Web application for power grid fault management

Abstract

Smart power grids have been introduced in many developed countries and facilitate more efficient and economical utilization of generated power. The components of such a grid are usually remotely monitored and selected components are controlled either manually or through advanced software programs. However, many countries still rely on an Automated Meter Reading (AMR) network. AMR meters periodically report electrical energy consumption information to a centralized location and can also (since they contain batteries) transmit indications of power outage as well as power restoration. We make use of these meters to create a web application that examines and detects faults (blackouts, brownouts and surges) in an electrical grid. This application complements any existing sensor networks and software so that no new equipment needs to be implemented.