Smart Energy Meter and Theft Detection Using ESP32

Abstract

A smart energy meter is a device that tracks electricityusageinrealtimeandsendsthedatadirectlyto utility companies. It helps consumers monitor and control their energy consumption more effectively. These meters also detect energy theft by identifying tampering, unusual usage patterns, and voltage irregularities. If any suspicious activity is detected, the meter sends alerts to the utility provider. Smart meters improve billing accuracy, grid management, and help prevent electricity theft, making them an important tool for modern energy systems.

Introduction

Smart energy meters are advanced devices that provide real-time monitoring of electricity consumption and transmit data automatically to utility providers. They ensure accurate billing, efficient energy usage, and play a crucial role in detecting electricity theft through features like tamper detection, anomaly monitoring, and remote alerts.

Literature Review Highlights

• Smart meters help reduce peak demand and total energy usage when combined with time-based pricing.

• Machine Learning (ML) techniques improve detection of anomalies and tampering.

• Historical energy data aids in identifying theft and improving billing.

• GSM-based and microcontroller-powered meters allow remote monitoring and load control.

• Smart systems improve automation, energy efficiency, and theft prevention.

Smart Meter Components

1. Current Sensor (SCT-013): Measures AC current non-invasively; detects irregular usage.

2. Voltage Sensor (ZMPT101B): Measures AC voltage; detects inconsistencies.

3. LED Display (I2C 16x2): Displays live readings; simplifies connectivity with ESP32.

4. Buzzer: Alerts users of tampering or abnormal activity.

5. ESP32 Microcontroller: Central processing unit; enables real-time data analysis and wireless communication.

6. Block Diagram: Illustrates data flow from sensors to ESP32 and output devices like buzzer and display.

Software & App Integration

• ESP32 collects and processes sensor data, triggers alerts, and displays results.

• Blynk IoT App: Displays live voltage, current, and power usage. Sends theft alerts and enables remote control of devices.

Key Benefits

1. Real-Time Monitoring: Enables efficient energy use tracking.

2. Accurate Billing: Reduces errors from manual readings.

3. Cost Savings: Helps users understand and reduce their consumption.

Theft Detection

• Definition: Identifying unauthorized electricity usage through real-time monitoring.

• Methods:

  • Anomaly Detection: Finds irregular consumption.

  • Tamper Detection: Detects physical manipulation.

  • Alerts: Sends real-time warnings to utility providers.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces utility revenue loss.

  • Ensures billing fairness.

  • Enhances grid stability.

  • Allows timely intervention.

Case Studies

• India (Tata Power): Smart meters detect tampering and improve billing accuracy.

• USA (Pacific Gas & Electric): Smart meters provide real-time monitoring and theft detection.

Quantitative Impact

• Up to 50% reduction in electricity theft (non-technical losses).

• Smart meters offer up to 99% accuracy.

• Utility companies may see 10% cost savings.

• Theft detection algorithms reach up to 80% effectiveness.

Technical Specifications

• Power Supply: Operates on 220–240V AC with optional battery backup.

• Tamper Features: Include sensors and alarms for unauthorized access.

Social Implications

• Consumer Awareness: Encourages energy conservation.

• Fair Pricing: Accurate consumption ensures fair billing for all users.

Global Adoption Examples

• India (Tata Power): Used in both urban and rural settings.

• USA (PGE): Part of statewide smart grid modernization.

Future Trends

1. IoT Integration: For real-time remote data access.

2. AI & Data Analytics: To detect theft and predict usage trends.

3. Automated Alerts: Faster utility response to anomalies.

Conclusion

Smart energy meters and theft detection systems greatly improve how we manage and secure energy use. They use internet technology and data analysis to provide accurate monitoring and help consumers manage their energy better. These systems also help utility companies find and prevent energy theft, protecting their revenues. To make these technologies work well, we need clear rules, strong privacy protections, and teamwork among different groups. Overall, using smart energy meters and theft detection can lead to a more efficient, secure, and sustainable energy future.

References

[1] Faruqui,A.,Sergici,S.,&Sharif,A.(2010).” TheImpact of Smart Metering on ElectricityConsumption: A Review of the Evidence.” Energy Policy, 38(7), 3979- 3989. [2] Kothari,D.,&Mollah,M.(2017).”MachineLearningApproachesforAnomalyDetectioninSmartMeters.”Computers, Environment and Urban Systems, 62, 94- 102. [3] Gupta, S., & Kumar, R. (2015).” Historical Data Analysis for Smart Metering Systems.” IEEE Transactions on Smart Grid, 6(1), 123-132. [4] MohaleV.P,BabarD.G,Dr.D.Y.Patil“Ingenious Energy Monitoring Control and Management of Electrical Supply”. [5] Instituteofengineeringandtechnology, Pageno254- 257,October30-November01,2015.4.PatelDarshit, Patel H.B “GSM based energy meter monitoring and load control”, IRJET, vol-0. [6] Govindak“Design of Smart Meter using Atmel 89S52Microcontroller”,SMARTGRIDTechnologies, Page no 376-380 August 6-8, 2015.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Mangesh Yedge, Prasiddha Kadam, Parth Patekar, Gauri Jadhav, Ashwini Khade. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.