Microcontroller based Bidirectional Energy Metering for Domestic User

Abstract

The present energy scenario is greatly alarming the energy consumers to conserve as fossil
fuels are going to deplete shortly. In this regard the renewable energy systems are really
gaining momentum. Solar and wind roof top fittings are becoming popular choice for the
domestic user based on their financial affordability. Solar panels generate energy to power a
building’s electrical systems. In most cases, builders acknowledge that the solar panels
installed on the roof will not always be sufficient for the building’s electrical needs, so the
building is also connected to the main utility grid. However, sometimes during clear days the
solar panels generate surplus power beyond the needs of the building. At these times, the
surplus power is exported into the main utility grid. Most utility companies offer credits to
buildings that export power in this manner. “Bi-directional Meter” means a consumer meter
for measuring, indicating and recording quanta of electricity flowing in opposite directions
(export to the licensee’s distribution system and import by the consumer from distribution
system) in Kwh including any other quantity as per the requirement. Net metering /
bidirectional metering record both import and export energy values giving prime focus on
utilizing self produced electricity by renewable energy sources and excess or surplus to be
sold to utilities or grid. It results into reduction of electricity bills. Solar photovoltaic system
is used significantly in net metering. The design of microcontroller based bidirectional
energy meter is low cost, affordable to consumer for domestic application and efficient. The
current work focusses on the development of one of the type of bidirectional metering which
accounts the net usage, export and the monetory exchange. The intelligent controller makes
use of the measuring setup and controls all the major activities of the proposed work.