IOT In Renewable Energy

By  Salah M. Alajeel 

Energy

Energy is the potential to do work. Energy exists in different forms, kinetic, potential, electrical, etc. In this article, we will focus on electrical energy.

Electrical energy is the energy that is produced from moving electrical charges. The main sources of electrical energy can be categorized into:

1. Non-Renewable Energy Sources
2. Renewable Energy Sources

Non-Renewable Energy Sources

These are the sources of energy that cannot be re-used. They consist majorly of fossil fuels and nuclear energy sources.

These methods of energy production are harmful to the environment. These fuels’ end products can pollute the environment and lead to drastic changes in weather patterns and the destruction of habitats. This has necessitated the search for alternative energy sources, renewable energy sources.

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources are the renewable energy sources, i.e., replenished naturally. These sources use abundant natural resources such as sunlight, tides, wind, geothermal heat, and waves to produce energy.

These energy sources have minimal effects on the environment.

IOT

Due to the growing popularity of renewable energy sources, a lot of research has been done to ensure that the renewable energy sector grows into the main source of energy in the power grids. AS a product of this research, a lot of technology has been developed and integrated into renewable energy.

One of the more recent technology integrations into the renewable energy sector is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT describes the connection of related computing devices, sensors, software, and other technologies. 

An IoT system consists of web-capable smart devices that use embedded systems like sensors, processors, and communication devices to collect data, process it, and send it wherever it is needed.

IOT In Renewable Energy

IOT can be used in renewable energy to perform several functions;

1. Collection of data on energy use in real-time.
2. Real-time monitoring of power grids.
3. Remote assessment and management of assets.
4. Automation of the power grid.
5. Easier control of the manned parts of the grid.
6. Better load management in the power grid.

Advantages Of IOT In Renewable Power Management

1. IoT offers power grid workers’ an easier time managing and monitoring the key functions of the grid. Workers can make data-driven decisions to optimize the grid’s functions.
2. IoT offers real-time data on the happenings of the grid.
3. Data on any changes is transmitted instantly. This helps in disaster prevention and management.
4. Cost efficiency. Based on sensors’ data, the grid can produce precisely the needed amount of power, saving costs by optimizing the production and control of energy.

Disadvantages Of IOT In Renewable Power Management

1. The initial installation of IOT systems and sensors is expensive.
2. IoT systems require experts who are expensive to hire in some cases.
3. The integration of an IOT system into an existing grid system can be a complex affair
4. Data security. Experienced hackers can easily breach data in the system.

The Conclusion

IoT is proving to be a useful technology in renewable energy. Coupled with Ai, these technologies promise to push renewable energy sources ahead of their non-renewable counterparts.