Project Hub /Test & Measurement Instrumentation/Multimeters, Voltmeters & Ammeters/Hybrid AC–DC Smart Grid Using IoT and Cloud Monitoring

Intermediate

ESP32

Project Specific

6 – 12 Hours

Partial Kit

Hybrid AC–DC Smart Grid Using IoT and Cloud Monitoring

This project integrates traditional AC grids with DC systems such as solar panels and EV chargers, coordinating them using IoT, automation, and cloud platforms.

Originally published on ElectronicsForU

View original tutorial

Parts You'll Need

This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.

ESP32 WiFi+Bluetooth CP2102 Development Board Rs. 520.00
Piezo Buzzer (Big) 6-12V Rs. 45.00
5V 1 Channel Relay Module Rs. 45.00
10pcs - 220 ohm 1/4 W Resistor Set Rs. 39.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality Rs. 89.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi Rs. 139.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm Rs. 45.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm Rs. 45.00

Selected: Rs. 0.00

This list includes a generic resistor set as a placeholder — it is not matched to the exact value or part number this circuit needs. The correct one is specified on the original source page linked above; check it before buying.

We don't carry yet: Current Sensor ACS712
Voltage Sensor Module
Optocoupler (PC817 / 4N35)
Diodes (1N4007 / 1N4148 / Schottky / Zener)
9V Battery + Snap
Capacitors
ESP 8266 MOD2

Browse all components

How It Works

The Hybrid AC–DC Smart Grid system coordinates and monitors power flow across both alternating current and direct current sources by leveraging an ESP32 or ESP8266 microcontroller setup. For the AC side, a 230V AC/9-0-9V 4A transformer (G1, G2) steps down the mains voltage, which is then rectified using a bridge rectifier (KBL06) RT1, filtered by a 1000uF 25V electrolytic capacitor C1, and measured safely using the ZMPT101B voltage sensor S1 alongside ACS712 current sensors (S2, S3, S4). On the DC side, the INA219 current and voltage sensor S5 tracks DC parameters from sources like solar panels or EV chargers. The microcontroller processes these electrical measurements in real-time, communicating data via Wi-Fi to a cloud IoT platform programmed through the Arduino IDE. Depending on grid conditions and programmed thresholds, the microcontroller can trigger a 5V single-channel relay RL1, which is isolated from low-voltage logic by a PC817 optocoupler IC1, 1N4007 diode D1, SS54L diodes D3 and D4, and current-limiting resistors R1 (12K ohm) and R2 (10K ohm). Additionally, a buzzer BZ1 provides audible alerts during system anomalies, ensuring automated and responsive control over the hybrid energy infrastructure.

Why Build This

Gain practical experience designing IoT-enabled smart grid architectures that merge traditional AC power distribution with modern DC renewable energy systems.

Develop competency in interfacing multiple specialized voltage and current sensors with microcontrollers for real-time cloud telemetry and data logging.

Implement automated relay switching and optoisolation techniques to safely control mixed-voltage electrical loads under undergraduate engineering standards.

Real-World Application

Modern power distribution, renewable energy integration, smart cities, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure management.

Skills You'll Learn

AC/DC power measurement

IoT cloud integration

sensor signal conditioning

optoisolation circuit design

relay automation control

I2C/analog telemetry processing

Safety Precautions

Exercise extreme caution when working with stepped-down 230V AC mains and transformer circuits to prevent electric shock.

Technology Tags

IOT

CLOUD MONITORING

SMART GRID

AC-DC HYBRID

VOLTAGE SENSING

CURRENT SENSING

AUTOMATION

RELAY CONTROL

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect the ZMPT101B voltage sensor directly to high-voltage AC mains?

No, the ZMPT101B is designed to interface with stepped-down AC voltage from a transformer, such as the 230V AC/9-0-9V transformer listed, to maintain safety and prevent damage.

What is the purpose of the PC817 optocoupler in this circuit?

The PC817 optocoupler provides electrical isolation between the microcontroller's low-voltage logic circuitry and the 5V single-channel relay controlling higher-power sections, protecting the board from voltage spikes.

Do I need both the ESP32 and ESP8266 for the project to work?

No, the project supports either the ESP32 DevKit v1 or the ESP8266 NodeMCU as the central microcontroller platform for Wi-Fi connectivity and sensor data processing.

Gallery

This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.

Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.

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