- 1Faculty of Systems, Electronics and Industrial Engineering, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, Ambato, Ecuador
- 2Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Jaén, Linares, Spain
- 3Department of Electrical Engineering, Electronics, and Telecommunications (DEET), Universidad de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
- 4Department of Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov, Romania
The smart grid paradigm has introduced new capabilities for monitoring and managing intelligent energy systems. In this context, IoT environments integrate smart sensors and devices to record electricity consumption and production in real time. This article proposes a methodological framework for energy management that incorporates real-time data processing, predictive modelling, and supercapacitor-based storage control to address short-term power fluctuations caused by load variability. The proposed approach is implemented in three phases. First, demand data are collected using a smart meter, with measurements stored on a local server. In the second phase, the data are processed to develop a forecasting model based on a Wide Neural Network, which updates autonomously. In the final phase, energy management is performed using a demand smoothing algorithm and a supercapacitor charge/discharge control mechanism. The forecasting performance was assessed through a comparative analysis of neural network models. The WNN achieved a correlation coefficient of 0.94 and a mean absolute percentage error of 6.3%. These results were obtained in a real-time processing environment and demonstrate the model’s ability to generalize under variable load conditions. In addition, the proposed system enables direct control of the storage system’s state of charge based on forecasted demand and a predefined power reference. Experimental validation was conducted in a prototype setup integrating smart metering, data acquisition, and automated response capabilities.
1 Introduction
The sustained growth in global electricity demand has prompted the development of strategies to improve the efficiency of generation, transmission, and distribution processes (Nespoli and Medici, 2025; Laurencio et al., 2024). Concurrently, the increasing integration of renewable energy sources has led to more decentralized power systems, bringing generation closer to consumption points and significantly reducing transport-related energy losses (Arévalo et al., 2025). In this context, enhancing the operational autonomy of power systems is essential for better energy planning and real-time management.
Accurate modelling and forecasting of demand behavior are therefore strategic for optimizing energy resource usage and for supporting resilient and sustainable system operations (Dewangan et al., 2023). The use of smart meters (SMs), together with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), enables detailed and continuous monitoring of electricity consumption, generating high-resolution time series suitable for forecasting models (Li et al., 2011; Weranga et al., 2012). These technologies also facilitate demand-side management by identifying peak usage periods and notifying users or control systems to prevent overloads and reduce costs (Komatsu and Kimura, 2020).
Short-term electricity demand forecasting (STDF) has traditionally been classified into static and dynamic models. Static models—such as polynomial interpolation—have been integrated into SM-based systems for real-time decision-making, especially in industrial settings where load patterns are relatively stable over short periods (Weranga et al., 2012). These models can be embedded directly into metering hardware, enabling rapid responses and alerts without relying on external computation.
The significance of STDF has been highlighted in recent studies, particularly for its role in minimizing technical losses, improving billing precision, and supporting optimal operation under time-of-use tariff schemes (Li et al., 2011; Komatsu and Kimura, 2020). Furthermore, the deployment of AMI systems has expanded the capabilities of forecasting models by incorporating environmental and behavioral factors, such as weather conditions, appliance usage, and regional consumption profiles (Miyasawa et al., 2021). These developments have supported the evolution of more advanced forecasting techniques based on artificial intelligence.
When integrated with machine learning methods, data streams from SMs can enhance predictive models in complex, non-linear environments (Ali et al., 2024). In particular, the use of non-parametric, AI-based models in combination with smart metering has shown strong potential for improving load forecasts and supporting demand-side energy control strategies.
This study presents a methodological framework for real-time demand forecasting and energy smoothing using SMs and supercapacitors. The proposed approach comprises three stages: data acquisition via smart metering, demand prediction using a Wide Neural Network (WNN), and implementation of a smoothing model based on supercapacitors to mitigate power fluctuations. The system has been experimentally validated in a microgrid testbed.
1.1 Literature review
Recent studies have examined the integration of smart meters (SMs) with machine learning techniques to improve load forecasting. For example, Mehdipour Pirbazari et al. (2020) conducted a systematic comparison of four machine learning algorithms—Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Classification and Regression Trees (CART), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)—applied to hourly residential energy consumption data. As a general foundation, classical works on ANNs such as Haykin (2009) offer a structured description of supervised and unsupervised learning, activation functions, training strategies, and convergence behavior, providing the theoretical underpinnings for later applications in energy demand forecasting. Building on this theoretical base, more recent surveys such as Dini and Paolini (2025) show how ANN models are applied in battery management, particularly for estimating the state of charge of EV and HV batteries. Their adaptability to complex, nonlinear patterns of electrochemical systems demonstrates the transferability of ANN approaches to different domains of energy management, including demand prediction, since both involve real-time assessment of dynamic variables under uncertain operating conditions. At the same time, broader reviews like Barbierato and Gatti (2024) remind that while ANN models achieve high predictive accuracy, their opaque decision-making process raises questions about interpretability. This issue is theoretical in nature and has practical implications in power system applications, where transparency of forecasting and control models is important for trust, validation, and operational accountability. Together, these perspectives connect the conceptual foundation, practical applications, and methodological challenges of ANNs, situating their role within demand forecasting frameworks that combine predictive modeling and real-time control.
Distributed learning techniques have also been investigated. For instance, the FedAVG-based approach in Fekri et al. (2022) improved prediction accuracy while minimizing communication overhead. Hybrid architectures such as LSTM-XGBoost have outperformed standalone configurations in several cases (Dewangan et al., 2023), and autoregressive neural networks have been successfully applied to predict harmonic distortion from SM data (Rodríguez-Pajarón et al., 2022). Additionally, recurrent neural networks such as Bi-LSTM and GRU have been used to address overfitting in high-dimensional datasets and to enhance forecast precision (Steephen et al., 2023). More recent contributions extend this line of work toward transformer-based forecasting, where attention mechanisms capture long-term dependencies in load patterns and probabilistic schemes quantify forecasting uncertainty (Hu et al., 2024). In parallel, NILM-oriented research has advanced through transformer-enhanced models, showing improved disaggregation of aggregated demand signals and enabling better representation of appliance-level dynamics (Rong et al., 2025). Further developments integrate NILM with smart grid management, where transformer-based algorithms support the analysis of flexible loads and electric vehicle charging, linking detailed consumption patterns with operational cost optimization (Yang et al., 2025).
A time-series decomposition method using parametric modeling was proposed by Mondal and Das (2023) to analyze residential consumption patterns in London. Their findings highlighted the sensitivity of model calibration to seasonal and cyclical variations. In another study, Neupane et al. (2024) trained a neural network model using AMI data from a distribution system in Nepal, reporting robust performance across diverse load types and climatic conditions. Incorporating temperature and temporal variables was found to significantly improve short-term forecasting.
From a spatial analysis perspective, Miyasawa et al. (2021) introduced a geo-referenced forecasting framework using SM data, where spatial granularity was used as a clustering criterion for regional optimization. In parallel, Abera and Khedkar (2020) addressed appliance-level consumption forecasting with a focus on feature engineering and correlation-based variable selection to reduce computational complexity. More recent studies have explored non-intrusive load monitoring approaches that employ transformer networks to improve the disaggregation of household and commercial demand. For example, transfer learning strategies have been incorporated into transformer-based NILM models to enhance generalization across diverse load types, reducing the need for large annotated datasets while maintaining high predictive accuracy. Likewise, new serial multi-task transformer algorithms have been introduced to analyze cyclical dependencies in household demand, enabling the separation of EV charging and other flexible loads from aggregate smart meter data. These advances demonstrate how disaggregation techniques enrich the quality of input signals available for short-term demand forecasting, connecting appliance-level analysis with broader system-level management (Rong et al., 2025; Yang et al., 2025).
Evolutionary algorithms have also been employed to train neural networks for load prediction in smart grids, as discussed in Kumar et al. (2025a). Related developments include adaptive probabilistic models with architecture tuning (Wang et al., 2022) and hybrid frameworks such as ADELA (Kumar et al., 2025b). Techniques like singular value decomposition (SVD), K-shape clustering, and empirical mode decomposition (EMD) have been applied to improve data preprocessing and input representation in Bi-LSTM-based models (Cao et al., 2023).
Finally, the EDF-FMLA model presented by Ghazal et al. (2021), which integrates IoT-based SMs with deep extreme learning and automatic load control, achieved a prediction accuracy of 90.70%, exceeding that of traditional models. Collectively, these contributions reflect a transition from conventional statistical methods to more complex, hybrid deep learning models closely linked with real-time metering infrastructure.
Table 1 provides a comparative synthesis of recent contributions and identifies key research gaps.
Table 1. Summary of contributions, strengths, and gaps in related studies on load forecasting with SM.
1.2 Research problem
Although smart metering infrastructure and advanced forecasting techniques have become increasingly prevalent, the integration of predictive intelligence with real-time energy smoothing remains insufficiently developed. As discussed in Section 1.1, most existing studies prioritize improving the accuracy of short-term load forecasts using machine learning models—ranging from deep neural networks to federated learning and hybrid optimization. However, these approaches rarely include an implementation layer that enables active control of demand profiles or mitigation of power fluctuations.
The incorporation of energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors, into forecasting-based control systems has received limited attention. While some recent works have proposed automatic load control or IoT-based supervisory schemes, fe—if any—address the combined challenges of: (i) high-resolution real-time demand forecasting using SM data, (ii) activation of a load balancing system based on predictive profiles, and (iii) experimental validation in a physical testbed. This disconnect between prediction and control reduces the practical utility of forecasting models, particularly in microgrid and distribution-level environments where peak shaving, demand smoothing, and flexibility are essential.
Additionally, although several models incorporate spatial and temporal features, the design of adaptive architectures capable of autonomous operation within a short control horizon remains largely unexplored. This limits the effectiveness of intelligent demand-side management systems in reducing peak demand charges or preventing local grid overloads—especially under dynamic tariffs and high renewable energy penetration.
To address these gaps, this research proposes a methodological framework that integrates: (i) short-term load forecasting via a WNN trained on SM data; (ii) real-time energy smoothing through a supercapacitor-based control model; and (iii) experimental deployment within a microgrid laboratory equipped with real-time measurement systems. By linking data acquisition, forecasting, and physical actuation, the proposed system aims to support the development of power systems that are more autonomous, responsive, and energy efficient. In addition, the scope of the objectives has been defined in measurable terms: the forecasting model is required to achieve a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) below 10%, the estimation of the supercapacitor state of charge (SoC) must be validated under real-time conditions, and the smoothing algorithm is tested during peak ramp events to evaluate its ability to mitigate abrupt variations in demand. These targets provide a clear basis for assessing forecasting accuracy, storage dynamics, and demand-side control within the experimental framework.
2 Methodology
The proposed method is structured in three main stages: (i) demand forecasting, (ii) power smoothing, and (iii) reference power calculation for the supercapacitors. Figure 1 illustrates the sequence of operations involved in the energy smoothing strategy based on predictive analysis.
The process begins with the collection of daily demand data from previous days. These records are organized into daily vectors, which are then compiled into a weekly matrix. This dataset is used to train the forecasting model, which predicts the next day’s demand. The forecasted values serve as input for calculating the SoC of the storage system and adjusting model parameters retrospectively. The model also receives real-time inputs from the current SoC and instantaneous power demand.
As the algorithm runs, incoming data is processed continuously, allowing the system to refine its behavior based on updated conditions. The following subsections describe each stage of the methodology in detail.
2.1 Demand forecast
2.1.1 Recording data in matrix form
The monitoring system is based on a smart energy meter that records
where
The general matrix for the 5 days of registration can be represented in an extended form as Equation 2:
2.1.2 Data preprocessing
During data acquisition with smart meters, temporary interruptions may occur due to communication issues, network instability, or hardware constraints. These interruptions can introduce measurement errors or gaps in the recorded data. Missing values (NaN) or invalid entries compromise the integrity of the input vectors used for model training. To address this issue, a linear interpolation strategy is applied directly to reconstruct missing values. This approach leverages the temporal structure of the data, preserving continuity in the time series and enabling reliable prediction of load profiles. This approach preserves the temporal continuity of the dataset, enabling reliable prediction of load profiles. The process is formalized through Equations 3–5.
where the time and target columns are removed from the DataFrame. The time column is excluded to focus exclusively on state variables, while the target column is discarded because it contains incomplete records before the 24-h period is completed, which could bias the prediction process.
where
In this way, this procedure aligns with best practices in data preparation for intelligent systems, where input quality is crucial for the performance of the proposed model. The application of this interpolation methodology improves the information density of the dataset and also reduces the bias introduced by random omissions, strengthening the robustness of the analysis.
2.1.3 Neural model architecture
The proposed neural network is defined as a Multilayer Feedforward model (See Equation 6) consisting of densely connected layers. The general expression for each layer
where
The model structure is defined by Equations 7–12:
where
The model configuration was defined through an empirical tuning process aimed at maximizing generalization capacity while avoiding overfitting. The number of neurons per layer (128, 64, 32) was determined through sensitivity analysis and grid search, promoting hierarchical feature extraction with minimal computational redundancy. A dropout layer with a rate of 0.3 was included as a regularization mechanism to reduce reliance on specific units and enhance robustness against unseen data. The batch size of 48 was selected for its optimal balance between gradient stability and computational efficiency, particularly in scenarios with high daily variability. The validity of these parameters is supported by the performance analysis presented in Section 3.4.1.
2.2 Supercapacitor model
The proposed system includes an integrated power distribution architecture in which supercapacitors (SC) are incorporated to smooth the demand curve and reduce power fluctuations caused by load variability. Figure 2 illustrates the configuration. The supercapacitor unit, labeled as SC, performs energy storage and exchange via a bidirectional interface comprising AC/DC and DC/AC converters connected to the power grid.
The point of common coupling (PCC) is implemented through a low-voltage 230 Vac Delta-Wye (
The behavior of the EDLC supercapacitor is modeled using the following Equations 14–16:
where
The dynamic SoC of the SC can be calculated based on its charge and discharge current during a time interval according to the following expression:
where
where
2.3 Power smoothing model
2.3.1 Ramp rate control
The dynamics of the load power variation
Charge/discharge control according to power variation can be set as follows:
where
2.3.2 Real-time SoC estimation
The calculation of the SoC estimate for supercapacitors is determined by the energy stored during charging
where
Consequently, the total energy stored in the SC during a time
where
The SC SoC restriction is limited in its maximum
2.3.3 SoC prediction adjustment
The estimated SoC value is recalculated from Equations 25–28. Where the forecast demand values are used to establish the fit in the demand power smoothing model, that is:
where the expected reference power value
Similarly, the total energy expected to be stored in the SC
The SoC in response to the SC demand forecast model, expressed as a percentage, is calculated using the following Equation 28:
Finally, the adjustment factor in the correction of the reference power to the SCs
where
3 Results and discussion
3.1 Case study
The evaluation of the experimental results was carried out in a low voltage three-phase distribution board of the Faculty of Systems, Electronics and Industrial Engineering of the Technical University of Ambato. The measuring equipment integrates three CT (Current Transformer) type current sensors of 500A JCT36K 3000: 1. In Figure 3 it can be observed in detail in (2). These sensors are incorporated into the smart meter (3) based on PZEM004T and ESP32 m (See Figure 2) with an access point (4) for reading power data in real time at the coupling point of the Main switch (1). The data is recorded and stored on the server (5) for subsequent processing and data analysis. Finally, the SC-based storage system (6) and the two-level bidirectional inverter (7) with Fsw = 2.5 kHz allows a dual flow from the grid with a maximum capacity of 0.4 kWh from the University of Cuenca’s Microgrid Laboratory (Espinoza et al., 2017). Table 2 below summarizes the essential electrical and operational parameters of the distribution panel, supercapacitor module, and bi-directional inverter, which together define the configuration and performance of the integrated power management system.
3.2 Data acquisition and preprocessing
The weekly log matrix data are detailed in Figure 4a for weekdays and non-working days. Furthermore, the load power fluctuates during working hours, while maintaining a constant level during non-working hours. Figure 4b summarizes the distribution data for the week. The average value of around 15 kW for weekdays and a constant demand of 3 kW during non-working hours are highlighted. Similarly, a representative data pattern is assumed for weekdays, which will be analyzed later using neural networks in the following section to estimate the demand forecast for these days.
3.3 Forecast results with the WNN
This section presents the performance of the WNN model during the training and validation phases applied to the demand data matrix. For the training dataset (70%), a correlation coefficient of
Figure 5. WNN training and validation: (a) Training data (70%), (b) Data validation (30%), (c) Model validation and (d) Error Histogram.
Figure 5b displays the validation results using the remaining 30% of the data. In this case, the correlation was
When evaluating the complete dataset, the resulting correlation coefficient was
Figure 5d shows the error histogram with a distribution around zero, which may confirm the model’s high accuracy. However, a greater distribution toward negative values is observed, indicating a marginal tendency to underestimate demand at certain points. In summary, the results indicate a model with high predictive capacity with the established data matrix and predictable behavior over time. This analysis was carried out using specialized MATLAB R2025a Neural Network Training tools using the Feed-Forward Neural Network with high precision in the results.
After configuring the adjustment parameters and validating the WNN model, it was implemented for real-time operation. The network was developed and trained in Python using libraries such as TensorFlow, Keras, Scikit-learn, Pandas, and NumPy. The architecture was designed to forecast multiple hourly energy demand values based on sequences of four consecutive days of historical data. During preprocessing, missing values were treated using forward- and backward-fill techniques, and the data were normalized using the MinMaxScaler method. Training was conducted over 500 epochs with a batch size of 48, employing mean squared error (MSE) as the loss function and the Adam optimizer. The model generates predictions within a confidence interval of
Figure 6. Forecast results: (a) WNN validation results and (b) Error (%) difference between real time and prediction.
3.4 Evaluation of the predictive model
3.4.1 Training and validation of models
A comparison is made of some of the most commonly used neural networks for demand forecasting to evaluate the model. The following neural networks were selected for this evaluation: Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Narrow Neural Network (NNN), Bilayer Neural Network (BNN), Robust Linear Regression (RLR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and WNN to validate the results. The tuning parameters of each model are evaluated based on a data matrix from three previous days, and their predicted response on the fourth day is assessed. The optimization of this process involves the analysis of weekdays. Subsequently, these models are validated in a pre-simulation environment for the best performing section of the network. These results are presented in Figures 7a–7f.
Figure 7. Training and validation: (a) Long Short-Term Memory, (b) Narrow Neural Network, (c) Bilayered Neural Network, (d) Robust Linear Regression, (e) Support Vector Machine and (f) Wide Neural Network.
Figure 7a presents the evaluation of the LSTM network, recognized as a foundational architecture in demand prediction models and one of the most representative among recurrent neural networks. Alternatively, the NNN model used in this study (Figure 7b) was configured with a single fully connected layer of 10 units and employed the ReLU activation function. Training was carried out over a maximum of 1,000 iterations without regularization
Finally, Figure 7f presents the WNN model adopted in this study. It comprises a single layer with 100 neurons and ReLU activation, trained over 1,000 iterations without regularization. Standardization was applied to enhance numerical stability. Among the evaluated configurations, this architecture demonstrated improved capacity for learning nonlinear demand patterns, with more precise temporal alignment than the alternatives.
3.4.2 Evaluation indices
After analyzing the training and validating the models, this section presents the results, which are analyzed based on the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) indicators, which estimates the standard deviation of the prediction and actual errors; the R-Square or coefficient of determination
where
The results of this evaluation are presented in Table 4. According to Section 3.4.1, the resulting values of the RSME,
Figure 8a presents a representative comparison based on four important areas for demand forecasting. The first Zone in Figure 8b corresponds to the response of the models to a small initial load connection. In Figure 8c corresponding to Zone 2, the response is executed to a growing slope of demand during the first working hours of the day, then a drop in demand is generated at midday (See Figure 8d), where an adjustment of most of the models in this section is observed. Finally, Figure 8e in the Zone 4 reflects the decreasing slope of the day. These values emphasize the importance of analyzing demand and finding specific patterns that allow to optimize the application of these predictive models in a better way.
3.5 Evaluation of the power smoothing model
In this section, the results of the demand power smoothing model based on Equations 17–29 are presented. Figure 9a shows the demand curve profile from 5:00 to 19:00 h, where the real-time demand profile
Figure 9. Validation of the models: (a) Load power and smoothed power, (b) Reference power to SC for charge/discharge cycles and (c) SoC of the supercapacitor.
It is worth highlighting the dynamics of the storage system’s power output, which operates at specific times of charging (positive peaks) and discharging (negative peaks), in sync with demand (Benavides et al., 2024). Furthermore, the progressive decrease in the SCs state of charge allows for recovery at the end of the workday around 7:00 p.m. This representation supports the storage system’s effectiveness in offsetting power demand fluctuations, optimizing grid supply, and maintaining operating load levels within established ranges, improving its energy efficiency and energy quality for the grid.
3.5.1 Sensitivity analysis by adjustment coefficient
This section presents a sensitivity analysis of the adjustment coefficient, as established in Equation 29. This coefficient enables optimal regulation of the state of charge values, ensuring they remain within a predefined interval. Figure 10 displays the results of this configuration under various values of the adjustment coefficient. The values of demand power, predicted power, and smoothed power are analyzed under different adjustment coefficients, along with their response to both the real and predicted state of charge. In Figures 10a,b, a noticeable increase in the real-time SoC compared to the predicted value is observed, attributed to a low adjustment coefficient
Figure 10. Adjustment coefficient: (a) Power smoothing
Additionally, Figures 10e,f, with
3.5.2 Sensitivity analysis by test days
Finally, a sensitivity analysis is performed considering the test days Monday, Friday, and Saturday, with the objective of validating and evaluating the operation of the proposed model under different demand conditions. Figure 11a details the demand profile with a high power change rate and the system response as
Figure 11. Sensitivity analysis: (a) Smoothed load power test on Monday, (b) SoC assessed and operating range on Monday, (c) Smoothed load power test on Friday, (d) SoC assessed and operating range on Friday (e) Smoothed load power test on Saturday (f) SoC assessed and operating range on Saturday.
4 Conclusion
The integration of IoT tools in electrical systems has improved access to and analysis of operational data. This study implemented smart meters for real-time demand forecasting, incorporating fast-response energy storage to manage load variations and anticipate future demand trends. The main findings of the research are outlined below.
The forecasting system was based on the construction of demand matrices from historical data and the application of a Wide Neural Network. This configuration achieved correlation coefficients above 0.94 and a mean absolute percentage error of 6.3%, surpassing other evaluated models such as SVM and RLR.
The model supports real-time adaptation through continuous data acquisition and processing. Both the current demand and the system load state contributed to iterative updates of the forecast, allowing the system to respond to changing operating conditions.
The energy smoothing algorithm reduced ramp rate variations associated with demand fluctuations by adjusting the reference power signal according to the supercapacitor’s state of charge. This result confirms the system’s function as a buffer against short-term variations in power flow.
The methodology follows a modular structure and is implemented using Python libraries (TensorFlow, Keras, Scikit-learn), which allows for its integration into broader IoT-based energy management platforms.
Finally, the integration of predictive forecasting with energy storage control enables future developments in anticipatory management strategies, where load behavior forecasts inform storage operation based on projected demand and SoC adjustments.
Data availability statement
The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.
Author contributions
DB: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal Analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Software, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing. PA-C: Conceptualization, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing. JE: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Validation, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing. DO-C: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing. DT: Formal Analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Software, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing. AR: Formal Analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Project administration, Resources, Software, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing.
Funding
The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article.
Acknowledgments
AcknowledgementsThe authors thank the Dirección de Investigación y Desarrollo (DIDE) of the Universidad Técnica de Ambato for supporting this work through the research project PFISEI36, “Development of Computational Tools for the Management and Optimization of Smart Microgrids.” The authors thank the Faculty of Engineering, Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador, for easing access to the Micro-Grid Laboratory’s facilities, allowing the use of its equipment, and authorizing its staff to provide technical support necessary to carry out the experiments described in this article.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
Generative AI statement
The author(s) declare that no Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript.
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Nomenclature
SC Supercapacitor
SM Smart meter
WNN Wide Neural Network
BNN Bilayered Neural Network
NNN Narrow Neural Network
RLR Robust Linear Regression
SVM Support Vector Machine
LSTM Long Short-Term Memory
Keywords: smart meter, demand forecasting, energy management, supercapacitors, real-time, power smoothing
Citation: Benavides D, Arévalo-Cordero P, Espinosa Domínguez J, Ochoa-Correa D, Torres D and Ríos A (2025) Smart meter-based demand forecasting for energy management using supercapacitors. Front. Energy Res. 13:1681139. doi: 10.3389/fenrg.2025.1681139
Received: 06 August 2025; Accepted: 27 October 2025;
Published: 13 November 2025.
Edited by:
L. J. Muhammad, Bayero University Kano, NigeriaReviewed by:
Yunqi Wang, RMIT University, AustraliaAnna Diva Lotufo, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho, Brazil
Copyright © 2025 Benavides, Arévalo-Cordero, Espinosa Domínguez, Ochoa-Correa, Torres and Ríos. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Dario Benavides, ZGouYmVuYXZpZGVzQHV0YS5lZHUuZWM=