging via an SD card and integrating GSM or LoRa modules for more
reliable remote communication.
Overall, the project successfully demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of using IoT for
smart energy monitoring. It provided a cost-effective solution for real-time tracking and analysis
of electricity usage. The system can be scaled for residential, commercial, or industrial
environments and further enhanced with automation features such as smart billing or device
control. This project offers a practical foundation for developing more advanced energy
management systems in the future.
CHAPTER 6
6.1 APPLICATIONS
In homes, IoT-based smart energy meters enable residents to monitor and control their electricity
usage in real-time. By providing detailed consumption data, these meters help homeowners
identify energy-hungry appliances, optimize usage during off-peak hours, and reduce monthly
bills. Integration with smart home systems also allows for automated energy-saving actions,
making residential energy management more efficient and user-friendly.
For commercial buildings, IoT smart meters facilitate energy auditing and detailed consumption
tracking across different departments or equipment. This data helps facility managers identify
inefficiencies, optimize HVAC and lighting systems, and implement demand response strategies.
The result is reduced operational costs and improved sustainability practices without
compromising business activities.
In industrial settings, IoT smart energy meters play a crucial role in monitoring energy
consumption of heavy machinery and production lines. Real-time data allows industries to
schedule energy-intensive operations during cheaper off-peak periods, detect faults early, and
improve energy efficiency. This not only reduces production costs but also supports compliance
with energy regulations.
Smart energy meters are vital components of smart grids, enabling two-way communication
between consumers and utilities. They help grid operators monitor load in real-time, balance
demand and supply, and quickly respond to outages or faults.
IoT-based smart meters enable prepaid electricity services where consumers can buy energy
credits in advance and monitor their balance remotely. This application benefits utilities by
improving cash flow and reducing billing disputes while helping consumers avoid bill shocks.
The system automatically alerts users when credits run low, ensuring uninterrupted power
supply.
IoT smart meters continuously analyze consumption patterns and detect anomalies that may
indicate tampering or unauthorized usage. This application is essential for utilities in reducing
non-technical losses caused by energy theft. Real-time alerts enable swift action to investigate
and resolve issues, protecting revenue and ensuring fairness in energy distribution.
Utilities use IoT smart meters to implement demand response programs where consumers are
incentivized to reduce or shift their electricity use during peak demand periods. Smart meters
provide the necessary real-time data and communication to automate load adjustments or offer
dynamic pricing, enhancing grid stability and lowering overall energy costs.
IoT smart meters assist in managing distributed renewable energy sources like rooftop solar
panels by measuring energy fed into and drawn from the grid. This enables net metering and
accurate billing, supporting consumers who generate their own electricity. The data also helps
utilities forecast renewable generation and balance supply accordingly.
6.2 ADVANTAGES
Environmental Benefits
By enabling precise energy monitoring and efficient consumption, IoT smart meters contribute
to reducing overall energy wastage and carbon footprint. Consumers become more aware of their
energy habits and are incentivized to conserve electricity, which supports sustainable energy use
and aligns with environmental conservation goals.
6.3 DISADVANTAGES
Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities
Because IoT smart meters are connected devices, they are susceptible to cyberattacks such as
hacking, data breaches, or denial-of-service attacks. A compromised meter could lead to
manipulation of billing data, disruption of power supply, or infiltration of the utility network,
highlighting the need for strong encryption and security protocols.
Compatibility Issues
Integrating IoT smart meters with existing legacy systems and diverse utility infrastructure can
be complicated. Compatibility issues may arise between different communication protocols,
software platforms, and hardware vendors, necessitating additional investments in system
upgrades or middleware solutions.
CHAPTER 7
CONCLUSION
The IoT-based Smart Energy Meter introduces a transformative approach to energy consumption
and management. Traditional energy meters often lack real-time capabilities and require manual
intervention for meter reading and billing. In contrast, the integration of IoT technology enables
continuous monitoring, automated data collection, and wireless transmission of energy usage
information. This not only reduces human error and operational costs but also provides
consumers with instant access to their consumption data through mobile apps or web portals.
One of the key advantages of this system is its ability to promote energy efficiency. With real-
time feedback, users can identify high-consumption patterns and take immediate action to reduce
wastage. Additionally, the automated billing system eliminates estimation-based charges,
ensuring fairness and transparency. For utility providers, the smart meter facilitates demand
forecasting, grid load balancing, and proactive maintenance, ultimately improving overall
service reliability and customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, the IoT-based Smart Energy Meter is a forward-looking solution that aligns with
the global shift toward smart infrastructure and sustainable living. By bridging the gap between
users and their energy usage data, it fosters more responsible consumption and supports broader
environmental goals. As smart grid technologies evolve, such systems will become increasingly
essential in building resilient, data-driven energy networks for the future.
REFERENCES
1. O.Homa Kesav and B. Abdul Rahim, ”Automated Wireless Meter Reading System for
Monitoring and Controlling Power Consumption” International Journal of Recent
Technology and Engineering Volume-1, Issue- 2, June 2012.
2. G. L. Prashanthi and K. V. Prasad, “Wireless power meter monitoring with power theft
detection and intimation system using GSM and Zigbee networks” Journal of Electronics
and Communication Engineering Volume 9,Issue 6, Ver. I (Nov - Dec. 2014).
3. Ashna.k and Sudhish N George,”GSM Based Automatic Energy Meter Reading System with
Instant Billing” This project was supported and financed by National Institute of
Technology, Calicut, IEEE 2013.
4. Champ Prapasawad, Kittitach pornprasitpol, Wanchalermpora, “Development of an
automatic meter reading system based on Zigbee pro smart energy
profileIEEE802.15.4standard”, EDSSC,
5. Najmus Saqib malik, Friedrich kupzog, Michael Sonntag, “An approach to secure mobile
agents in automatic meter reading”, IEEE International Conference on Cyber worlds,
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6. Win Hlaing, Somchai Thepphaeng, Varunyou Nontaboot , Natthanan Tangsunantham,
Tanayoot Sangsuwan, “Implementation of WiFi-Based Single Phase Smart Meter for
Internet of Things (IoT)”, 5th International Electrical Engineering Congress, March 2011
7. “All India Electricity Statistics”, Central Electricity Authority, Ministry of Power,
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8. Al-Turjman and M. Abujubbeh, "IoT-enabled smart grid via SM: An overview", Future
Generation Computer Systems, vol. 96, pp. 579-590, 2019.
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