A Novel Smart Home Energy Management System: Architecture and Optimization Model

Objective: To optimize energy consumption in a home, through a new architecture that incorporates a Home Energy Management System (HEMS) and a decision algorithm that takes into account a mathematical model that includes different automated electronic devices. Methods: We propose a new architecture for a Home Energy Management System (HEMS), which includes a WEB server, interconnection with the different electrical and electronic devices through the Wi- Fi network or Power Line Communications (PLC), and automated electronic devices employing arduinos. Additionally, a mathematical model is proposed to define the decision algorithm, as to which is the best profile or scenario that should be set in the home to minimize the cost of energy. The model takes into account the electricity service rate. Findings: We simulate the proposed model in architecture with 8 electronic devices, evaluating 4 scenarios or user profiles, which take into account the demand of each one, as well as the cost of electric energy in the course of the day. In the software CPLEX, we evaluated the mathematical model and this allowed determining the costs of each scenario, according to the demand in different time slots. The simulation results show that with the proposed architecture and the decision algorithm, fed by the results of the mathematical model, it is possible to minimize the cost of electric power in the home. Application: The proposed architecture can be implemented economically in the home, taking into account user profiles or the season of the year. The model allows minimizing the cost of electrical energy of a house, taking into account the electronic equipment that can be planned and those of continuous operation.