Smart meter for renewable energy microgrid island

Abstract

This study chronicles the design and construction of a cost-effective smart meter for a student project. A traditional power grid sends power to the user, with no feedback and minimal measurement. The power provider either needs to check all the meters physically, or take rough estimates of usage. This can be inaccurate as well as draining on human resources. A Smart Meter is a technologically advanced meter which records energy usage on site and feeds the information back to the users and energy suppliers. This creates a feedback system that has many benefits; it adds intelligence to the grid and aims to manage electricity demand in a sustainable and economic manner. In 2007, the Smart Grid became federal law in the United States with the passing of the `Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007'. This paper details a few benefits of a Smart Grid and government's involvement in some countries. It also looks at the Standards required for Smart Grids. The paper then focuses on the different sections of a student designed meter.