Design and Implementation of a Cloud Based Energy Monitoring and Control System for Demand Response

Abstract

In recent times energy policies have focused on migration to a low carbon economy to curb the adverse effects of greenhouse
gases. This has favoured the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy which are increasingly being
installed in large capacities. The intermittent and seasonal nature of renewable energy sources however presents a situation
which requires a modification in the way the electricity grid is controlled. This has given rise to novel research in demand response; a component of the smart grid which leverages modern information and communication infrastructure available to
implement a power grid where the consumer plays a more active role than in the conventional grid. This paper draws inspiration
from this novel concept to present the design and implementation of a cloud-based energy monitoring and control system for
demand response in which energy consumption can be monitored and controlled remotely via the internet.