Control hvac systems during demand response events

Abstract

Apparatus, systems, methods, and related computer program products for executing demand response (DR) events via smart networked thermostats associated with buildings. The disclosed system includes an energy management system operated with intelligent networked thermostats located in buildings. A thermostat is operable to control the HVAC system. Control during a DR event period may be performed based on an optimal control trajectory for the HVAC system, where the control trajectory is optimal in that it includes a first factor representing total energy consumption during a DR event period, representing occupancy A cost function for the combination of a second factor that is a measure of patient discomfort and a third factor that represents a dispersion of energy expenditure rates over a DR event period is minimized.

Description

[0001] related application [0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Serial No. 13 / 866,635, filed April 19, 2013, which claims the benefit and benefit of U.S. Serial No. 13 / 842,213, filed March 15, 2013 Continued in part, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. technical field [0003] This patent specification relates to systems, apparatus, methods, and related computer program products for controlling an HVAC system during a demand response event. More particularly, this patent specification relates to techniques for intelligently selecting and / or optimizing control trajectories for HVAC systems during demand response events. Background technique [0004] Utilities face ongoing challenges in meeting demand for electricity at all times. Facilities for generating electricity are generally adapted to supply a steady amount of electricity. However, the reason why consumer demand for electricity is often completely opposite...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

By way of example, while the above-described methods of direct load control, temperature dropback control, and direct load control followed by temperature dropback control generally result in some amount of reduced energy use across a base of participating consumers during a load shedding event, such an impact on the consumer base The "one size fits all" approach can result in a substantial missed opportunity for more efficient load transfer and reduced consumer inconvenience

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