The increasing energy generation expenditure makes it very expensive for the users. This problem directs the attention of research to either searching for new cheap sources of energy or increasing the awareness of the importance of the energy among individuals. Recently, modern living standards have been significantly changed by the quick development of technology, which has increased demand for smart homes automation solutions. However, current systems are only accessible to a select group of experts and wealthy consumers because of their high complexity, high costs, proprietary limitations, and incompatibility across different standards. This study examines several studies that tracking and controlling energy consumption in smart homes, showing their characteristics and methods. In addition, it highlights the limitations of current systems and suggests more adaptable, scalable and independent system architecture that may improve the efficiency of these systems. Most of the research inform each home of their excess consumption through a simple mobile application that anyone can understand. It serves the consumer on a personal level by rationalizing electricity consumption and also achieves rationalization of general consumption of energy.