An Intelligent Smart Meter-Based Load-Limiting Strategy for Residential Distribution Transformer Protection: A Simulation Study

Abstract

Distribution transformer overloading remains a significant challenge in residential electricity distribution networks due to  voltage deterioration, excessive thermal stress, accelerated equipment ageing, and reduced service reliability. This study presents a simulation-based evaluation of an intelligent smart meter load limiting strategy for residential distribution transformer protection. An interactive MATLAB R2024a simulation model was developed to represent a 50 kVA distribution transformer supplying five households under conventional and smart metering conditions. The proposed framework integrates real time load monitoring, transformer voltage regulation, overload detection, fuse protection, and an automated smart meter algorithm featuring progressive penalties, temporary disconnection, permanent lockout after repeated violations, and authorised restoration. Simulation results show that conventional metering permits unrestricted electricity consumption, leading to sustained transformer overloading, voltage reduction, and eventual fuse operation that disconnects all consumers. In contrast, the proposed strategy selectively disconnects only consumers exceeding their assigned load limits, thereby maintaining transformer loading within acceptable operating limits, improving voltage regulation, preventing unnecessary fuse operations, and ensuring uninterrupted supply to compliant consumers. The developed simulation platform provides a practical tool for evaluating intelligent transformer protection strategies and demonstrates the potential of smart meter based demand side management for improving transformer reliability and supporting modern smart grid operation.