Empowering global energy solutions: AI-driven energy management for sustainable and affordable access.

Pirie, Craig; Kalutarage, Harsha; Hajar, Muhammad Shadi; Wiratunga, Nirmalie; Charles, Subodha; Muthukumarana, Rachitha; Manuranga, Supun; Sundaru, Geeth; Buddhika, Priyantha

Abstract

Reliable and affordable electricity access is critical globally, particularly in rural areas disconnected from the national grid. Mini-grids, which are small-scale power systems serving specific geographic areas, emerge as a feasible solution by harnessing diverse energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and diesel. These systems can function independently or alongside the national grid, offering enhanced energy security and the ability to sell surplus power. Mini-grids primarily leverage renewable sources, thereby promoting sustainability and improving health equity. However, the variability of wind and solar power due to weather and seasonal changes presents challenges, necessitating accurate energy generation and demand forecasting. To address these issues, we propose an AI-powered mini-grid management system in Sri Lanka, focusing on optimising energy supply, demand, and management using AI technologies, supplemented by battery storage and a diesel generator backup. This approach boosts the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of rural mini-grid systems, fostering economic growth and increasing household incomes.

Citation

PIRIE, C., KALUTARAGE, H., HAJAR, M.S., WIRATUNGA, N., CHARLES, S., MUTHUKUMARANA, R., MANURANGA, S., SUNDARU, G. and BUDDHIKA, P. 2024. Empowering global energy solutions: AI-driven energy management for sustainable and affordable access. Presented at the 2024 All-energy exhibition and conference (ALL-ENERGY 2024), 15-16 May 2024, Glasgow, UK.

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: 2024 All-energy exhibition and conference (ALL-ENERGY 2024)
• Start Date: May 15, 2024
• End Date: May 16, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jul 8, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 8, 2025
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Energy sources; Green energy; Sustainable energy; Renewable resources
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2922725