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Application of Internet of Things in Improving Energy Efficiency in Buildings and in Smart Grids
MINTRODUCTION METHODOLOGY
AXIMISING energy efficiency with application of the Internet of things warrants the use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same activity without compromising
quantity and quality. The Internet of Things is a network of physical objects (‘things’) that amass and exchange data with other devices using sensors embedded in them. It involves both software and hardware integration. The application of Internet of Things in buildings and in grids enables monitoring and control of energy flow. The processed and analysed data is made available to the various stakeholders for them to monitor remotely their energy consumption and detect areas and appliances where energy is wasted, hence improving efficiency. Energy efficiency is a critical driver of sustainable development and an effective analysis of the real-time data in the energy supply chain is paramount to achieving optimum energy efficiency.
This paper analyses the application of IoT in the energy space, from energy use in buildings to smart grids. We explore the IoT framework and its enabling technologies as a basis for discussing their role in the energy sector in improving efficiency.
IoT use entails a multi-stage technique for implementation: from putting up sensors, data collection, data storage, data processing and analytics, finally decision making. An accompanying command is sent back to the actuator installed on the system in response to the sensed data. An Energy management app or website can be used to allow users to switch between appliances and automatically control power loads, helping to control energy consumption and related costs. Cloud computing and data analytic platforms, which have data analysis and visualization tools that can be employed for different smart applications in the energy sector, from buildings to smart cities to smart grids.
Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 002
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