New Delhi: The Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi has partnered with the Eastern Regional Load Dispatch Centre (ERLDC) to design and develop an AI-enabled system that will help consumers manage their energy use more efficiently, officials said on Tuesday.

The system will feature a real-time-of-use (TOU) tariff plan, under which the cost per unit of electricity will vary based on the time of day, reflecting real-time supply and demand.

According to Preeti Ranjan Panda, Dean of Corporate Relations, IIT Delhi, the project aims to create a smart home energy management system capable of optimising electricity consumption and costs while maintaining user comfort. The system will integrate smart plugs, sensors and a microcontroller to process data from time-of-use pricing, weather conditions, occupancy patterns and user preferences.

“Using machine learning and optimisation algorithms, it will automate load control, support demand flexibility and enhance grid reliability. With rising electricity demand and dynamic pricing structures, it is essential to empower consumers with intelligent tools to manage their energy use efficiently.

“The integration of AI with smart home technologies marks a significant step towards sustainable and consumer-centric power systems. The project also emphasises data security and privacy through wireless network protection and encryption mechanisms to ensure secure data exchange between devices and controllers,” Panda said.

A user dashboard will enable consumers to visualise their energy usage and savings in real time.

ERLDC, one of the five Regional Load Dispatch Centres operated by Grid Controller of India Limited (Grid-India), is responsible for maintaining grid stability and reliability in the eastern region. It manages operations across eastern states through real-time monitoring, load management and coordination with State Load Dispatch Centres.