Storage amount management system and storage amount management method

Abstract

A storage amount management system is provided in a specific area in which a microgrid including a consumption device and a power supply device is set, and manages a storage amount of hydrogen in a hydrogen storage device that stores hydrogen, and has a detection device that detects the storage amount, and a server (200) that adjusts a production amount of hydrogen in a production device in such a manner that the storage amount of hydrogen stored in the storage device in a predetermined period becomes a target storage amount. The server (200) sets the target storage amount in such a manner that a hydrogen amount α corresponding to a residual power amount of a preparation period in which generated power of each prescribed period in which renewable energy is used is greater than a threshold value is greater than a hydrogen amount β corresponding to a residual power amount of a normal period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the management of the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage devices installed within a defined microgrid area. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, small-scale power grids (hereinafter referred to as microgrids) that use localized power supply facilities to meet the electricity needs of localized power consumption devices without relying on large-scale power generation equipment have attracted attention. Localized power supply facilities include various small-scale distributed power sources. These distributed power sources include, in addition to power generation equipment using renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind power, stationary energy storage devices, energy storage devices mounted on electric vehicles, stationary fuel cells, or fuel cells mounted on fuel cell vehicles. Therefore, hydrogen infrastructure is sometimes installed within a specific area, such as hydrogen production facilities to produce hydrogen for fuel cells and hydrogen storage facilities to store the produced hydrogen, storing the hydrogen as surplus electricity. In such microgrids, power supply facilities are managed to meet the electricity consumption needs of the localized area even when disconnected from the external power grid.

[0003] For example, a technology was disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-28198.

[0004] In the above technology, the voltage of the microgrid power system is maintained in the event of loss or instability of the external power system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In the event of disasters such as floods due to seasonal weather changes within a specific area of ​​a microgrid, or in adjacent areas, where the grid outside the specific area is sometimes cut off, the power demand can still be met by the power supply facilities within that specific area. Renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind power can sometimes experience variations in power generation due to the location, topography, or season of the specific area. Therefore, even in the event of a disaster, in order to maintain the ability to meet power demand through the power supply facilities within the specific area, it is necessary to properly manage the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen infrastructure to secure surplus power in advance.

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a storage management system and a storage management method that appropriately manages the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage devices installed within a defined microgrid area.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a storage management system that manages the amount of hydrogen stored in a hydrogen storage device located within a specific area. A microgrid is established in the specific area. The microgrid includes power-consuming devices and power supply devices capable of supplying power to the power-consuming devices. The power supply devices include power generation devices capable of generating electricity using renewable energy and fuel cells capable of generating electricity using the hydrogen stored in the storage device. A hydrogen production device that uses electricity to produce hydrogen stored in the storage device is also established in the specific area. The storage management system includes: a acquiring device that acquires the storage amount; and an adjusting device that adjusts the amount of hydrogen produced in the production device in a manner that the amount of hydrogen stored in the storage device within a predetermined period becomes a target storage amount, the target storage amount including a base... The target storage quantity and the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining power in the microgrid are determined by the following: based on historical information related to past disasters, a period containing the same date as a period in a predetermined period with a higher frequency of past disasters than other periods is set as an emergency period; a period earlier than the emergency period is set as a preparation period; and at least a portion of the periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period are set as normal periods. The regulating device sets the target storage quantity in such a way that the first amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining power in the preparation period is greater than the second amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining power in the normal period.

[0008] During the preparation period, it is required to ensure sufficient remaining power before the emergency. Therefore, by setting a target storage amount that is greater than the first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during the preparation period and the second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during normal periods, it is possible to store an appropriate amount of hydrogen to cope with the disaster.

[0009] In one embodiment, the regulating device sets the target storage amount in such a way that the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining electrical power is less during normal periods compared to other periods.

[0010] In this way, the target hydrogen storage amount is set such that the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the surplus power is not stored during normal periods compared to other periods, thus suppressing the increase in electricity consumed to produce hydrogen as surplus power.

[0011] In one implementation, an emergency period includes a predetermined period during which a disaster is predicted to occur in a specific area.

[0012] In this way, periods with a high probability of disasters can be designated as emergency periods.

[0013] Furthermore, another aspect of the present invention is a storage management method, which manages the amount of hydrogen stored in a hydrogen storage device located in a specific area. A microgrid is established in the specific area. The microgrid includes power-consuming devices and power supply devices capable of supplying power to the power-consuming devices. The power supply devices include power generation devices capable of generating electricity using renewable energy and fuel cells capable of generating electricity using the hydrogen stored in the storage device. A hydrogen production device using electricity to produce hydrogen stored in the storage device is also established in the specific area. The storage management method includes: a step of obtaining the storage amount; and adjusting the hydrogen storage in the production device to a target storage amount so that the amount of hydrogen stored in the storage device during a predetermined period is reached. The method for managing hydrogen production includes a target storage quantity comprising a baseline storage quantity and a hydrogen quantity corresponding to the surplus power in the microgrid. The storage quantity management method further comprises: a step of designating a predetermined period containing dates that are more frequent than other predetermined periods of past disasters as an emergency period, based on historical information related to past disasters; a step of designating a predetermined period preceding the emergency period as a preparation period; a step of designating at least a portion of the predetermined periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period as normal periods; and a step of setting the target storage quantity such that a first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the surplus power in the preparation period is greater than a second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the surplus power in the normal period.

[0014] The above and other objects, features, methods and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the respective structures of hydrogen infrastructure and microgrids set up in a specific area. Figure 2 This is a diagram used to illustrate the structure of various periods. Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the configuration processes performed during various periods within a server. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the fourth target storage level during normal periods and the second target storage level during preparation periods. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a server to adjust storage volume. Detailed Implementation

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or corresponding symbols used to denote the same parts in the drawings will not be described again.

[0017] Figure 1This is a diagram illustrating an example of the respective structures of hydrogen infrastructure and microgrids set up in a specific area.

[0018] Specific region 1 may be a region defined as a unit of urban streets and villages, but it may also be a region defined as a part of urban streets and villages, or a region defined as a unit of urban streets and villages. Within specific region 1, microgrid 100 and hydrogen infrastructure 102 are set up.

[0019] Microgrid 100 is a small-scale electrical network that uses power supply devices within a specific area 1 to meet the power needs of consuming devices within that area 1 without relying on large-scale power generation equipment. Microgrid 100 may exchange power with a power grid outside the specific area 1 (sometimes referred to as the external power grid) 400. Alternatively, microgrid 100 can meet the power needs of consuming devices within the specific area 1 by supplying power from various power supply devices within the specific area 1, and may disconnect from the power exchange with the external power grid 400.

[0020] The microgrid 100 includes power supply equipment, consumable equipment, and server 200. The power supply equipment includes a fuel cell vehicle 2 connected to the residence 4, a solar power generation device 12 and a stationary energy storage device 20 installed in the residence 10, an electric vehicle 14 connected to the residence 10, a hydropower generation device 50, and a wind power generation device 52.

[0021] Fuel cell vehicle 2 is a vehicle equipped with fuel cell 3 and capable of supplying power to the outside of the vehicle from fuel cell 3.

[0022] House 4 is connected to fuel cell vehicle 2 via power station 6 and cable 8. House 4 is also connected to power grid 54. Therefore, for example, power can be supplied to power grid 54 from fuel cell 3 mounted on fuel cell vehicle 2 via cable 8, power station 6, and distribution panel (not shown) in house 4.

[0023] Furthermore, regarding the residence 4, if the power supplied from the fuel cell vehicle 2 is less than the power consumed by the electrical equipment installed within the residence 4, the residence 4 becomes a power-consuming device. Additionally, multiple residences 4 as described above can be installed as power supply devices.

[0024] Furthermore, regarding residence 4, a detection device (e.g., a smart meter) is installed to detect the electricity exchanged between the residence and the power grid 54. The detection device sends a signal representing the detection result as power information (1) to server 200.

[0025] The residence 10 is connected to the electric vehicle 14 via a power station 16 and a cable 18. The electric vehicle 14 is a vehicle equipped with an energy storage device 13 and capable of supplying power to the outside of the vehicle from the energy storage device 13. In addition, the electric vehicle 14 is a vehicle capable of charging the energy storage device 13 using power from the power grid 54.

[0026] In the residence 10, a solar power generation device 12 and a stationary energy storage device 20 are also installed. The residence 10 is connected to the power grid 54. Therefore, in the residence 10, for example, power can be supplied to the power grid 54 from the solar power generation device 12 via a distribution panel (not shown) within the residence 10. Furthermore, in the residence 10, for example, power can be supplied to the power grid 54 from the stationary energy storage device 20 via a distribution panel within the residence 10. Furthermore, in the residence 10, power can be supplied to the power grid 54 from the energy storage device 13 mounted on the electric vehicle 14 via a distribution panel within the residence.

[0027] Furthermore, if the electricity supplied from the solar power generation device 12, the electric vehicle 14, and the stationary energy storage device 20 is less than the electricity consumed by the electrical equipment installed in the residence 10, then the residence 10 becomes a power-consuming device. Additionally, multiple residences 10 as described above can be installed as power supply devices.

[0028] Furthermore, in the residence 10, for example, a detection device (e.g., a smart meter) is installed to detect the power exchanged between the residence and the power grid 54. The detection device sends a signal indicating the detection result as power information (2) to the server 200.

[0029] The power grid 54 is also connected to the hydroelectric power generation equipment 50 and the wind power generation equipment 52. The hydroelectric power generation equipment 50 is installed, for example, at a dam in a river. The hydroelectric power generation equipment 50 uses the force (hydraulic power) of the water flowing through the dam to rotate a turbine and generate electricity. The hydroelectric power generation equipment 50 is equipped with a detection device (not shown) for detecting the generated electricity. The detection device sends a signal indicating the detection result as hydroelectric power generation information to the server 200.

[0030] A wind power generation device 52 is installed at a designated location within a specific area 1. The wind power generation device 52 generates electricity by using wind power to rotate its propeller. A detection device for detecting the generated electricity is installed in the wind power generation device 52. The detection device sends a signal indicating the detection result as wind power generation information to the server 200.

[0031] Consumable equipment 56 includes various electrical equipment such as factories and other buildings, streetlights and other lighting equipment.

[0032] Server 200 is a computer that manages the power demand and supply within microgrid 100 and manages power exchange with the external power grid 400. Server 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 202 capable of performing program-based processing, a memory 204 composed of RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), and a communication device 206. In addition to the program, memory 204 stores information used in the program (e.g., mappings, mathematical formulas, or various parameters). Communication device 206 is configured to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with residences 4 and 10, hydroelectric power generation equipment 50, and wind power generation equipment 52 within microgrid 100. Furthermore, communication device 206 is configured to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with hydrogen production equipment 300 and hydrogen storage equipment 302 within a specific area 1. Additionally, communication device 206 can also be configured to communicate wirelessly with fuel cell vehicle 2 and electric vehicle 14.

[0033] Server 200 uses communication device 206 to receive power information (1) from residence 4. Power information (1) may include, for example, information on the power supplied from fuel cell vehicle 2 to grid 54, in addition to the power exchanged between residence 4 and grid 54.

[0034] Furthermore, server 200 uses communication device 206 to receive power information (2) from residence 10. Power information (2) may include, for example, in addition to the power exchanged between residence 10 and power grid 54, information related to the power supplied from solar power generation device 12 to power grid 54, information related to the power supplied from electric vehicle 14 to power grid 54, and information related to the power supplied from stationary energy storage device 20 to power grid 54.

[0035] Furthermore, the server 200 uses the communication device 206 to receive hydropower generation information from the hydropower generation equipment 50 and wind power generation information from the wind power generation equipment 52.

[0036] Server 200 regulates the power generated by power supply equipment such as fuel cell vehicle 2, solar power generation device 12, electric vehicle 14, stationary energy storage device 20, hydropower generation device 50, and wind power generation device 52 to meet the power consumption in the power consumption device 56. Server 200 predicts power demand, for example, using historical power consumption records, and supplies the predicted power demand from the power supply equipment, thereby regulating the generated power. Server 200 monitors the power generated by solar power generation device 12, hydropower generation device 50, and wind power generation device 52. Server 200 requests insufficient power from residences 4 and 10 from fuel cell vehicle 2, electric vehicle 14, and stationary energy storage device 20. In residences 4 and 10, power supply is permitted in response to server 200's request, subject to a fixed incentive, thereby supplying power from fuel cell vehicle 2, electric vehicle 14, or stationary energy storage device 20 to the power grid 54. In this way, the power demand of the consumable devices 56 within the microgrid 100 can be met by power supplied from various power sources without relying on the external power grid 400. Furthermore, in the event of insufficient power supply from various power sources, by receiving power from the external power grid 400 and requesting a reduction in demand from the consumable devices 56, the power demand and supply within the microgrid 100 can be properly managed.

[0037] Furthermore, the memory 204 of server 200 stores information related to the occurrence periods of past disasters in a specific area 1. This information may include, for example, information related to the dates (times) during which rainfall of a fixed amount or more was observed. This information may be input by a user using an input device, or it may be retrieved from an external server (not shown) that stores meteorological data (data linking location, date, and rainfall) and retrieves information related to the dates during which rainfall of a fixed amount or more was observed in the specific area 1.

[0038] Server 200 sets emergency periods, preparation periods, stable periods, and normal periods within a predetermined period based on information related to past disaster occurrences and various information received from power supply equipment within the microgrid 100. The predetermined period is, for example, one year.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of various periods. For example... Figure 2 As shown, server 200 sets emergency period, preparation period, stable period and normal period every predetermined period, and updates each period.

[0040] Specifically, based on historical information related to past disasters, server 200 sets the period containing the same date as a period in a predetermined period that has a higher frequency of past disasters than other periods as an emergency period.

[0041] Furthermore, server 200 sets a pre-determined period preceding the emergency period as a preparation period. In this embodiment, server 200 sets a pre-determined period that is close to the emergency period as the preparation period. The preparation period is, for example, set as a period during which the hydrogen storage capacity in the hydrogen storage device 302 (described later) can be increased to a target storage capacity at the start of the emergency period.

[0042] Furthermore, the server 200 sets a period during which the generated electricity from renewable energy used in each predetermined period exceeds a threshold, excluding emergency periods and preparation periods, as a stable period. In this embodiment, the server 200, for example, sets a period during which the generated electricity from the hydroelectric power generation device 50 exceeds a threshold in each predetermined period as a stable period.

[0043] Server 200 can, for example, obtain the average daily power generation over the past year and set the period during which the obtained average is higher than a threshold as a stable period. Alternatively, it can obtain the average daily power generation over the past few years, obtain the period during which the obtained average is higher than the threshold each year, and set the start and end dates of the stable period with greater weight as it approaches the present.

[0044] Furthermore, server 200 sets the period other than the emergency period, preparation period and stable period in the predetermined period as the normal period.

[0045] Hydrogen infrastructure 102 includes hydrogen production equipment 300, hydrogen storage equipment 302, and hydrogen station 304.

[0046] The hydrogen production equipment 300 uses electricity to produce hydrogen. The hydrogen production equipment 300 delivers the produced hydrogen to the hydrogen storage device 302. The hydrogen production equipment 300 is configured to adjust the production quantity according to hydrogen production instructions from the server 200.

[0047] Hydrogen production equipment 300 can produce hydrogen of a specified purity, for example, using municipal natural gas, LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), or similar raw materials, through a prescribed manufacturing method (e.g., steam modification, partial oxidation modification, or a combination thereof). Alternatively, hydrogen production equipment 300 can also produce hydrogen using biogas from wastewater treatment plants, biomass fuels such as municipal solid waste, or other biomass energy fuels as raw materials. Alternatively, hydrogen production equipment 300 can also produce hydrogen through water electrolysis.

[0048] Hydrogen storage device 302 stores hydrogen produced in hydrogen production equipment 300. For example, hydrogen produced in hydrogen production equipment 300 is liquefied in hydrogen storage device 302, and the liquefied hydrogen is stored in a storage space such as a tank. In hydrogen storage device 302, a detection device 303 detects the amount of stored hydrogen (storage quantity) and sends information related to the storage quantity as storage information to server 200. Hydrogen storage device 302 can also store hydrogen at room temperature, for example, by reacting gaseous hydrogen with other liquids. Regarding hydrogen storage technology at room temperature, known techniques can be used, and the above method is not particularly limited. Hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage device 302 is transported to hydrogen station 304, for example, using hydrogen transport vehicles. Hydrogen station 304 can, for example, supply hydrogen to fuel cell vehicle 2.

[0049] In this way, hydrogen produced in a specific area 1 becomes the power source for the fuel cell vehicle 2. Therefore, by storing hydrogen in the hydrogen storage device 302 corresponding to the remaining electricity, the power demand within the microgrid 100 can be met in the event of a disaster.

[0050] Server 200 adjusts the amount of hydrogen produced in hydrogen production equipment 300, for example, by setting the target storage amount as the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage equipment 302. Thus, even if the microgrid 100 remains disconnected from the external power grid 400 due to disasters or other reasons, the power demand of the consuming devices 56 within the specific area 1 can be met by the power supply equipment within the specific area 1.

[0051] In the structure of the microgrid 100 and hydrogen infrastructure 102 described above, in the event of disasters such as floods due to seasonal weather changes in a specific area 1 or adjacent areas, and while the external power grid 400 is disconnected, the power demand may sometimes be met by the power supply equipment within the specific area 1. The power generation from renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind power may vary depending on the location, topography, or season of the specific area 1. Therefore, even in the event of a disaster, in order to maintain the power demand met by the power supply equipment within the specific area, it is necessary to properly manage the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen infrastructure 102 to ensure surplus power in advance.

[0052] Therefore, in this embodiment, the server 200 sets a target storage amount such that the ratio of a first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during the preparation period is greater than the ratio of a second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during the normal period.

[0053] During the preparation period, it is required to ensure surplus power before the emergency. Therefore, by setting a target storage amount, it is possible to store an appropriate amount of hydrogen to cope with the disaster, in a manner that increases the first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the surplus power during the preparation period compared to the second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the surplus power during normal periods.

[0054] The following is for reference Figure 3 This describes the settings and processing performed by server 200 during various periods. Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the configuration processes performed during various periods in server 200.

[0055] In step (hereinafter referred to as S) 100, server 200 determines whether there is an update to the disaster history record information. For example, server 200 may determine that an update to the disaster history record information has occurred after an update period has passed. Alternatively, server 200 may determine that an update to the disaster history record information has occurred if the content or update date of the disaster history record information stored in memory 204 has changed. Alternatively, server 200 may determine that an update to the disaster history record information has occurred if disaster history record information is received from an external server. If an update to the disaster history record information is determined to exist (yes in S100), the process proceeds to S102. Furthermore, if an update to the disaster history record information is determined not to exist (no in S100), the process proceeds to S106.

[0056] In S102, server 200 sets an emergency period. For example, server 200 sets a period containing past disaster occurrences as an emergency period based on updated disaster history information. Furthermore, in this embodiment, server 200 is described using the example of setting one emergency period within a predetermined period (1 year), but multiple periods can also be set as emergency periods. As a method for setting an emergency period, it can be set on a monthly, weekly, or daily basis. For example, if the disaster history information contains information about a disaster occurring on a specific date in the past with a damage amount, number of affected people, or number of damaged buildings exceeding a fixed range, server 200 sets a specified period containing the same date (or the start and end dates of the same date) as the disaster occurrence period (or period) as an emergency period. For example, server 200 sets the start date of the emergency period as a date that traces back a fixed period (e.g., several days) from the date of the disaster (or the start date of the disaster period) and sets the end date of the emergency period as a date that traces back a fixed period (e.g., several days) from the date of the disaster (or the end date of the disaster period).

[0057] In S104, server 200 sets a preparation period. Server 200 sets the start date of the preparation period back a specified time from the start date of the emergency period, and sets the start date of the emergency period as the end date of the preparation period, thereby setting the preparation period. The preparation period is a period for increasing the remaining power in preparation for the emergency period, and is set as the period required to increase the hydrogen storage to the target storage level. Server 200 calculates, for example, the period required to increase the hydrogen storage to the target storage level based on the predicted storage level at the start date of the preparation period and the upper limit of the hydrogen production per unit time, and sets the period with a fixed margin as the preparation period.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the case where the server 200 sets the period immediately preceding the emergency period as the preparation period is described; however, any period preceding the emergency period is acceptable and is not particularly limited to the period immediately preceding the emergency period. Additionally, when multiple emergency periods are set, multiple preparation periods can also be set before each emergency period.

[0059] In S106, server 200 acquires various power supply information. This power supply information includes power information (1), power information (2), hydropower generation information, and wind power generation information. Server 200 stores the acquired power supply information in memory 204.

[0060] In S108, server 200 determines whether an update during the stable period is necessary. For example, server 200 may determine that an update during the stable period is necessary if an update period for the stable period has passed. Alternatively, server 200 may determine that an update during the stable period is necessary if there is a large discrepancy between a first period (e.g., daily) in which the average power generation for each specified period in the most recent year exceeds a threshold and a second period set as the current stable period. Server 200 may determine a significant discrepancy between the first and second periods, for example, if the first and second periods do not overlap, if there is a discrepancy of more than a specified period between the start date of the first period and the start date of the second period, if there is a discrepancy of more than a specified period between the end date of the first period and the end date of the second period, or if the difference between the length of the first period and the length of the second period is more than a threshold. If the update during the stable period is determined to be necessary (yes in S108), the process proceeds to S110. Furthermore, if the update during the stable period is determined to be unnecessary (no in S108), the process ends.

[0061] In S110, server 200 sets a stable period. The method for setting the stable period is as described above, so its detailed description will not be repeated.

[0062] In S112, server 200 sets the normal period. For example, server 200 sets a period other than emergency period, preparation period, and stabilization period from the predetermined period as the normal period.

[0063] Server 200 sets a target storage amount corresponding to the type of the current period. In addition, the target storage amount includes, for example, a baseline storage amount (baseline storage amount) value and the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining electricity.

[0064] The baseline storage capacity can be set, for example, based on historical data of hydrogen consumption within a specific region 1, and can be set to the same value for a predetermined period, or different values ​​can be set on a monthly, weekly, or daily basis. The amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining power can be set to values ​​corresponding to emergency periods, preparation periods, stable periods, and normal periods, respectively. Therefore, if the current period is an emergency period, server 200 sets the first target storage capacity as the target storage capacity.

[0065] Furthermore, if the current period is a preparation period, the server 200 sets the second target storage amount as the target storage amount. Alternatively, the server 200 may also set the upper limit of the amount of hydrogen that can be stored in the hydrogen storage device 302 as the second target storage amount during the preparation period.

[0066] Furthermore, if the current period is a stable period, server 200 sets the third target storage amount as the target storage amount. Additionally, if the current period is a normal period, server 200 sets the fourth target storage amount as the target storage amount. The fourth target storage amount is a value smaller than the first, second, and third target storage amounts.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the amount of hydrogen stored α corresponding to the amount of remaining power during the preparation period is set to be greater than the amount of hydrogen stored β corresponding to the amount of remaining power during the normal period.

[0068] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the fourth target storage level during normal periods and the second target storage level during preparation periods. Figure 4 On the left, a bar chart represents the fourth target storage level during the typical period. Figure 4 On the right, a bar chart represents the second target storage amount during the preparation period. Figure 4 The vertical axis represents the hydrogen storage capacity. Furthermore, for example, we assume that the baseline storage capacity is the same value Ah(0) during both the normal period and the preparation period.

[0069] At this time, as Figure 4As shown in the bar chart on the left, the fourth target storage level during the normal period becomes the value Ah(1) of the baseline storage level Ah(0) plus the amount of hydrogen β corresponding to the remaining electricity. On the other hand, as Figure 4 As shown in the bar chart on the right, the second target storage amount during the preparation period becomes the value Ah(2) which is the base storage amount Ah(0) plus the amount of hydrogen α corresponding to the remaining power. The amount of hydrogen α corresponding to the remaining power becomes a value larger than the amount of hydrogen β, so the second target storage amount Ah(2) becomes a value larger than the fourth target storage amount Ah(1).

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 5 This illustrates an example of outputting hydrogen production instructions to hydrogen production equipment 300 to process a target storage amount set according to various periods. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by server 200 to adjust storage volume.

[0071] In S200, server 200 determines whether it is an emergency period. Server 200 communicates with the timing device and an external server to obtain the current date. If the obtained current date is within an emergency period, server 200 determines that it is an emergency period. If it is determined to be an emergency period (yes in S200), the process proceeds to S202. Otherwise, if it is determined not to be an emergency period (no in S200), the process proceeds to S204.

[0072] In S202, server 200 sets the first target storage amount corresponding to the emergency period as the target storage amount. Server 200 then transfers the subsequent processing to S214.

[0073] In S204, server 200 determines whether the process is in the preparation period. If the current date obtained is within the preparation period, server 200 determines that the process is in the preparation period. If the process is in the preparation period (yes in S204), the process proceeds to S206. Otherwise, if the process is not in the preparation period (no in S204), the process proceeds to S208.

[0074] In S206, server 200 sets the second target storage amount corresponding to the preparation period as the target storage amount. Server 200 then transfers the subsequent processing to S214.

[0075] In S208, server 200 determines whether it is within a stable period. If the current date obtained by server 200 is within a stable period, it determines that it is within a stable period. If it is determined to be within a stable period (yes in S208), the process proceeds to S210. Furthermore, if it is determined not to be within a stable period (no in S208), the process proceeds to S212.

[0076] In S210, server 200 sets the third target storage amount corresponding to the stable period as the target storage amount. Server 200 then transfers the subsequent processing to S214.

[0077] In S212, server 200 sets the fourth target storage amount corresponding to the normal period as the target storage amount. Server 200 then transfers the subsequent processing to S214.

[0078] In S214, server 200 outputs a hydrogen production command to hydrogen production equipment 300. Server 200 obtains the current storage amount from hydrogen storage equipment 302. If the obtained current storage amount is less than the set target storage amount, server 200 generates a hydrogen production command in a manner that produces an amount corresponding to the difference between the current storage amount and the target storage amount. Conversely, if the current storage amount is greater than the set target storage amount, server 200 does not generate a hydrogen production command and generates a hydrogen production command without producing hydrogen.

[0079] The following describes the actions of server 200 based on the above structure and flowchart. For example, consider the case where the disaster history record information has been updated.

[0080] In this case, it is determined that there is an update to the historical disaster information (yes in S100), so an emergency period is set (S102), and the pre-defined period preceding the emergency period is set as a preparation period (S104). Further, various power supply information is obtained (S106), and if it is determined that an update to the stable period is necessary (yes in S108), a stable period is set (S110), and a normal period is set (S112).

[0081] Therefore, if the current date is within an emergency period (in S200), the first target storage quantity is set as the target storage quantity (S202), and a hydrogen production command corresponding to the set target storage quantity is output to the hydrogen production equipment 300 (S214).

[0082] On the other hand, if the current date is not within the emergency period (No in S200) but within the preparation period (Yes in S204), then the second target storage quantity is set as the target storage quantity (S206), and the hydrogen production command corresponding to the set target storage quantity is output to the hydrogen production equipment 300 (S214).

[0083] Furthermore, if the current date is not within the preparation period (no in S204) but within the stable period (yes in S208), then the third target storage quantity is set as the target storage quantity (S210), and the hydrogen production command corresponding to the set target storage quantity is output to the hydrogen production equipment 300 (S214).

[0084] Furthermore, if the current date is not within a stable period but a normal period (No in S208), then the fourth target storage quantity is set as the target storage quantity (S212), and the hydrogen production instruction corresponding to the set target storage quantity is output to the hydrogen production equipment 300 (S214).

[0085] Therefore, since the target storage amount is set such that the amount of hydrogen α corresponding to the surplus power during the preparation period is greater than the amount of hydrogen β corresponding to the surplus power during the normal period, more hydrogen is stored as surplus power during the preparation period compared to the normal period.

[0086] As described above, the storage management system and method according to this embodiment require ensuring sufficient remaining power before an emergency during the preparation period. Therefore, by setting a target storage quantity such that the ratio of a first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during the preparation period is greater than the ratio of a second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining power during normal periods, an appropriate amount of hydrogen can be stored to cope with disasters. Therefore, a storage management system and method can be provided that appropriately manages the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage devices installed in an area where a microgrid is set up.

[0087] Furthermore, the fourth target storage amount during normal periods is a smaller value than the first, second, and third target storage amounts. Therefore, during normal periods, by reducing the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining power compared to other periods, it is possible to suppress the increase in power consumed by the hydrogen production equipment 300.

[0088] The following are examples of variations. In the above embodiments, the case of setting an emergency period based on historical disaster information was described. However, in addition to historical disaster information, emergency periods can also be set based on weather forecast information, and adjustments such as expansion or modification of the set emergency period can be made. Weather forecast information, for example, includes the predicted rainfall period for a specific area 1 based on the predicted path of a typhoon. For example, server 200 can set an emergency period by including the predicted rainfall period in the emergency period.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the example described is a fuel cell vehicle 2 that can drive by receiving power from the fuel cell, but it can also be a vehicle that can only use external power from the fuel cell, or a stationary fuel cell.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the example described is that the hydrogen produced in the hydrogen production equipment 300 is used in the fuel cell 3 mounted on the fuel cell vehicle 2. However, it can also be used in a stationary fuel cell based on or instead of the fuel cell 3.

[0091] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it was described that the period during which the power generation of the hydropower generation device 50 exceeds a threshold in each predetermined period is set as a stable period. However, it is also possible to set the period during which the power generation of the solar power generation device 12 exceeds a threshold in each predetermined period as a stable period, or the period during which the power generation of the wind power generation device 52 exceeds a threshold in each predetermined period as a stable period. Alternatively, it is also possible to set the period during which the sum of the power generation of the solar power generation device 12, the hydropower generation device 50, and the wind power generation device 52 exceeds a threshold in each predetermined period as a stable period.

[0092] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, it is described that an emergency period is set based on historical disaster information and a stable period is set based on historical power generation information. However, for example, an emergency period can also be set based on the disaster occurrence period predicted by AI (Artificial Intelligence) learning, and a stable period can be set based on the prediction of power generation changes based on AI learning.

[0093] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, it is described that at least a portion of the periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period (i.e., the period of the stable period is further removed) in the predetermined period is set as normal periods, but the stable period may also be omitted and all periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period may be set as normal periods.

[0094] Furthermore, the above-mentioned variations can also be implemented by appropriately combining all or part of them. While embodiments of the invention have been described, they should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of the invention is set forth in the claims, which include all modifications within the meaning and scope of their equivalents.

Claims

1. A storage management system, which manages the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage devices located within a specific area. A microgrid is established in the specific area. The microgrid includes power-consuming devices and power supply devices capable of supplying power to the power-consuming devices. The power supply devices include power generation devices capable of generating electricity using renewable energy and fuel cells capable of generating electricity using hydrogen stored in the storage device. A hydrogen production device that uses electricity to produce the hydrogen stored in the storage device is also provided in the specific area. The storage management system has the following features: A receiving device that acquires the storage quantity; An adjusting device regulates the amount of hydrogen produced in the manufacturing equipment in such a way that the amount of hydrogen stored in the storage device during a predetermined period becomes a target storage amount. The target storage capacity includes a baseline storage capacity and a hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electricity in the microgrid. Based on historical information related to past disasters, periods within the predetermined timeframe that are predicted to have a higher frequency of disasters than other periods are designated as emergency periods. The period preceding the emergency period in the predetermined period is designated as the preparation period. At least a portion of the predetermined periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period shall be designated as normal periods. The regulating device sets the target storage amount such that the ratio of a first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electrical power during the preparation period is greater than the ratio of a second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electrical power during the normal period.

2. The storage management system according to claim 1, wherein, The regulating device sets the target storage amount in such a way that the amount of hydrogen corresponding to the remaining electrical power is less during the normal period compared to other periods.

3. The storage management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The emergency period includes the period during which a disaster is predicted to occur in the specific area from the predetermined period.

4. A storage management method for managing the amount of hydrogen stored in hydrogen storage devices located within a specific area. A microgrid is established in the specific area. The microgrid includes power-consuming devices and power supply devices capable of supplying power to the power-consuming devices. The power supply devices include power generation devices capable of generating electricity using renewable energy and fuel cells capable of generating electricity using hydrogen stored in the storage device. A hydrogen production device that uses electricity to produce the hydrogen stored in the storage device is also provided in the specific area. The storage management method has the following characteristics: The steps to obtain the storage amount; The step of adjusting the amount of hydrogen produced in the manufacturing equipment in such a way that the amount of hydrogen stored in the storage device during a predetermined period is a target storage amount. The target storage capacity includes a baseline storage capacity and a hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electricity in the microgrid. It also includes the step of: setting a period in the predetermined period that is predicted to have a higher frequency of disaster occurrence than other periods, based on historical information related to past disasters; The step of setting the period earlier than the emergency period among the predetermined periods as the preparation period; The step of setting at least a portion of the predetermined periods other than the emergency period and the preparation period as normal periods; The step of setting the target storage amount in such a way that the ratio of a first hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electrical power during the preparation period is greater than the ratio of a second hydrogen quantity corresponding to the remaining electrical power during the normal period.

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