INTERGATION OF SIM800L GSM MODULE IN A MICROCONTROLLER-BASED 1KVA SOLAR INVERTER OFF-GRID POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Student: Saoban Ayomidimeji Akano
Supervisor: Engr J P Oguntoye
HOD: Engr A S Falohun
Department of Department of Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering and Technology
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State

Abstract

The integration of smart communication modules into renewable energy systems has become essential for achieving efficient monitoring and control. This project focuses on the integration of the SIM800L GSM module into a microcontroller-based 1 kVA solar inverter off-grid power management system to enhance system automation, monitoring, and fault reporting capabilities. The solar inverter converts DC power from photovoltaic panels into AC power for household or small-scale use, while the microcontroller manages power flow, battery charging, and load distribution. The inclusion of the SIM800L GSM module enables remote communication between the inverter and the user through SMS alerts, allowing real-time updates on battery status, load conditions, and system faults. This innovation reduces manual supervision, improves reliability, and enhances energy management efficiency, especially in remote or rural areas. The system design combines hardware components—such as a solar charge controller, inverter circuitry, and GSM module—with embedded software developed for real-time data acquisition and control. Experimental results demonstrate that the integrated system provides a reliable, cost-effective, and intelligent solution for off-grid power management, aligning with the growing need for smart renewable energy technologies. The microcontroller serves as the central processing unit, coordinating key operations such as solar power input regulation, battery charging and discharging control, inverter switching, and load prioritization. The SIM800L GSM module is incorporated to establish a wireless communication link between the inverter system and the end user. Through this integration, the system can transmit real-time operational data—such as battery voltage, load status, charging condition, and fault diagnostics—via SMS notifications. Users can also remotely query or control the system, thereby minimizing the need for physical supervision, especially in off-grid or remote installations. The proposed system architecture includes a solar charge controller, DC-AC inverter stage, voltage and current sensing circuits, protection mechanisms against overcharging and overloading, and a GSM-based communication interface. The embedded software, developed using C language, enables seamless interaction between the hardware components and the GSM module, ensuring accurate data acquisition and reliable communication. Simulation and experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the system in maintaining stable power output, optimizing battery performance, and providing efficient remote monitoring capabilities. The integration of GSM-based communication significantly improves user awareness of system performance, enhances fault detection, and ensures timely maintenance responses. Keywords: SMS-Based Control, Inverter Management, Remote Power Control, GSM Module, Microcontroller.

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