Demand Response Load Shedder Kit with ESP32 + Relay
Prevent Overdraws Automatically with the ESP32 Demand Response Load Shedder 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.
You are about to build a responsive shield against grid overdraws — a DIN-rail mounted controller that reads AC consumption from a PZEM-004T sensor and, the moment power exceeds a threshold, disconnects non-critical loads via an 8-channel relay module. This kit places a fully functional demand-response node at your fingertips, ideal for campus hostels, microgrid labs, or hackathon prototypes where load prioritization meets real-world electrical safety.
What You'll Build
You will assemble a complete load-shedding system inside a professional DIN-rail enclosure. The ESP32 polls the PZEM-004T every second; live voltage, current, power, and energy data appear on the OLED display, while timestamped logs store to a MicroSD card. When a user-configurable threshold is exceeded, relays shed predetermined loads in sequence — restoring them only when the total draw drops safely below the limit. The onboard RTC lets you program time-of-day tariffs, simulating utility demand-response calls.
What You'll Learn
- Interfacing the PZEM-004T energy meter with ESP32 via serial Modbus to extract granular AC parameters.
- Designing hierarchical relay logic: essential, semi-essential, and interruptible load categories with programmable shedding rules.
- Implementing DS3231 RTC-based scheduling to mimic time-of-day pricing and automatic load restoration.
- Engineering robust power-backup with the LM2596 buck converter and capacitor filtering, ensuring sensor and controller stability during relay switching.
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP32 Dev Board | 1 |
| PZEM-004T | 1 |
| 8-ch Relay Module | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| MicroSD Module | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| LM2596 Buck Converter | 1 |
| 1000µF 25V Caps | 3 |
| 100nF Caps | 10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| DIN Rail Enclosure | 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
Built for B.Tech ECE and EEE students tackling energy management projects, this kit is a ready-to-demonstrate solution for Smart India Hackathon, campus microgrid competitions, and capstone submissions at IITs, NITs, VIT, and BITS. It’s equally valuable for electrical engineers prototyping demand-response logic for solar hybrid systems or research scholars testing load-shedding algorithms with physical relays.
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?
Scan the QR code to chat with the AI companion, which knows every connection and code line. If you prefer a human touch, WhatsApp us — we’ll walk you through the exact step.
Can I integrate this with my existing inverter or solar setup?
Yes. The PZEM-004T can sit on the grid import line, and you can program the ESP32 to shed loads when net draw exceeds your sanctioned load or when the battery SoC drops. The AI companion includes logic snippets for inverter-coupled setups.
What is the maximum current the relay module can handle?
The included 8-channel relay module is rated at 10A per channel at 250VAC, suitable for shedding loads like geysers, air conditioners, water heaters, or lab equipment. Always respect the connected load’s inrush current and install proper circuit protection.
Does the kit come with preloaded firmware?
No, it is an advanced build kit. The AI companion provides tested, modular code blocks and full circuit diagrams. You’ll write and tune the load-shedding logic yourself, giving you complete ownership of the final firmware.
PZEM-004T monitors grid draw. Above threshold, relays shed priority loads automatically.
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.
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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