Concordia University researcher develops smart home system for solar efficiency

Amir Abbas Aghajani at Concordia University is conducting research into direct current smart home systems to optimize the use of renewable energy. The project aims to coordinate solar generation, battery storage, electric vehicles, and automated heating controls to manage electricity supply and consumption more efficiently.

The proposed system includes a power converter designed to minimize energy losses between solar panels and household loads. A key feature of the research is the ability to prioritize electricity usage; when power is scarce, the system can automatically shed certain demands or prioritize specific loads. Additionally, the project explores the dual role of electric vehicles, which can both consume electricity during charging and supply power back to the home when needed.