Achieve 50Hz Stability in Islanded Microgrids: ESP32 Load-Frequency Controller Kit
Achieve 50Hz Stability in Islanded Microgrids: ESP32 Load-Frequency Controller Kit
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
In an islanded renewable microgrid, sudden load changes can drag frequency away from 50 Hz in seconds. This kit lets you build a working ESP32-based controller that senses bus frequency through a ZMPT101B transformer, measures real power with a PZEM-004T, and executes relay load shedding with millisecond coordination - exactly the logic inside commercial protection panels.
What You'll Build
You'll assemble a DIN-rail mounted frequency controller. It monitors a simulated microgrid, implements a P-f droop curve in firmware, logs every event to microSD with DS3231 timestamps, and toggles an 8-channel relay bank to shed non-critical loads when frequency dips. The OLED displays live frequency, power, and relay status.
What You'll Learn
- Program ESP32 to measure line frequency with sub-0.1 Hz accuracy using zero-crossing detection
- Code a droop characteristic curve (kW/Hz slope) that decides when to shed loads
- Coordinate relay sequences for priority-based load shedding and restoration
- Log pre- and post-event waveforms to microSD with RTC timestamps for offline analysis
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP32 Dev Board | 1 |
| ZMPT101B | 1 |
| PZEM-004T | 1 |
| 8-ch Relay Module | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| MicroSD Module | 1 |
| LM2596 Buck Converter | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 100nF Caps | 10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 3 |
| DIN Rail Enclosure | 1 |
| 12V 5A PSU | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
This advanced kit targets B.Tech EEE final-year students and M.Tech power systems researchers at IIT, NIT, VIT, BITS Pilani, and similar institutions. It is equally valuable for Smart India Hackathon energy-track teams needing a ready-to-test load-frequency module, and for renewable energy startups prototyping islanded microgrid controls.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project - accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Open the AI companion via the QR code or send a WhatsApp message with a photo of your wiring. We'll diagnose within hours, often minutes.
Can I test this with a real microgrid inverter?
The ZMPT101B accepts up to 250V AC; but for safety, we strongly recommend scaling down mains voltage with an isolation transformer during first tests. The companion explains safe test setups.
What software do I need to program the ESP32?
Arduino IDE or PlatformIO. All firmware code is provided, and the companion walks you through library installation and calibration for both ZMPT101B and PZEM-004T.
How does the droop control logic handle multiple relays?
The firmware scans frequency every 5 cycles. If frequency crosses a threshold, it sheds the lowest-priority relay; if it recovers, relays re-engage after a configurable dead time. You can edit thresholds and slopes via the companion's code explanation.
ESP32 maintains 50Hz frequency in islanded microgrid using load-frequency droop control via relay banks.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit - 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo - 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items