Title: Design of an SMS-Based Relay Control System for Household Energy Regulation in Rural Solar Mini-Grids
Authors: Chukwunomso Samuel
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 32-38
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
Energy management remains a critical challenge in rural solar mini-grids with uncontrolled household demands leading to overloading,inefficiency and frequent blackouts. In tackling this challenge, this paper presents the designof an SMS-based relay control system to control householders' energy in rural solar mini-grids. The system architecture includes an Arduino microcontroller,a10A relay module,and a SIM900A GSM communication unit to control loads at a distance by sending only a Short Message Service (SMS). This design uses a technology, such as GSM, that is much more likely to be available in rural areas than the internet connectivity that other IoT solutions need, which makes it more realistic in that kind of setting. Although the system was not physically constructed, the design illustrates how operators can remotely connect or disconnect household loads to prevent excessive demand, enhance grid stability, and ensure fairer distribution of energy.The proposed approach also focuses on low cost, scalability, and ease of deployment in offering a practical solution toward enhancing the reliability and sustainability of rural electrification projects. The paper contributes to the promotion of energy access by demonstrating that GSM-based control systems have the potential to effectively enhance mini-grid systems that utilise renewable energy in resource-restricted environments.