A Review on IoT-Based Carbon Footprint Tracking System for Demand-side Energy Management

Abstract

Demand for energy management solutions has grown due to global concerns about energy consumption and its environmental impact. The upward trajectory of CO2 levels in the atmosphere is unsustainable for the near future, potentially leading to a significant increase in average global temperatures and extreme weather conditions like drought, heatwaves and floods. These conditions could further jeopardise food security and affect 30-132 million people's livelihoods. Carbon footprint tracking can help identify areas of high emissions and implement strategies to reduce them. Cloud-based IoT device deployment with real-time data visualisation can improve energy efficiency and cut energy costs by monitoring consumption, remotely controlling energy use, predicting maintenance needs and optimising energy usage. This review analyses the various energy management strategies and the benefits of using an IoT-based carbon footprint tracking system for demand-side energy management, the potential to effectively support the achievement of UN SDG 12 &13 goals within the desired timeframe and the need for further innovation. Carbon footprint is a valid metric and feedback in demand-side energy management for urban settlements (70% of electricity usage), where cost as a metric has proven inefficient. This indicator can significantly influence the behavioural attitudes and changes in electricity usage patterns of all electrical customers.