Design Concept of Thermal Behavior Condition Monitoring of Distributed Energy Resources Network System with ZigBee and GSM Technology in Remote and Rural Areas

Abstract

This paper is presented as a proposal to improve distributed energy resources (DERs) network condition performance through system state data monitoring and prompting. Monitoring thermal behavior of DERs network is to explore the dualism between heat effect and Electrical power flow phenomena. This is crucial to determine the dynamic rating of the system’s ability to perform according to the designed current carrying capacity. It will minimize constraints development due to thermal effect in distribution networks. System operators are been informed of adverse thermal behavior through ZigBee and GSM configured technology. LM35 temperature sensors are employed to sense the temperatures of distribution cables, thermal condition of storage facilities, protection control devices and that of Solar PV irradiation and Wind turbine. The outputs are then fed into the input of ATMEGA328P microcontroller for further processing, coordinating and then transmitted through ZigBee and GSM platform to be displayed on LCD screen under normal condition. Where there is an anticipation of abnormal condition, the sensor communicates with the microcontroller to trigger an alarm of the impending condition. This sends GSM activation SMS text to the remote monitor to alert operators. NI Multisim software is used for development of the Electrical circuit. The proposed design concept will remotely monitor thermal conditions as predictive system tool for DERs network application to mitigate power flow losses.