Date of Award

6-7-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Santa Clara : Santa Clara University

Department

Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Ahmed Amer

Abstract

Our goal is to develop a system that reduces peak grid loads by 60%, which saves consumers and businesses money as well as protecting the environment by eliminating the use of fast start up generators. We accomplish this by implementing Arduinos --which are versatile microcontrollers-- equipped with networking technology that allows communication between houses in a neighborhood. Through this communication, we can schedule when appliances are used to avoid everyone using their appliances at the same time and we can eliminate the need for such exorbitant energy usage during peak hours. Our work implements ongoing research that is looking into cost-effective and environmentally friendly grid management.

Share

COinS