Internet of Things for Power and Energy Systems Applications in Buildings: An Overview

This paper highlights state-of-the-art technologies, collectively described as Internet of Things (IoT) to improve energy efficiency in residential and commercial buildings. An appraisal of numerous studies on the subject was carried out to better understand the methods through which IoT systems are being currently deployed to improve energy efficiency in buildings, and further technological enhancements that are needed to accelerate these efficiency gains. Many of the present IoT studies have been focused on one specific problem, inefficient heating systems in buildings. Core IoT elements, such as the hardware components and management control software are usually discussed to some degree in most of the research studies. Although the types of applications varied per study, similar design patterns were observed. Some of the major design commonalities are: the choice of options for powering sensors and actuators; control methods for collecting data and controlling devices; historical data acquisition as a base to forecast ahead energy usage; and the methods by which IoT elements interact with one another. The research indicates that while similarities exist among different IoT systems, any chosen system design must be largely specific to its application. Factors such as the number of sensors used, the number of actuated devices, the optimal control method, and personal security of the end-user are application-dependent and must all be considered. Future research directions should examine optimal methods of providing remote power to devices, decipher strategies to keep isolated IoT networks secure, maintain a balance between meeting user comfort requirements and allowing a system to remain relatively autonomous, and optimize system performance in the context of the above requirements and constraints.