The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) has partnered with the Eastern Regional Load Dispatch Centre (ERLDC). Together, they are developing an AI-enabled smart device to manage energy demand in homes. This collaboration aims to optimize household electricity use and reduce energy costs for consumers.
ERLDC, part of Grid India, is one of five Regional Load Dispatch Centres (RLDCs) across the nation. Its primary responsibility is to ensure the reliability of the electricity grid, specifically serving India’s eastern states. This partnership marks a step towards more consumer-focused energy solutions within India’s growing smart grid ecosystem.
AI Device for Smart Energy Management
The project centers on an intelligent home energy management system. It features a real-time Time-of-Use (ToU) tariff-based controller. ToU tariffs vary electricity prices by time of day, typically increasing during peak demand. The device will automatically adjust home energy use in response to these price changes.
By understanding and responding to ToU tariffs, the device empowers consumers. It helps them make smarter energy choices without constant manual oversight. This system is designed to seamlessly integrate into daily life, making energy efficiency more accessible and effective for households.
Automated Control and Grid Benefits
The prototype device will consist of smart plugs, various sensors, and a microcontroller. It will collect real-time data from several sources. These inputs include current ToU pricing signals, local weather conditions, household occupancy patterns, and historical user behavior.
Using advanced machine learning algorithms, the system will process this data. It will then automatically control connected electrical loads. For example, it could adjust when high-energy appliances like water heaters or air conditioners operate. This automatic adjustment improves what is called “demand flexibility.”
Demand flexibility enables the electricity grid to balance supply and demand more effectively. By shifting consumption away from peak hours, the device enhances grid stability. This action helps prevent overloads, reducing the need for costly additional power generation during critical periods. The outcome is a more robust and efficient national power infrastructure.
The project prioritizes data security and consumer privacy. Robust wireless network protection and encryption mechanisms are integrated into the device. These measures secure data exchanges between the device and its controllers. A user dashboard will also provide consumers with real-time visual data on their energy use and savings.
Leadership and Future Vision
Professor Ankit Singhal, from IIT Delhi’s Department of Electrical Engineering, is leading this interdisciplinary project. His team includes researchers Abhijit Abhyankar, Aanandrup Das, and Tarun Mangla.
From ERLDC, Manas Das serves as the project manager, with Alok Pratap Singh as the project coordinator from Grid-India. Their contributions ensure that the device meets real-world operational needs for grid reliability.
Preeti Ranjan Panda, IIT Delhi’s Dean of Corporate Relations, stated the partnership “reflects IIT Delhi’s focus on developing innovative solutions that support India’s energy transition. With rising electricity demand and dynamic pricing structures, it is essential to empower consumers with intelligent tools to manage their energy use efficiently.”
This collaboration addresses India’s growing electricity demand and dynamic pricing. By providing intelligent tools, IIT Delhi and ERLDC aim to support efficient energy management for households and enhance the stability of the national grid.