Review: Home energy management system in a Smart Grid scheme to improve reliability of power systems

Home energy management system (HEMS) concept rises from the development of smart homes that build interaction between users with their home appliances in order to operate automatically, multi-functionally, adaptably and efficiently. In line with technological developments and published regulations related to environmental issues, smart home applications evolve into HEMS applications which are not only to provide ease and convenience, but also to monitor and to make efficient energy use at home, thereby reducing peak power quantity and electricity bill. Smart grid is an intelligent power grid starting from its generation, transmission and distribution. It combines computing technology, artificial intelligence and communications technology which creates a smarter power system and is able to produce better power quality and lower generation cost. In the smart grid scheme, by means of HEMS applications, consumers can participate in improving the quality of power systems. This study will discuss about the development of HEMS in associated with smart grid technology particularly the role of HEMS application with its DSM (Demand Side Managment) and PEV (Plug-in Electric Vehicles) programs in the smart grid scheme to improve quality of power systems. Several studies have shown that the contribution of HEMS to the smart grid system can improve the power losses and voltage profile.