Server and power adjustment system

Abstract

Server (1) manages multiple power adjustment resources electrically connected to the power grid (PG). These power adjustment resources include power equipment (14). Power equipment (14) is installed in facilities (4, 5) and configured to supply power from vehicles (7, 8) to the power grid (PG) and charge vehicles (7, 8) from the power grid (PG). Upon receiving input from a user requesting a reservation for the use of facilities (4, 5), server (1) predicts the power supply and demand balance of the power grid (PG) on the reservation date and time for the use of facilities (4, 5). When server (1) predicts that a power adjustment (DR) will be implemented on the reservation date and time for the use of facilities (4, 5), it creates a utilization plan for facilities (4, 5) that includes vehicles (7, 8) using power equipment (14) to participate in the DR. Server (1) rewards the user if the user agrees to the utilization plan.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to servers and power regulation systems. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-129441 discloses a power management system for managing the power transmitted between a charging / discharging station capable of connecting multiple electric vehicles and a power grid. In this power management system, a server uses electric vehicles that are connected to the charging / discharging station during the power supply and demand adjustment period in the power grid to adjust the power transmitted between the charging / discharging station and the power grid. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To efficiently manage power grid adjustments, it is desirable to have the majority of electric vehicles connected to charging stations during these adjustments. To encourage participation in power grid adjustments, it is necessary to establish mechanisms that increase opportunities for electric vehicles to participate and actively reward users for their participation.

[0004] This disclosure was made to address the aforementioned issues, and its purpose is to facilitate vehicle participation in power regulation within the power grid.

[0005] (1) A server according to the first aspect of this disclosure manages multiple power adjustment resources electrically connected to a power grid. The multiple power adjustment resources include power equipment. The power equipment is installed in the facility and configured to supply power from vehicles to the power grid and charge vehicles from the power grid. The server has a processor and a memory storing programs executable by the processor. Upon receiving input from a user for reservation information to utilize the facility, the processor, according to the program, predicts the power supply and demand balance of the power grid on the reservation date and time for the facility's utilization. When the processor predicts that a demand response (DR) for adjusting the power supply and demand balance will be implemented on the reservation date and time, it generates a facility utilization plan, including vehicle use of power equipment to participate in the DR, and prompts the user. The processor rewards the user if the user agrees to the utilization plan.

[0006] Based on the above (1) configuration, when a user reserves the use of the facility, by providing the user with a utilization plan that includes enabling the vehicle to participate in DR (Dynamic Distribution) using the electrical equipment installed at the facility, the likelihood of the user's vehicle participating in DR can be increased. Furthermore, by providing rewards to users who agree to the aforementioned utilization plan, vehicle participation in DR can be encouraged. As a result, the number of vehicles participating in DR can be increased, thus enabling efficient power regulation within the power grid. Additionally, the use of the facility by users is encouraged for the purpose of providing rewards, thus increasing the number of users of the facility.

[0007] (2) In the above (1) configuration, the processor makes the utilization plan include information related to the time period of the vehicle's participation in DR and information related to the reward for that participation.

[0008] Based on the above (2) structure, users can choose whether to have their vehicles participate in DR by referring to the utilization plan prompted by the server and considering their own action arrangements and rewards for the reservation date and time.

[0009] (3) In the above configuration (1), the processor increases the reward when the vehicle is a leased vehicle compared to when the vehicle is owned by the user.

[0010] Based on the above (3) structure, it is possible to promote the use of facilities by users for the purpose of rewards, and to promote the use of rental vehicles.

[0011] (4) In the above (1) to (3), the incentive includes at least one of the following: incentives related to the use of the facility, incentives related to the use of other facilities around the facility, and incentives related to the use of public transportation.

[0012] Based on the above (4) configuration, it can promote the use of the facility by users for the purpose of reward, and can also promote the use of other facilities around the facility.

[0013] (5) In the configurations described in (1) to (3) above, the processor calculates the electrical power required for the vehicle to travel based on the predetermined travel distance of the vehicle obtained from the utilization plan. The processor sets the electrical power supplied from the power grid to the vehicle to be greater than or equal to the calculated electrical power.

[0014] Based on the above (5) configuration, at least the operation of vehicles during the use of the facility can be ensured.

[0015] (6) In the above configuration (5), when the vehicle participates in DR on the scheduled date and time and DR is the power supply from the vehicle to the power grid, the processor sets the power supplied from the power grid to the vehicle to be greater than the power required for the vehicle to run.

[0016] Based on the configuration described in (6) above, by configuring the vehicle to store electrical energy exceeding the amount required for the next trip when charging from the power grid, the vehicle can respond to DR requests while ensuring operation during facility utilization. Thus, the user can obtain rewards.

[0017] (7) In the above configuration (6), when DR supplies power from the vehicle to the power grid, the processor controls the power supply from the vehicle to the power grid within a range where the vehicle's charging amount is not lower than the calculated power amount.

[0018] Based on the configuration described in (7) above, it is possible to supply the surplus electrical power to the power grid while ensuring the electrical power required for vehicle operation. If a reward is set based on the electrical power supplied to the power grid, the user may be able to obtain a high reward.

[0019] (8) The power regulation system according to the second aspect of this disclosure includes multiple power regulation resources electrically connected to a power grid and a server for managing the multiple power regulation resources. The multiple power regulation resources include electrical equipment. The electrical equipment is installed in the facility and configured to supply power from vehicles to the power grid and charge vehicles from the power grid. Upon receiving input from a user for reservation information to utilize the facility, the server predicts the power supply and demand balance of the power grid on the reservation date and time. When the server predicts that a DR (Demand Adjustment) for adjusting the power supply and demand balance will be implemented on the reservation date and time, it creates a facility utilization plan and prompts the user, including the possibility of vehicles using electrical equipment to participate in the DR. If the user agrees to the utilization plan, the server awards a reward to the user.

[0020] Based on the above (8) configuration, when a user reserves the use of the facility, by providing the user with a utilization plan that includes enabling the vehicle to participate in DR (Dynamic Distribution) using the electrical equipment installed in the facility, the chances of the user's vehicle participating in DR can be increased. Furthermore, by providing rewards to users who agree to the above utilization plan, vehicle participation in DR can be encouraged. As a result, the number of vehicles participating in DR can be increased, thus enabling efficient power regulation in the power grid. In addition, the use of the facility by users for the purpose of rewards is encouraged, thus increasing the number of users of the facility.

[0021] According to this disclosure, it is possible to facilitate vehicles' participation in power regulation within the power grid. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements, wherein:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the general configuration of the power regulation system involved in the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the process associated with a reservation for the use of a facility that uses a user terminal.

[0025] Figure 3 This illustrates the process of creating and utilizing the plan. Figure 2 A flowchart of an example of S14).

[0026] Figure 4This shows the process for calculating the amount of electricity supplied to the vehicle when charging externally. Figure 3 A flowchart of an example of S147).

[0027] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the first example of the utilization plan.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a second example of the utilization plan. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0030] <Overall Composition of Power Regulation System>

[0031] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the general configuration of a power regulation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the power adjustment system 100 involved in the embodiment includes a server 1, a server 2, multiple vehicles 7 and 8, and multiple EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) 14.

[0033] The power system PG is a power grid constructed from power plants and transmission and distribution equipment (not shown). In this embodiment, the power company acts as both a power generation operator and a transmission and distribution operator. The power company is equivalent to a general transmission and distribution operator, responsible for the maintenance and management of the power system PG.

[0034] Server 2 belongs to the power company and is the computer that manages the power supply and demand balance of the power system PG. Server 2 is configured to communicate with Server 1. Server 2 requests power adjustments from Server 1 as needed. For example, when the power system PG has high power demand, Server 2 may request power supply from Server 1.

[0035] Server 1 is configured to utilize multiple power adjustment resources to respond to power adjustment requests from Server 2. Server 1 is a server managed by an aggregator. An aggregator is an electrical operator that aggregates multiple power adjustment resources, such as those related to a region or designated facilities, to provide energy management services. Server 1 corresponds to one embodiment of a "server".

[0036] Server 1 enables multiple power adjustment resources to function as virtual power plants (VPPs) through remote and integrated control. To achieve this integrated control, Server 1 can implement demand response (DR) for each power adjustment resource. Through DR, it requests power adjustments from the power system's power plant (PG) (e.g., power consumption promotion, power consumption suppression, or reverse power flow) from each power adjustment resource.

[0037] Server 1 includes a control device 10, a storage device 11, and a communication device 12. The control device 10 includes a processor configured to perform prescribed arithmetic operations. The storage device 11 includes a memory storing programs executed by the control device 10, and stores various information (mappings, formulas, parameters, etc.) used by the program. The communication device 12 includes a communication interface configured to communicate with external devices (other servers, vehicles, etc.).

[0038] Within area 110 managed by power conditioning system 100, multiple EVSEs 14 are installed. EVSE stands for Vehicle Power Supply Equipment. Each of the multiple EVSEs 14 is electrically connected to the power system PG. EVSEs 14 are configured to supply power to a vehicle when electrically connected to it. EVSEs 14 are also configured to receive power from the vehicle. EVSEs 14 are one of multiple power conditioning resources managed by server 1, corresponding to one embodiment of "power equipment".

[0039] Area 110 contains accommodation facilities 4 and entertainment facilities 5. Accommodation facilities 4 include hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, etc. Entertainment facilities 5 include amusement parks, theme parks, museums, zoos, aquariums, and nature parks, etc. The number of accommodation facilities 4 and entertainment facilities 5 in area 110 can be one or more.

[0040] The multiple EVSE 14s include EVSE 14 located in accommodation facility 4 and EVSE 14 located in recreation facility 5. These EVSE 14s may be located, for example, in the parking lot of accommodation facility 4 or recreation facility 5. The number of EVSE 14s located in each facility may be one or more.

[0041] The vehicles 7 and 8 may specifically include plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs), electric vehicles (EVs), and plug-in fuel cell vehicles. Vehicles 7 and 8 each include an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 70 and 80 for exchanging various information with the user. HMIs 70 and 80 may be, for example, touch-screen displays (not shown) of navigation systems.

[0042] Vehicles 7 and 8 are each configured to supply power from the electrical system PG to the vehicle via a charging cable connected to the EVSE 14 to the vehicle's input port (not shown). This method of power supply is also referred to as "external charging". Alternatively, vehicles 7 and 8 are each configured to supply power from the vehicle to the electrical system PG via a charging cable connected to the vehicle's output port (not shown). This method of power supply is also referred to as "external power supply".

[0043] Vehicle 7 is a vehicle owned by a user of accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5 (POV: Personally Owned Vehicle). Hereinafter, vehicle 7 is also referred to as "POV 7". Vehicle 8 is an operator vehicle managed by a vehicle service provider such as rental vehicle operator 3 or car-sharing operator. Hereinafter, vehicle 8 is also referred to as "rental vehicle 8". The server belonging to rental vehicle operator 3 is configured to enable bidirectional communication with server 1.

[0044] Power Regulation in Power Systems

[0045] As described above, in order to maintain the power supply and demand balance of the power system PG, server 2 requests power adjustments for the power system PG from server 1 as needed. Server 1 accepts the power adjustment requests and implements DR for multiple power adjustment resources, including EVSE 14.

[0046] EVSE 14 enables vehicles connected to EVSE 14 to perform power adjustments requested by server 1. Figure 1 In this example, POV 7 and the rental vehicle 8 can each participate in DR via external charging or external power supply. Vehicles participating in DR have permission from server 1 to remotely control the vehicles. With remote control of the vehicles permitted by server 1, server 1 controls EVSE 14 to perform power adjustments (charge promotion, charge suppression, or discharge) on the vehicle's power system PG. Thus, the vehicle can perform external charging or external power supply according to a DR participation request from server 1.

[0047] In the aforementioned power adjustment system 100, when a power adjustment request for the power system PG is received from the server 2, it is necessary for a majority of vehicles to participate in the DR (Dynamic Driving) process in order to perform power adjustment efficiently. In this embodiment, if users utilizing the accommodation facility 4 and the entertainment facility 5 can connect their vehicles to the EVSE 14, then those vehicles can participate in the DR.

[0048] Therefore, server 1 is configured as follows: upon receiving a reservation for accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5 from a user, and anticipating that a DR (Delivery Driving) will be implemented on the day of use, server 1 generates a facility utilization plan and prompts the user, including the user's vehicle (POV 7 or rental vehicle 8) using EVSE 14 to participate in the DR. Furthermore, server 1 is configured to award a reward to users who agree to the prompted utilization plan as compensation for participating in the DR.

[0049] <Facility reservation>

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, users who wish to utilize accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5 can use user terminal 6 to reserve the facilities. User terminal 6 is a terminal that users can operate. Users include those who possess POV 7 and those who do not. User terminal 6 accepts input from users. In this embodiment, a smartphone with a touch panel display is used as user terminal 6. User terminal 6 has a built-in computer. However, user terminal 6 is not limited to smartphones. For example, laptops, tablets, wearable devices, etc., can also be used as user terminal 6.

[0051] User terminal 6 is pre-registered with server 1 and configured to communicate bidirectionally with server 1. Application software for reserving facilities (hereinafter referred to as the "facility reservation application") is installed on user terminal 6. Users can use the facility reservation application to reserve facilities and create schedules for the day of use. User terminal 6 can exchange information with server 1 through the facility reservation application.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the process associated with a reservation for use of the facility using user terminal 6. This flowchart is repeatedly executed from the main routine (not shown) whenever predetermined conditions are met, or at predetermined intervals. Figure 2In the diagram, a series of processes performed by user terminal 6 are shown on the left, a series of processes performed by server 1 are shown in the center, and a series of processes performed by server 2 are shown on the right. Each step is implemented through software processing by user terminal 6, server 1, or server 2, but can also be implemented through hardware (circuit) set within user terminal 6, server 1, or server 2. Hereinafter, the steps will be abbreviated as S.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, in S01, user terminal 6 receives input related to facility usage reservations from the user. In S01, the user can activate the facility usage reservation application and input usage reservation information into user terminal 6. The usage reservation information includes information related to the facility to be used and the reservation date and time. The usage reservation information may also include the availability of POV 7, the availability of rental vehicle 8, information related to the departure point (e.g., the user's own home), the user's travel arrangements for the day of use, and the user's identification information (user ID).

[0054] User terminal 6, which has received user input related to the reservation information, sends the reservation information to server 1 via S02.

[0055] In S11, when server 1 receives the utilization reservation information from user terminal 6, it creates a facility utilization plan for the user who has operated on user terminal 6 based on the received utilization reservation information.

[0056] Specifically, in S12, server 1 requests server 2 to send information related to the power supply and demand forecast of the power system PG under the scheduled date and time.

[0057] In S21, Server 2 predicts the power supply and demand balance of the power system PG under the scheduled utilization date and time, based on the transmission request from Server 1. In S21, Server 2 predicts the power supply and demand balance of the power system PG under the scheduled utilization date and time based on information related to the actual power supply and demand performance in the power system PG and information related to the scheduled utilization date and time transmitted from Server 1. The actual power supply and demand performance information includes the shift in the power supply and demand balance in the power system PG and information related to the implementation history of DR. For example, Server 2 predicts the power supply and demand balance under the scheduled utilization date and time by referring to power supply and demand performance information under conditions similar to the scheduled utilization date and time in terms of season, weather, temperature, day of the week, etc. Furthermore, the weather and temperature information for the scheduled utilization date and time can be obtained from the meteorological bureau or other weather forecast services.

[0058] Server 2 sends the generated information related to the power supply and demand forecast of the power system PG to Server 1 via S22.

[0059] In S13, server 1 receives information related to the power supply and demand forecast of the power system PG from server 2. In S14, server 1 uses the received power supply and demand forecast information to create a utilization plan for the facilities. Figure 3 This illustrates the process of creating and utilizing the plan. Figure 2 A flowchart of an example of S14).

[0060] like Figure 3 As shown in S141, server 1 predicts the time period (hereinafter also referred to as "DR request period") for requesting participation in DR using the scheduled date and time, based on information related to the power supply and demand forecast of the power system PG. The request to participate in DR includes the content of the requested power adjustment (e.g., reducing DR or increasing DR) and the DR period (DR start time and DR end time). Increasing DR is essentially a DR that requests an increase in demand. However, when the power adjustment resource receiving the request is a power generation device, increasing DR sometimes also requests the power adjustment resource to suppress supply. On the other hand, reducing DR is a DR that requests to suppress demand or reverse the power flow.

[0061] In step S142, server 1 compares the scheduled date and time with the predicted DR request time period in S141 to determine whether the user's facility utilization time includes the DR request time period. In S142, a yes (affirmative) determination is made if at least a portion of the facility utilization time period includes the DR request time period. Conversely, a no (negative) determination is made if the facility utilization time period does not include the DR request time period or if there is no DR request time period on the utilization day (i.e., DR is not implemented on the utilization day).

[0062] If it is determined in S142 that the facility's utilization period does not include the DR request period (when S142 is negative), server 1 proceeds to S146 and sets the period for external charging of the vehicle (hereinafter also referred to as the "external charging period"). S146 is described later.

[0063] In contrast, if it is determined in S142 that the facility's utilization period includes the DR request period (S142 is the determination time), server 1 sets the period during which the user's vehicle can participate in DR (hereinafter also referred to as "DR participation period") in S143. In S143, the period during the facility's utilization period that overlaps with the DR request period can be set as the DR participation period.

[0064] Next, in S144, server 1 calculates the reward given to the user as compensation for participating in DR as a vehicle. The reward may include at least one of the following: discounts related to the use of accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5; discounts related to the use of other facilities around the facility; and discounts related to the use of public transportation. Discounts related to the use of accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5 may be, for example, discounts on the cost of using accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5. Discounts related to the use of other facilities may be, for example, coupons that can be used at shops around accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5. Discounts related to the use of public transportation may be, for example, discounts on tram or bus fares.

[0065] This encourages users seeking rewards to utilize accommodation facility 4, entertainment facility 5, and surrounding facilities, thus contributing to increased profits for each facility. Furthermore, it encourages users seeking rewards to participate in DR (Dynamic Driving) for their vehicles, allowing server 1 to efficiently adjust the power supply of the power system PG.

[0066] Furthermore, server 1 can adjust the rewards based on the type of vehicle participating in the DR (Driving Rewards). For example, if the vehicle participating in the DR is a rental vehicle 8, the reward can be increased compared to if the vehicle is a POV 7. This encourages users who are using the rental vehicle 8 for reward purposes, thus increasing the number of users of rental vehicle 8 while simultaneously increasing the number of users of accommodation facilities 4 and entertainment facilities 5. Therefore, this contributes to increasing the profits of the rental vehicle operator 3.

[0067] Server 1, via S145, explores the user's movement route if they move from the facility during the DR participation period. During the DR participation period, the vehicle is connected to EVSE 14 and cannot be used, so Server 1 explores movement routes using public transportation such as trams or buses. In S145, Server 1 explores movement routes based on the user's activity schedule included in the reservation information, pre-acquired map information of area 110, and the operation schedule of public transportation.

[0068] In S146, server 1 sets the external charging time period. In S146, server 1 can set the external charging time period within the time period during which the user uses the facility. However, if the facility's usage time period includes the DR participation time period, server 1 sets the external charging time period in a way that does not overlap with the DR participation time period. For example, if the user uses accommodation facility 4, server 1 can set the external charging time period during the accommodation when electricity costs are low (e.g., late at night).

[0069] Server 1 calculates the electrical power supplied from the power system PG to the vehicle during the external charging period via S147. In S147, Server 1 calculates the electrical power required for the vehicle to travel the next scheduled distance. The scheduled distance for the next trip can be determined based on the user's travel plan. Server 1 calculates the electrical power required to travel that scheduled distance.

[0070] Figure 4 This shows the process for calculating the amount of electricity supplied to the vehicle when charging externally. Figure 3 A flowchart of an example of S147).

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, in S1471, server 1 calculates the scheduled driving distance of the vehicle in the next trip after external charging based on the user's action schedule contained in the reservation information.

[0072] In S1472, server 1 calculates the electrical power required to travel the predetermined distance. In S1472, the electrical power can be calculated, for example, by dividing the predetermined distance (km) by the vehicle's energy consumption (km / kWh). Energy consumption can be based on actual performance data from the vehicle's (POV or rental vehicle) driving history, or it can be based on large datasets collected from vehicles of the same type.

[0073] In S1473, server 1 determines whether the vehicle is scheduled to participate in DR. If the facility's usage time includes the DR participation time, S1473 makes a yes determination; if the facility's usage time does not include the DR participation time, S1473 makes a no determination.

[0074] If it is determined that the vehicle is scheduled to participate in DR (when the determination is made in S1473), the server 1 then determines in S1474 whether the request to participate in DR is a request for external power supply.

[0075] If the request to participate in DR in S1474 is a request for external power supply (when it is determined in S1474), server 1 proceeds to S1475 and sets the power supplied to the vehicle during external charging to be greater than the power required for the next trip calculated in S1472.

[0076] On the other hand, if it is determined that the vehicle is not scheduled to participate in DR (when it is negative in S1473) or if the request to participate in DR is a request for external charging (when it is negative in S1474), the server 1 sets the power supplied to the vehicle during external charging to the power required for the next trip calculated in S1472 in S1476.

[0077] In this way, by configuring the vehicle to participate in DR (Driving Relay) upon request for external power supply, the vehicle can store electrical power exceeding the amount needed for the next trip while being externally charged, thus enabling the vehicle to respond to the DR request. As a result, the vehicle's user can obtain the aforementioned benefits.

[0078] On the other hand, by configuring the vehicle to participate in DR (Driving Relay) upon request for external charging, the vehicle stores the electrical power required for the next trip while being charged externally, allowing the vehicle to respond to DR requests within the charging range. This enables the vehicle's user to receive rewards. Furthermore, even if the user fails to connect the vehicle to EVSE 14 during the DR participation period, ensuring the vehicle can still operate because the electrical power required for the next trip is stored in the vehicle.

[0079] return Figure 3 Server 1 creates a utilization plan for the user's facilities, which includes the DR participation time period set in S143, the movement route explored in S145, the external charging time period set in S146, and the method of supplying electric power to the vehicle calculated in S147.

[0080] return Figure 2 Server 1 sends the generated exploit plan to user terminal 6. In S03, user terminal 6 receives the exploit plan from server 1. In S04, user terminal 6 displays the received exploit plan on its touch panel display, thereby prompting the user with the exploit plan.

[0081] In step S05, user terminal 6 determines whether the user has agreed to the usage plan. If the touch panel display has received the user's action of selecting a usage plan, step S05 makes a yes determination.

[0082] If the user agrees to the usage plan (when S05 determines "yes"), user terminal 6 proceeds to S06, where the rewards set in the usage plan are granted to the user. In S06, these rewards may include, for example, discount coupons for the usage fees of accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5, vouchers for use at other facilities (shops, etc.) around accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5, and discount coupons for train or bus fares. Conversely, if the user does not agree to the usage plan (when S05 determines "no"), no rewards are granted, and therefore no discount coupons are issued.

[0083] <Example of using the plan>

[0084] Next, an example (showing example) of the utilization plan obtained through the above processing will be explained. The utilization plan when a user makes a reservation to use accommodation facility 4 will be used as an example for explanation.

[0085] (First example shown)

[0086] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the first example of a utilization plan. The first example shows utilization plan A in the case of using POV 7 during movement between the departure point (one's own home) and accommodation facility 4.

[0087] Plan A includes the utilization date and time, event, power supply and demand information for POV 7, and incentive information. Figure 5 In the example, the usage period for accommodation facility 4 is 2 days. The activities on the first day include traveling from one's home to accommodation facility 4 and sightseeing around accommodation facility 4. Public transportation was used for the travel to the surrounding facilities.

[0088] The electricity supply and demand information for the first day includes information on the DR request period and the DR participation period. The DR request period is the time during which vehicles can request to participate in the DR, and it is predicted based on information related to the electricity supply and demand forecasts of the power system PG. The DR participation period is the time during which vehicles can participate in the DR, and it is set based on the DR request period and the utilization period of accommodation facility 4. Figure 5 In the example, the DR participation time period is set after the POV 7 arrives at accommodation facility 4.

[0089] During the DR period, users cannot use POV 7, so the route using public transportation will be displayed. Furthermore, as rewards for participating in DR, there are discount coupons for public transportation fares, vouchers usable at nearby facilities (shops on Avenue A and Market B), and discount coupons for accommodation.

[0090] The first day's electricity supply and demand information also included information on external charging periods and the amount of electricity supplied to vehicles during those periods. Figure 5 In this example, the external charging period is set to the time the user stays at accommodation facility 4, specifically during the late night when electricity rates are low. The power supplied to POV 7 during external charging is set to be greater than or equal to the power required for POV 7's planned travel distance the following day. The planned travel distance of POV 7 the following day is equivalent to the travel distance from accommodation facility 4 to the user's home. Furthermore, if POV 7 participates in DR in response to an external power supply request the following day, in order to supply power from POV 7 to the power system PG, the power supplied to POV 7 during external charging is set to be greater than the power required for travel from accommodation facility 4 to the user's home.

[0091] The activities on the second day included sightseeing around accommodation facility 4 (Park C) and traveling from accommodation facility 4 to one's own home. Similar to the first day, public transportation was also used for traveling to the surrounding facilities on the second day.

[0092] The electricity supply and demand information for the second day includes the DR request period and the DR participation period. As a reward for participating in the DR, participants receive discount coupons for public transport fares and admission to the facility (Park C).

[0093] Furthermore, if POV 7 participates in DR (Driving Response) in response to an external power supply request the following day, during the DR participation period, Server 1 can control the power supply from POV 7 to the power system PG, ensuring that the charging level of POV 7 is not less than the power required for travel from accommodation facility 4 to its home. This allows for the supply of surplus power to the power system PG while ensuring the power required for POV 7's operation. With rewards set based on the power supplied to the power system PG, users may be able to obtain higher rewards.

[0094] (Second display example)

[0095] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a second example of the utilization plan. The second example illustrates utilization plan B in the case of using public transportation (Shinkansen) for movement from the departure station (Station A) to the arrival station (Station B), and using rental vehicles 8 for movement from the arrival station (Station B) to entertainment facility 5 (C zone) and from entertainment facility 5 to accommodation facility 4.

[0096] Plan B includes the date and time of use, the event, the electricity supply and demand information for rental vehicle 8, and incentive information. Figure 6 In the example, the usage period for accommodation facility 4 is 2 days. The events on the first day include the movement from the departure station (Station A) to entertainment facility 5 (Area C), the use of entertainment facility 5, and the movement from entertainment facility 5 to accommodation facility 4.

[0097] The electricity supply and demand information for the first day includes information on the DR request period and the DR participation period. Figure 6 In this example, the participation period for DR is set from the time the rental vehicle 8 arrives at the entertainment facility 5 until the time the rental vehicle 8 departs from the entertainment facility 5. As a reward for participating in DR, it includes discount coupons for the usage fee of the rental vehicle 8 and discount coupons for the admission fee of the entertainment facility 5.

[0098] The first day's electricity supply and demand information also included information on external charging periods and the amount of electricity supplied to vehicles during those periods. Figure 6In this example, the external charging period is set to the time the user stays at accommodation facility 4, specifically during the late night when electricity is cheap. The power supplied to rental vehicle 8 during external charging is set to be greater than or equal to the power required for the planned travel distance of rental vehicle 8 the following day. The planned travel distance of rental vehicle 8 the following day is equivalent to the sum of the travel distance from accommodation facility 4 to the surrounding facility (D Market) and the travel distance from that facility to B Station. If the vehicle participates in DR (Driving Driving) in response to an external power supply request on the following day, the power supplied to rental vehicle 8 during the external charging period is set to be greater than the power required for the travel distance on the following day.

[0099] The events on the second day included a trip to the facility near accommodation facility 4 (D Market), a tour of that facility, a trip from that facility to Station B, and a trip from Station B to Station A.

[0100] The electricity supply and demand information for the second day includes the DR request period and the DR participation period. As a reward for participating in DR, vouchers (such as discount coupons for dining and shopping) that can be used at the facility (D market) are granted.

[0101] Furthermore, if rental vehicle 8 participates in DR (Dedicated Delivery) in response to an external power supply request on the second day, during the DR participation period, server 1 can control the power supply from rental vehicle 8 to the power system PG, ensuring that the charging level of rental vehicle 8 is not less than the power required for travel from facility (D market) to station B. This allows for the supply of surplus power to the power system PG while ensuring the power required for rental vehicle 8's operation. With rewards set based on the power supplied to the power system PG, users may be able to obtain higher rewards.

[0102] As explained above, according to the server 1 and power regulation system 100 of this embodiment, when a user reserves the use of accommodation facility 4 or entertainment facility 5, by prompting the user with a utilization plan that includes having the user's vehicle participate in DR (Dynamic Power Regulation), the chances of the user's vehicle participating in DR can be increased. Furthermore, by providing rewards to users who agree to the aforementioned utilization plan, vehicle participation in DR can be encouraged. Therefore, the number of vehicles participating in DR can be increased, thus enabling efficient power regulation in the power grid.

[0103] In addition, by rewarding users who agree to participate in DR, the use of accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5 is encouraged by users who want to get rewards, thus increasing the number of users of accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5.

[0104] Furthermore, as a reward, users will be granted at least one of the following: discounts related to the use of accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5, discounts related to the use of other facilities around accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5, and discounts related to the use of public transportation. This will also encourage users to use other facilities around accommodation facility 4 and entertainment facility 5 for the purpose of reward.

[0105] Furthermore, when the vehicle used by the user is a rental vehicle 8, the reward is increased compared to when the vehicle is a POV 7, thereby promoting the utilization of rental vehicle 8.

[0106] It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of this disclosure is not defined by the description of the above embodiments, but by the claims, which are intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A server for managing multiple power regulation resources electrically connected to a power grid, wherein, The plurality of power regulation resources include power equipment installed in the facility and configured to supply power from the vehicle to the power grid and charge the vehicle from the power grid. The server has the following features: processor; and A memory that stores programs that can be executed by the processor. The processor is configured to, upon receiving input from a user of the vehicle for reservation information to utilize the facility, perform the following processing according to the procedure: The power supply and demand balance of the power grid is predicted for the scheduled dates and times of the facility's utilization. When it is predicted that a demand response (DR) to adjust the power supply and demand balance will be implemented on the scheduled date and time, a utilization plan for the facility will be created and communicated to the user, including the scenario where the vehicle uses the power equipment to participate in the DR. If the user agrees to the usage plan, a reward will be given to the user. The processor performs the following processing: Based on the reservation information, explore the vehicle's travel route using public transportation during the time period it participates in the DR (Dedicated Traffic Assistance) program. The utilization plan includes information related to the time period during which the vehicle participates in the DR, information related to the rewards for participation, and information related to the discovered movement route.

2. The server according to claim 1, wherein, The processor increases the reward when the vehicle is a rental vehicle compared to when the vehicle is owned by the user.

3. The server according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The incentives include at least one of the following: discounts related to the use of the facility, discounts related to the use of other facilities in the vicinity of the facility, and discounts related to the use of public transportation.

4. The server according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: Based on the vehicle's predetermined travel distance obtained from the utilization plan, the electric power required for the vehicle's operation is calculated. The electrical power supplied from the power grid to the vehicle is set to be greater than or equal to the calculated electrical power.

5. The server according to claim 4, wherein, When the vehicle participates in the DR on the scheduled date and time, and the DR is supplying power from the vehicle to the power grid, The processor sets the electrical power supplied from the power grid to the vehicle to be greater than the electrical power required for the vehicle to operate.

6. The server according to claim 5, wherein, When the DR is supplying power from the vehicle to the power grid, the processor controls the power supply from the vehicle to the power grid within a range where the vehicle's charge level is not lower than the calculated power level.

7. A power regulation system, comprising: Multiple power adjustment resources, which are electrically connected to the power grid; and The server manages the multiple power adjustment resources. The plurality of power regulation resources include power equipment installed in the facility and configured to supply power from the vehicle to the power grid and charge the vehicle from the power grid. The server is configured to process the following upon receiving input from a user of the vehicle for reservation information to utilize the facility: The power supply and demand balance of the power grid is predicted for the scheduled dates and times of the facility's utilization. When it is predicted that a demand response (DR) to adjust the power supply and demand balance will be implemented on the scheduled date and time, a utilization plan for the facility will be created and communicated to the user, including the scenario where the vehicle uses the power equipment to participate in the DR. If the user agrees to the usage plan, a reward will be given to the user. The server performs the following processing: Based on the reservation information, explore the vehicle's travel route using public transportation during the time period it participates in the DR (Dedicated Traffic Assistance) program. The utilization plan includes information related to the time period during which the vehicle participates in the DR, information related to the rewards for participation, and information related to the discovered movement route.

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