Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of renewable energy and embedded systems. Specifically, it involves an IoT-based hybrid power generation system that utilizes both solar and wind energy sources. The invention aims to optimize power generation efficiency and provide real-time monitoring and control through IoT integration. It is suitable for remote, off-grid, and smart energy applications
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
The invention aims to develop an IoT-based hybrid power generation system that combines solar and wind energy for efficient and reliable electricity production. It seeks to enable real-time monitoring and control through IoT technology. The system is designed to optimize energy usage, reduce dependency on conventional sources, and provide a sustainable solution for remote or off-grid locations.
BACK GROUND OF THE INVENTION
The continuous rise in global energy demand, coupled with the depletion of conventional fossil fuel resources and concerns over environmental degradation, has accelerated the transition toward renewable energy sources. Solar and wind power have emerged as two of the most accessible and sustainable options due to their widespread availability and minimal environmental footprint. However, their standalone applications are hampered by intermittency issues—solar energy is unavailable during nighttime or cloudy conditions, while wind energy is subject to erratic wind patterns. To address these limitations, hybrid energy systems that integrate solar and wind resources have become increasingly important, particularly for off-grid and rural electrification applications.A hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) optimally combines solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and wind turbines to ensure a more stable, efficient, and reliable electricity supply. These systems harness the complementary nature of solar and wind patterns to overcome intermittency and maximize energy production. Additionally, with advancements in power electronics, microcontrollers, and the Internet of Things (IoT), it is now possible to intelligently monitor, control, and optimize the operation of such systems in real time.The project presented here explores the development of an IoT-based hybrid energy generation system that merges solar and wind energy sources, equipped with smart energy management and remote monitoring capabilities. The system comprises solar panels, a wind turbine, a battery energy storage unit, a charge controller, a DC-AC inverter, and an ESP32-based microcontroller for IoT integration. Real-time data on power generation, battery status, and energy usage is displayed on an LCD and transmitted via Wi-Fi to a cloud platform, enabling efficient monitoring and control.Such a system holds promise for decentralized, clean energy generation in areas lacking grid infrastructure, supporting sustainable development and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Moreover, the integration of IoT enhances automation, predictive maintenance, and energy optimization, thereby extending system lifespan and performance.US20150042125A1,describeshybrid renewable energy system with intelligent control.This patent discusses an integrated hybrid energy system using solar and wind energy with an intelligent controller that automatically balances and regulates power flow between sources and load. US8847397B2 disclosesremote monitoring of hybrid energy systems Focused on an IoT-based architecture for remotely monitoring the status and performance of solar and wind components, this patent aligns closely with the monitoring functions in the presented project.US20140265958A1, describespower control system for hybrid renewable energy generation. Describes a smart controller that adjusts the power output from renewable sources depending on load demand and battery state of charge, enhancing system efficiency.US20170035456A1,discloses IoT-enabled energy management for hybrid systems.This patent highlights the integration of IoT modules for real-time data acquisition, analytics, and optimization in hybrid renewable systems, similar to the ESP32-based solution used in the project.US10199976B,discloses Modular renewable energy system with real-time adaptive control covers the design of modular hybrid systems capable of dynamically reallocating resources based on environmental conditions and user-defined settings.
The hybrid solar-wind system discussed in this project is particularly beneficial for rural and remote areas, where conventional grid infrastructure is either absent or unreliable. In such locations, residents often depend on diesel generators, which are costly, noisy, and environmentally unfriendly. A hybrid renewable solution not only eliminates the recurring costs associated with fuel-based generation but also contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions and air pollution.By incorporating Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities through a microcontroller such as the ESP32, this system gains a technological edge in automation and remote supervision. Real-time parameters such as solar voltage, wind current, battery status, and load consumption can be continuously monitored. This data is transmitted over Wi-Fi to a central dashboard or cloud server, allowing users or system administrators to detect faults, analyze performance trends, and schedule maintenance without needing to be physically present.One of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy systems is the fluctuation in generation and storage inefficiencies. Solar energy is subject to time-of-day and weather conditions, while wind energy is seasonal and location-dependent. By integrating both, the system can maintain a more balanced and reliable energy output. For instance, during the daytime, solar panels can handle the majority of the load, while at night or on cloudy days, wind turbines can supplement the demand. This complementary operation ensures maximum uptime and energy availability.Energy storage, typically in the form of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), is another critical component. The system utilizes batteries to store excess energy generated during peak periods and release it during low generation intervals. The batteries are monitored and protected using a Battery Management System (BMS), which controls charging, discharging, and thermal performance.Another technical highlight is the hybrid inverter, which converts DC energy from both the wind and solar subsystems into usable AC power. The inverter is also designed to work in both grid-tied and off-grid modes, giving users flexibility in how they deploy the system. Smart relays, automatic cutoff mechanisms, and safety protocols ensure user and equipment protection.
In summary, this invention leverages modern engineering tools and clean energy principles to build a sustainable, intelligent, and scalable power solution. It aligns with the global goals for sustainable development, climate action, and technological empowerment. By focusing on user-friendly design and adaptability, this system sets a strong precedent for the future of hybrid renewable energy infrastructure.
The scalability of the proposed IoT-based hybrid energy generation system offerssignificant advantages for a wide range of applications. From small-scale residential installations to larger community or institutional projects, the modular design allows users to scale the system according to specific energy requirements and budget constraints. Additionally, because of its reliance on open-source hardware and software platforms, future upgrades and customizations can be easily implemented without major overhauls or proprietary limitations.
In terms of system intelligence, machine learning algorithms could be incorporated into the IoT platform to enable predictive analytics and adaptive energy management. For instance, by analyzing historical data and weather forecasts, the system could proactively adjust charging and discharging cycles, optimize energy usage patterns, and anticipate maintenance needs, thereby further enhancing reliability and efficiency. This data-driven approach can also inform strategic decisions such as whether to expand solar capacity, upgrade battery storage, or optimize wind turbine settings.Another important consideration is the environmental and social impact of deploying such hybrid systems. By replacing diesel generators and reducing dependence on centralized fossil-fuel-based grids, communities can achieve substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, decentralized energy systems foster energy independence, empower local economies, and promote resilience against natural disasters or grid failures. In remote educational institutions, healthcare centers, and agricultural operations, reliable renewable energy can transform service delivery and quality of life.Economically, although the initial capital investment for a hybrid renewable energy system may be higher compared to conventional solutions, the long-term savings in fuel, maintenance, and environmental costs are significant. Financial models such as community ownership, microfinancing, and government incentives can further accelerate adoption and make the technology accessible to marginalized communities.
In conclusion, the IoT-based hybrid solar-wind energy generation system outlined in this project represents a critical advancement in sustainable energy technology. By combining clean energy generation, intelligent control, and real-time monitoring, it offers a resilient, efficient, and future-ready solution for decentralized power needs. With its emphasis on modularity, scalability, and user-centric design, the system embodies the next step in global efforts toward an inclusive and greener energy future.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to an IoT-based hybrid power generation system that integrates solar and wind energy to optimize energy production. The system uses sensors and IoT technology to monitor environmental conditions such as solar radiation, wind speed, and temperature in real time. Data collected by the IoT devices is processed and analyzed to determine the most efficient combination of solar and wind power generation, ensuring continuous and reliable energy supply. The system automatically adjusts power generation based on available resources, maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing energy waste. A centralized control unit allows remote monitoring and management, providing users with the ability to track performance, receive alerts, and make adjustments as needed. This hybrid approach offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution to power generation, particularly in areas with fluctuating renewable energy sources
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an IoT-based hybrid power generation system that integrates solar and wind energy to optimize power production. This system leveragesadvanced Internet of Things (IoT) technology to monitor and manage the generation of solar and wind energy, ensuring efficient and sustainable energy production. The system consists of solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity and wind turbines that harness wind energy. To enhance performance, the system includes sensors and IoT devices that monitor environmental factors such as wind speed, solar radiation, temperature, and humidity, which affect energy generation. These sensors feed data into a central IoT-based control unit, which processes and analyzes this information in real time. The control unit determines the most efficient configuration of solar and wind energy based on the current environmental conditions, automatically switching between or blending the two sources to maximize power output.
The data collected by the sensors is processed using a smart algorithm, which adjusts the energy generation strategy to meet current demand. This system ensures that when solar radiation is low, the wind turbines will compensate, and vice versa, ensuring consistent energy availability. Additionally, the system allows for remote monitoring and control through a user-friendly mobile app or web interface, enabling users to track energy production, receive alerts, and make necessary adjustments from anywhere. This remote control also aids in predictive maintenance, alerting users to any potential issues before they become critical, thus minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. Furthermore, the hybrid system integrates with energy storage solutions such as batteries, allowing for the storage of excess energy when production exceeds demand. This stored energy can be used later, ensuring a continuous power supply even during periods of low solar or wind activity.The IoT-based hybrid system is scalable, allowing for easy expansion by adding more solar panels, wind turbines, or storage devices, making it suitable for both small-scale residential setups and large-scale commercial or industrial applications. This flexibility makes the system adaptable to a wide range of power generation needs. By utilizing renewable energy sources and optimizing their efficiency through IoT technology, the system helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and contributing to a more sustainable energy future. Moreover, the combination of smart management and remote monitoring enhances cost-effectiveness by reducing energy waste, lowering maintenance costs, and improving the overall performance of the system. In conclusion, the IoT-based hybrid power generation system offers a reliable, sustainable, and efficient solution for modern energy needs, making it an ideal choice for those looking to invest in renewable energy.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION of THE DRAWING
Figure 1 illustrates the overall configuration of the hybrid energy system, which integrates multiple renewable energy sources and smart energy management components. The system includes a solar panel (1) and a wind turbine (2) as the primary sources of energy. Power from these sources is conditioned through a DC-DC converter (3) before being monitored and managed by a central microcontroller (6). The microcontroller interfaces with an IoT module (7) for remote monitoring and control, displaying system parameters via an LCD and communicating with an IoT platform. The power generated is stored in a battery (6), which supplies energy to an inverter (7) that converts the DC power to AC. The output is then fed through a step-up transformer to meet the grid-standard 230V AC, providing power to connected loads.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING
Figure 1 illustrates the configuration of a hybrid renewable energy generation system that integrates solar panels (1) and wind turbines (2) as dual energy sources. Both sources feed energy into dedicated DC-DC converters (3) to stabilize and condition the generated voltage. The conditioned energy is monitored and controlled by a central microcontroller (6), which regulates energy distribution across the system.The microcontroller (6) works in coordination with a relay circuit to manage power routing, control charging of the battery bank (4), and detect faults. The stored energy is delivered to an inverter (7) that converts the DC output from the battery into AC, followed by a step-up transformer to elevate the voltage to standard 230V AC for load use.An IoT module (4) interfaces with the microcontroller, enabling real-time data monitoring and transmission to a remote IoT platform via LCD display. This supports user interface and cloud connectivity for analytics, fault alerts, and remote system management. , Claims:The scope of the invention is defined by the following claims:
CLAIMS:
1. A hybrid renewable energy system comprising:
 a. A solar panel (1) configured to generate DC electricity from sunlight. A wind turbine (2) configured to generate electricity from wind energy.
 b. A DC-DC converters (3) coupled respectively to the solar panel and wind turbine for voltage conditioning.
 c. A microcontroller (6) operatively connected to the converters to monitor and control the energy flow. A battery unit (6) for storing excess energy generated by the solar panel and wind turbine
2. According to claim 1, wherein the battery is connected to an inverter (7) configured to convert DC to AC power, and a step-up transformer for voltage regulation.
3. According to claim 1, further comprising an Internet of Things (IoT) module (4) configured to communicate with the microcontroller and transmit operational data to a remote platform.