Design and construction of line monitoring and alerting system on a low voltage power distribution network

Abstract

This project presents the design and implementation of an automated low-voltage power distribution line monitoring and alerting system aimed at improving fault detection, reporting, and response time in Uganda’s power distribution network for the undeserved regions. The system leverages an Arduino-based microcontroller integrated with current sensors (ACS712), a voltage divider circuit, and a SIM800L GSM module to detect and report key anomalies such as outages, short circuits, and phase imbalances in real time. Transformer loading and efficiency were also calculated periodically to assess performance and support preventive maintenance. Alerts were displayed locally using a 16x2 LCD and remotely via SMS. The system was simulated in Proteus and validated through hardware testing under various fault conditions. It offers a low-cost, scalable solution to enhance grid reliability in underserved areas, aligning with national electrification goals.