Control of a local network sector for implementing a local energy community with a timetable

Abstract

The invention relates inter alia to a method, carried out by a control device, the method comprising: obtaining an item of timetable information indicative of an amount of electrical energy which is to be transmitted at at least one coupling point between a local network area and a public power supply network for a pre-defined period of time, a first method of transmission of the electrical energy within the local network area deviating at least temporarily from a pre-defined second method of transmission of the public power supply network, and a galvanic isolation of the local network area from the public power supply network at the coupling point being implemented; and controlling and / or regulating one or more elements which are comprised by the local network area, the control and / or regulation taking place at least partially based upon the timetable information obtained. The invention further relates to a device for carrying out and / or controlling said method, to a system comprising one or more devices for carrying out and / or controlling said method, and to a computer program for carrying out and / or controlling said method by means of a processor.

Description

Area

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to the control of a local network area for the realization of a Local Energy Community (LEC). background

[0002] Local Energy Communities are independent supply units that can receive economic support in the future according to the Winter Package.

[0003] Local Energy Centers (LECs) comprise one or more power generation facilities and one or more loads (e.g., consumers). LECs form a local grid area with a connection point to a higher-level, public power grid, enabling the exchange of electrical energy between the LEC and the public grid. Thus, the public grid primarily serves as a backup for the local grid area, ensuring the LEC can be supplied in cases of over- or under-load.

[0004] To prevent the public electricity grid from being unnecessarily affected by such a Local Energy Control (LEC), the LEC must comply with strict requirements, particularly to avoid jeopardizing the stability of the public electricity grid. This makes the establishment and expansion of such LECs expensive and complex. EP 3 048 687 A1 discloses a method for controlling an electrical power distribution network. XP031957117 discloses a method for controlling PV systems. XP011118252 describes topologies for single-phase inverters for distributed generators. XP031730434 describes distributed energy resources in microgrids. WO 2014 / 067557 A1 discloses a method for regulating a power supply network. EP 1 933 441 A1 discloses a method for controlling a microgrid. Summary of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0005] It would be desirable to be able to operate such LECs with the simplest possible technical specifications in order to make them as simple as possible in terms of structure and cost, or to simplify the LECs.

[0006] According to a first exemplary aspect of the invention, a method is disclosed, carried out by a control device, the method comprising the following: Received from a timetable information indicative of a quantity of electrical energy to be transmitted at at least one connection point between a local grid area and a public electricity grid for a predefined period of time, wherein a first transmission method of the electrical energy within the local grid area differs at least temporarily from a predefined second transmission method of the public electricity grid, wherein galvanic isolation of the local grid area from the public electricity grid is realized at the connection point; and control and / or regulation of one or more elements encompassed by the local grid area, wherein the control and / or regulation is carried out at least partially based on the received timetable information.

[0007] According to a second exemplary aspect of the invention, a device is disclosed which is configured for carrying out and / or controlling the method according to the first aspect of the invention, or which comprises respective means for carrying out and / or controlling the steps of the method according to the first aspect of the invention. In this case, either all steps of the method can be controlled, or all steps of the method can be carried out, or one or more steps can be controlled and one or more steps can be carried out. One or more of the means can also be carried out and / or controlled by the same unit. For example, one or more of the means can be formed by one or more processors.

[0008] The device according to the second aspect of the present invention is, in particular, a component (e.g., a device) of the local network area (e.g., comprised of or operationally (e.g., electrically) connected to the at least one coupling point). Alternatively or additionally, the device according to the second aspect of the present invention is connected via communication technology to at least one element of the local network area (e.g., to a generating unit and / or a load of the local network area). In this case, the device according to the second aspect of the present invention is, for example, a server.

[0009] According to a third exemplary aspect of the invention, a device is disclosed comprising at least one processor and at least one memory containing program code, wherein the memory and the program code are configured to cause the at least one processor to induce a device (for example, the device with the processor and the memory) to execute and / or control at least the method according to the first aspect of the invention. It is possible to either control all steps of the method, or execute all steps of the method, or control one or more steps and execute one or more steps.

[0010] According to a fourth exemplary aspect of the invention, a system is disclosed comprising one or more devices configured for carrying out and / or controlling the method according to the first aspect of the invention, or comprising means for carrying out and / or controlling the steps of the method according to the first aspect of the invention. It is possible to either control all steps of the method, or to carry out all steps of the method, or to control one or more steps and carry out one or more steps.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the system according to the fourth exemplary aspect of the present invention comprises: at least one device according to the second aspect of the present invention; and one or more controllable and / or adjustable elements which are connected to a public power grid via at least one connection point; wherein the at least one device and the one or more elements form a local grid area.

[0012] According to a fifth exemplary aspect of the invention, a computer program is disclosed which includes program instructions that cause a processor to execute and / or control the method according to the first aspect of the invention when the computer program is running on the processor. For the purposes of this specification, a processor shall be understood to include, but is not limited to, control units, microprocessors, microcontrol units such as microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The process can either control all steps of the method, execute all steps of the method, or control and execute one or more steps. The computer program can, for example, be distributed via a network such as the Internet, a telephone or mobile network, and / or a local area network.The computer program can be at least partially software and / or firmware of a processor. It can also be at least partially implemented as hardware. The computer program can be stored, for example, on a computer-readable storage medium, such as a magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, optical, and / or other type of storage medium. The storage medium can be part of the processor, for example, a (non-volatile or volatile) program memory of the processor or a part thereof. The storage medium can be, for example, physical, i.e., tangible, and / or non-transient.

[0013] These five aspects of the present invention exhibit, among other things, the following – partly exemplary – properties.

[0014] For the purposes of this document, a transmission method ("first" or "second transmission method") in which the local grid area and / or the public electricity grid is operated refers in particular to whether electrical energy is transmitted in the local grid area and / or the public electricity grid using direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), or three-phase AC transmission methods. The respective transmission methods can differ from one another in terms of the grid frequency used (also referred to as the nominal frequency; this applies only to AC and three-phase AC transmission methods), the voltage, active and / or reactive power, to name just a few non-limiting examples. It is understood that further such parameters, which are related to the electrical properties of the energy to be transmitted in the local grid area and / or the public electricity grid, can further characterize the transmission method used.

[0015] The public electricity grid is typically operated in the low-voltage and / or medium-voltage distribution networks using alternating current or three-phase current transmission at a predefined voltage level. The low-voltage distribution network, for example, usually has a significantly lower voltage level (e.g., 400 V) than the medium-voltage distribution network (e.g., 10 kV, 20 kV, or 30 kV).

[0016] For the purposes of this document, galvanic isolation of the local network area from the public power grid means, in particular, that a physical element is installed at at least one connection point to enable galvanic isolation. Thus, when implemented, there is no electrical line (e.g., a power line directly connecting the local network area to the public power grid) between the local network area and the public power grid. Nevertheless, it is possible for electrical power to be exchanged between the local network area and the public power grid. Suitable elements are explained in detail below in this specification.

[0017] The present device allows for a significantly more generous interpretation of the technical specifications for the local grid area, meaning, in particular, greater flexibility and tolerance compared to the requirements of the public power grid, which would otherwise have to be fully met. Due to the galvanic isolation of the local grid area from the public power grid, the stability of the public power grid is not jeopardized by the operating parameters of the local grid area, which can sometimes differ considerably from those of the public grid. As a further technical benefit, this solution significantly simplifies control procedures for elements within the local grid area, since there is no longer any need to adhere to parameters specified, for example, by the public power grid.

[0018] A clear distinction from the higher-level power grid can be achieved through galvanic isolation at at least one connection point (e.g., a medium-voltage connection point to a local distribution network). This galvanic isolation simplifies the technical specifications for the local network area, such as a load efficiency class (LEC), or simplifies them compared to the public power supply. This allows the use of more cost-effective components, as these do not have to meet the sometimes stringent requirements of the public power grid. Furthermore, technical parameters (especially frequency and voltage) of the local network area can be modified, deviated from, or used dynamically in such a way that the control procedures to be implemented in the local network area are simplified. Additionally, galvanic isolation allows, for example, the frequency to be used as a local control parameter for power balancing.

[0019] The local network area created by galvanic isolation from the public power grid can, on the one hand, ensure the implementation of a timetable represented by the timetable information (which is specified, for example, by the operator of the public power grid), and on the other hand, carry out decentralized control and / or regulation of the elements of the local network area independently of the public power grid.

[0020] The public electricity grid is, for example, a high-, medium-, and / or low-voltage network. The public electricity grid is also referred to as a distribution network.

[0021] The local grid area is, for example, self-sufficient. Such a local grid area is, for example, at least part of a LEC. Such an LEC is, for example, a residential area and includes all energy-related elements or infrastructure of the residential area.

[0022] Such a local grid area is characterized in particular by the fact that there is a spatial proximity between the generation and consumption of the generated energy, for example within the local grid area.

[0023] The local grid area comprises, for example, one or more elements. Such an element is, for example, a generating facility or plant (e.g., a (micro) combined heat and power plant, wind turbine, photovoltaic system, gas and steam generator, or the like—i.e., a facility suitable for generating electrical energy) and / or a load (e.g., consumers connected to (electricity) lines, such as electrical equipment (heat pumps, household appliances (e.g., refrigerators and / or washing machines), consumer electronics, to name just a few non-limiting examples)) and / or a storage device (e.g., stationary storage systems, electric vehicles). In particular, one or more elements that exhibit a higher degree of controllability (e.g., heat pumps, stationary storage systems, electric vehicles) enable extensive control and / or regulation of these elements encompassed by the local grid area, according to exemplary aspects of the present subject matter.In particular, those elements within the local grid area that constitute large controllable units are subject to controllability and / or regulation. This includes, in particular, those elements that consume and / or generate a significant percentage of electrical energy within the local grid area, such as generation facilities, heat pumps, stationary storage systems, and / or electric vehicles, to name just a few non-limiting examples. If only these aforementioned elements of the local grid area are controllable and / or regulationable, efficient control and / or regulation of the local grid area can already be achieved according to the exemplary configurations described in this document.

[0024] For example, the local grid area can comprise several energy generation plants (e.g., each configured as a photovoltaic system), each belonging to the homeowner on whose roof they are installed—to name just one non-limiting example. The electrical lines connecting the elements of the local grid area may be jointly owned by the LEC or be municipal property—to name just another non-limiting example. Furthermore, the at least one connection point between the local grid area and the public electricity grid is not fixed but can vary, or be changed, depending on requirements and / or needs, where possible.

[0025] The elements encompassed by the local grid area are at least partially, preferably 100%, controllable and / or regulated. For example, the elements encompassed by the local grid area that are configured as generation facilities are controllable and / or regulated in such a way that the electrical energy they generate is controllable and / or regulated. For instance, the maximum possible generation capacity of a particular or all generation facilities within the local grid area can be set, reduced, or even completely shut down. A similar approach applies to the elements encompassed by the local grid area that are configured as loads (e.g., consumers). Their consumption can be reduced or they can be switched off entirely, to name just a few non-limiting examples of control and / or regulation.

[0026] The elements of the local grid area are or include at least controllable and / or adjustable loads that can prevent any feedback / schedule deviation from the public supply via the public electricity grid in the sense of a balance shift (e.g., by controlling the loads: causing increased or decreased consumption, or switching off load(s) completely, to name just a few non-limiting examples). Typical implementations will therefore include, for example, either 100% controllable loads or a combination of loads, possibly storage, and controllable generation units as elements of the local grid area.

[0027] A corresponding controllable and / or adjustable load within the local grid area could, for example, be a heating application that is capable of storage and controllable, allowing the process to be interrupted. To name just a few non-limiting examples, such heating applications include, for example, operating an immersion heater, a night storage heater, a heat pump, a cooling generator, an air conditioner, or similar devices. A corresponding controllable and / or adjustable load within the local grid area could, for example, be an intermediate size between such a heating application and a conventional load that can simply be switched on and off. This could, for example, be a load from areas where controllability and / or regulation is possible, such as in the areas of (e.g., lithium-ion) batteries, where the design of charging processes is possible (e.g., charging an electric vehicle).

[0028] The at least one connection point is, in particular, an element that is shared by both the local grid area and the (public) electricity grid. This could, for example, be a shared power electronic component that ensures coupling for the transmission of electrical power between the local grid area and the public electricity grid.

[0029] The timetable information includes or represents, for example, a list of values ​​containing at least one parameter. Alternatively or additionally, the timetable information includes or represents, for example, one or more individual values ​​as parameters, which can be transmitted, for example, as a group or individually. Furthermore, the timetable information is, for example, indicative of a specification for at least one parameter of the local network area or the upstream network (e.g., public electricity grid) or a neighboring local network area. This at least one parameter is, for example, part of the list of values ​​or represents an individual value. For example, according to the timetable information, the specification for at least one parameter at at least one connection point of the local network area to the upstream network (e.g.,public electricity grid) or the neighboring local grid area, so that at least one parameter can be recorded (e.g. measured) at the at least one connection point.

[0030] The schedule information represents, for example, typical metering cycles used by energy supply companies (ESCs), such as durations of 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, or longer. This schedule information represents, for example, surpluses or deficits of electrical energy that were traded according to the balancing energy market and were to be fed into the grid and / or consumed by loads connected to the grid during the corresponding metering cycle. The local grid area accordingly provides the energy to be fed into the grid or consumes the corresponding energy from the public grid.

[0031] The timetable information is obtained, for example, by being received from a communication interface included by the at least one control unit. The timetable information is transmitted (e.g., sent) from a network control center of a public electricity grid to the at least one control unit, and then received by the device according to the second aspect.

[0032] Control and / or regulation is carried out, for example, by appropriately controlling and / or regulating the (controllable) elements of the local network area. For instance, control information can be determined by the control unit, e.g., at least partially based on the timetable information. This determined control information can then be output (e.g., transmitted) to the corresponding element to be controlled or regulated (e.g., load, generation unit, energy storage, to name just a few non-limiting examples), so that the corresponding element is regulated or controlled. The output of the control information can, for example, be achieved via a communication interface provided by the control unit.In the event that several elements of the local network area are to be controlled and / or regulated, for example several corresponding control information pieces - one for each of the several elements - can be determined and then output to the corresponding element of the local network area.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment in accordance with all aspects of the invention, the timetable information is obtained from a central facility of the public power grid, for example, by this central facility sending the timetable information to the control unit. This central facility of the public power grid can, for example, be a server. The server can, for example, be part of a network control center. The network control center monitors, controls, and / or regulates the public power grid, in particular to ensure the supply from the public power grid. Particular attention is paid to ensuring that the nominal frequency of the public power grid is balanced—in the sense of frequency control—and thus kept as constant as possible. Furthermore, safeguards are in place, for example, against local power overloads in the event of a local fault and / or during planned maintenance work.If the actual nominal frequency deviates too much from the target nominal frequency of the public power grid, an interruption of the supply from the public power grid may occur.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment according to the second aspect, the device is arranged in close proximity to, or exhibits a spatial proximity to, the controllable and / or regulating elements encompassed by the local network area, such that no elements of the public electricity grid are arranged between them.

[0035] For the purposes of this document, the terms and phrases "spatial proximity" and "spatial proximity" mean that the device is located within a geographical radius of 10, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 km or less of at least one other element that is part of the local network area, preferably all elements of the local network area.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, the first transmission method of the local network area is a direct current, alternating current or three-phase current transmission method.

[0037] In the event that the local grid area is operated using an alternating current or three-phase transmission method, the local grid area will be operated with a defined or adjustable grid frequency.

[0038] The network frequency of the local network area is also referred to as the nominal frequency of the local network area in the following sections of this specification. The network frequency is uniform within the local network area. Except for minor control-related deviations from the nominal value, the network frequency is particularly constant over time.

[0039] In the event that the local grid area is operated using a direct current transmission method, the local grid area is operated with a defined or adjustable voltage level or voltage.

[0040] Furthermore, different voltages (e.g., 230 V, 400 V, 800 V, to name just a few non-limiting examples) can be supplied to consumers at one or more taps provided by the local grid. Voltages from the local grid can be supplied at different levels at various taps, in alternating current, three-phase current, and direct current, by using AC and / or rectifiers.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, the method further comprises, in the case that the first transmission method is an alternating current or three-phase current transmission method: Determining at least one control parameter with which at least one network frequency of the local network area is changed, wherein the at least one control parameter is output so that the network frequency of the local network area is changed.

[0042] Adjusting the grid frequency enables control mechanisms within the local grid area, which may operate according to the P(U) approach, for example. Further details are described below in this specification.

[0043] The at least one control parameter can also include other technical quantities, so that these quantities can be adjusted accordingly within the local network area by controlling and / or regulating one or more elements. Such technical quantities, which can be included or represented by the at least one control parameter, include, for example, harmonic parameters, short-circuit power parameters, or the like, to name just a few non-limiting examples.

[0044] Outputting the control parameter, for example, causes the network frequency to be adjusted or set. This output can be achieved, for instance, by transmitting control information to at least one element of the local network area. Transmission can occur via a communication network, such as the internet, a local area network (LAN), a wireless communication network (e.g., according to the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and / or Bluetooth standard), a mobile network (e.g., according to the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), or Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard), or a (local) radio solution (e.g., according to the Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) specification), to name just a few non-limiting examples.It is understood that this presupposes that those elements of the local network area which are to communicate with each other include one or more communication interfaces designed for such communication or are connectable to them.

[0045] The at least one control parameter of the local network area can further include or represent additional parameters, such as current, voltage, active and / or reactive power, or similar parameters. These parameters of the at least one control parameter can, for example, be set within the local network area so that, for instance, target values ​​specified in the timetable information are maintained at the at least one connection point.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, several coupling points are formed between the public power grid and the local grid area, wherein the adjustment of the grid frequency of the local grid area is carried out at least partially based on the timetable information obtained for the several coupling points.

[0047] The local network area can also have multiple connection points to the public power grid, as described in exemplary embodiments according to all aspects of the present invention in this description. Furthermore, the local network area can also be operated autonomously, i.e., independently of the (higher-level) public power grid. The local network area can be operated autonomously from the public power grid, at least temporarily, i.e., for a predefined period of time.

[0048] Electrical energy can be transferred between the local grid area and the public electricity grid, or vice versa, via at least two connection points. It is understood that the term "multiple connection points" also encompasses more than two connection points within the meaning of this document.

[0049] The at least one control unit controls and / or regulates, for example, elements encompassed by the multiple connection points or the elements of the local network area in such a way that, at the multiple connection points, for example according to the timetable information, certain additional or reduced demands for electrical energy from the public electricity grid are transmitted accordingly.

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, the at least one control device is operationally connected to or encompassed by the at least one coupling point. The at least one control device is, for example, electrically connected to the at least one coupling point, e.g., via an electrical conductor.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, galvanic isolation from the coupling point is realized or included, wherein the galvanic isolation is realized in particular by means of a power electronic converter or a buck or boost converter.

[0052] Such a power electronic converter is, for example, a power electronic inverter, which is located, for instance, downstream of a local distribution substation. Such a buck or boost converter is, for example, located directly at the connection point (e.g., the medium-voltage connection point of a local distribution network). The at least one control unit can, for example, comprise the electronic converter or a buck or boost converter.

[0053] Galvanic isolation makes it possible to comply with required conditions on the side of the public power grid, e.g. to maintain the stability of the public power grid, while at the same time allowing a violation of these conditions on the side of the local network area without affecting the public power grid.

[0054] A conventional distribution transformer is generally unsuitable for such galvanic isolation because, for example, it does not allow frequency adjustment, exhibits a local increased frequency deviation, cannot meet changed requirements for short-circuit power, and / or is susceptible to harmonics that sometimes occur, to name just a few non-limiting examples.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, a voltage change in the local network area is further adjusted and / or compensated by means of at least one control parameter, wherein the voltage change is effected in particular by storing or releasing electrical energy into or from one or more storage devices encompassed by the local network area, such as a buffer storage device.

[0056] The buffer storage system is, for example, in the form of a battery. By storing electrical energy generated by a power generation unit in the storage system, the stored electrical energy can be released at a later time for consumption by a consumer (e.g., a load) within the local grid area. Furthermore, electrical energy stored in the storage system can also be transferred to the public power grid via at least one connection point, and vice versa.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, electrical energy is transferred at least partially between the local network area and the public power grid via the at least one coupling point as a transfer point, based on the timetable information, so that a setpoint encompassed or represented by the timetable information is set at the transfer point by means of a voltage-dependent active power control.

[0058] The timetable information represents, for example, a target power value (P-target value) that should be maintained at at least one coupling point. This target power value can be defined, for example, for a predefined time period (e.g., measurement cycles typical for railway undertakings).

[0059] For example, at least one control parameter can define current and / or voltage parameters, whereby at least one control parameter is determined, or is determined, at least partially based on the schedule information. The schedule information represents, for example, one or more setpoints (e.g., limit values) for voltage, current, (grid) frequency, active power, and / or reactive power, to name just a few non-limiting examples, which are to be balanced (e.g., adjusted) at a specific connection point (or connection points in the case that a multitude of connection points (e.g., at least two connection points) exist between the local grid area and the public power grid).

[0060] This allows active power and / or voltage control to take place at at least one coupling point at any time, in accordance with the timetable information, by the elements encompassed by the local network area.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, a control mechanism can be implemented according to the P(U) approach, such that, for example, a drop in voltage at at least one connection point is interpreted as a consumption signal. Based on this consumption signal, which is indicative of a certain amount of electrical energy, one or more storage devices within the local grid area can be controlled and / or regulated, so that electrical energy is discharged or stored accordingly in one or more storage devices.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, the at least one coupling point provides several different direct current voltages for use by the local grid area.

[0063] The at least one coupling point can, for example, comprise two or more rectifiers. The at least one coupling point includes these rectifiers, for example, by connecting the rectifiers operationally (e.g., electrically) to the coupling point.

[0064] Accordingly, several (at least two) different DC voltages can be provided at the connection point, e.g., for use by consumers. A DC busbar is suitable for this purpose as a transfer point for the consumers. The DC busbar can, for example, provide DC voltages of different levels, e.g., 400 V and 800 V. 800 V DC is particularly suitable, for example, for charging electric vehicles.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, the at least one coupling point is balanced to a fixed operating point by adjusting the network frequency of the local network area to a predefined value.

[0066] For example, a control information or control parameter can be defined, comprising several parts, where each part contains or represents information for the control and / or regulation of a specific element within the local network area. Alternatively or additionally, separate control information can be defined for each element within the local network area. It is understood that in the latter case, all defined control information must then be output to the corresponding elements of the local network area, or its output must be initiated accordingly, as described in this specification.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment of all aspects of the invention, a communication link exists between the control unit of the local network area and, in particular, a central network control center of the public electricity grid for the transmission of one or more pieces of information.

[0068] For this purpose, at least one control unit includes, for example, a communication interface. Timetable information can be received via the communication interface, e.g., from a network control center of the public power grid. Furthermore, at least one control parameter can be transmitted (e.g., sent) via the communication interface to one or more elements within the local network area.

[0069] The embodiments and exemplary configurations of all aspects of the present invention described above, which initially stand on their own, are also to be understood as being disclosed in all combinations with one another.

[0070] Further advantageous exemplary embodiments of the invention can be found in the following detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, particularly in conjunction with the figures. However, the figures accompanying the application are intended only for illustrative purposes and not to determine the scope of protection of the invention. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale and are intended only to reflect the general concept of the present invention by way of example. In particular, features included in the figures should by no means be considered a necessary component of the present invention. Brief description of the characters

[0071] They show: Fig. 1: a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention; Fig. 2: a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the present invention; and Fig. 3: a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method which, in the context of the present invention, is carried out, for example, by the control unit 110 of the system. Fig. 1 can be carried out. Detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0072] Fig. 1 Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 according to the present invention.

[0073] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a local grid area 120 with three connection points 180-1, 180-2, 180-3 to a public electricity grid 130. Each connection point is connected to the (higher-level) public electricity grid 130 (e.g., a medium-voltage grid) via a transformer. The electricity grid 130 can be connected to several such local grid areas (in Fig. 1 (not shown) according to the type of local network area 120, whereby in turn one or more connection points may exist between such a local network area and the public electricity grid 130.

[0074] System 100 comprises a control unit 110, which is covered by the local network area 120. The control unit 110 includes a communication interface (see communication interface 230 of the Fig. 2The control unit 110 can receive timetable information via the communication interface. This timetable information can be transmitted to the control unit 110, for example, from a facility (e.g., a server at a network control center) of the public power grid 130.

[0075] The local grid area 120 comprises a storage unit 140, several service connections 160-1 to 160-5, which constitute loads of the local grid area 120, and several electrical energy generation units 150-1, 150-2, and 150-3. The generation units 150-1 and 150-2 are designed as photovoltaic systems and are, for example, located on the roof of the house that includes service connection 160-1 or 160-2, respectively. The generation unit 150-3 is, in this case, a wind turbine. Furthermore, the local grid area 120 includes an electric vehicle 160-6 as a load, which is connected to the local grid area 120, for example, for charging.

[0076] Starting from each of the transformers at connection points 180-1, 180-2, and 180-3 encompassed by the local network area 120, a distribution line 170—designed as an electrical conductor—extends to the elements encompassed by the local network area 120. Such transformers 180-1, 180-2, and 180-3 can, for example, be designed as electronic transformers. The connection points can, for example, enable the operation of a direct current (DC) network. In the latter case, rectifiers, for example, are included at the respective connection points instead of transformers. It is understood that each corresponding connection point can be used as an alternative to the corresponding one in Fig. 1 The transformer 180-1, 180-2, 180-3 shown can also be implemented equivalently by a rectifier, converter, or electronic transformer in certain applications.

[0077] The energy storage device 140 is designed as a battery and allows energy to be stored in it, and stored energy to be fed into the public grid 130 for consumption by elements of the local grid area 120, and / or fed into the public grid 130 via one or more of the transformers that are encompassed by the respective coupling points 180-1, 180-2, 180-3.

[0078] The control device 110 can, for example, form a switching device, so that it is possible to selectively supply individual elements of the local network area 120 (in this case, for example, house connections 160-1 to 160-6, generation facilities 150-1 to 150-3, and the storage unit 140) with electrical energy, so that these elements can be controlled and / or regulated.

[0079] The coupling point 180-1 comprises two taps for electrical power. This is schematically represented by the two solid lines leading from the transformer of coupling point 180-1 to the distribution line 170. The taps can, for example, provide direct current, alternating current, or three-phase current. If the two taps are direct current taps, they can, for example, provide voltages of different levels, e.g., one at 400 V and the other at 800 V, to give just one non-limiting example.

[0080] The coupling point 180-2 includes a tap for electrical energy. This is schematically represented by the single dashed line leading from the transformer of coupling point 180-2 to the distribution line 170.

[0081] The coupling point 180-3 comprises three taps for electrical energy. This is schematically represented by the three dashed lines leading from the transformer of coupling point 180-3 to the distribution line 170. The taps can, for example, provide direct current, alternating current, or three-phase current. It is understood that if at least two of the taps provide direct current, they can, analogously to the explanations for coupling point 180-1, provide, for example, voltages of different levels.

[0082] The coupling points 180-1, 180-2, 180-3 each include galvanic isolation according to exemplary aspects of the present subject.

[0083] Fig. 3 Figure 300 represents a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the present invention, which in the context of the present invention is, for example, controlled by the control unit 110 of the system of Fig. 1 can be executed. The control unit 110 can, for example, be used as device 200 of the Fig. 2 be trained.

[0084] In a first step 310, timetable information is obtained. The timetable information is obtained, for example, from a communication interface included in the control unit 110 (e.g., communication interface 330 of the device 300). Fig. 3 ) received (e.g., received). The timetable information is, for example, sent from a network control center of a public electricity grid (e.g., electricity grid 130 to). Fig. 1 ), with which a local network area that includes the control unit 110 is connected, is transmitted (e.g. sent) to the control unit 110.

[0085] In a second step 321, the controllable and / or controllable elements within the local network area are controlled and / or regulated, e.g., based on a specific control parameter (see step 322). The control and / or regulation of the controllable and / or controllable elements is executed, for example, by the control unit 110 transmitting the specific control parameter to the corresponding elements to be controlled or regulated (e.g., storage 140; generation plants 150-1, 150-2, 150-3; electrical consumers (loads) 160-1 to 160-6), e.g., via the communication interface provided by the control unit 110. The determination of at least one control parameter in the optional step 322 is carried out, for example, by the control unit 110. The determination of at least one control parameter is carried out, for example, at least partially based on the received timetable information (see step 321).The timetable information specifies, for example, how much (electrical) power is to be fed into or out of the public grid via a specific connection point (e.g., connection points 180-1, 180-2, 180-3). Accordingly, at least one specific control parameter (see step 322) can be determined such that a storage device (e.g., energy storage device 140) is used. Fig. 1 ) provides this required electrical energy. The energy provided by the energy storage system does not need to meet the technical requirements of the public power grid, such as supporting a specific transmission method and a predefined frequency (e.g., AC transmission method and 50 Hz), since at one or more coupling points (e.g., coupling points 180-1, 180-2, 180-3 of the Fig. 1 ) a galvanic isolation between the local network area (see local network area 120 of the Fig. 1) and the public electricity grid (see public electricity grid 120 of the Fig. 1 ) is implemented. Step 321 and the optional step 322 are combined in box 320, as they can form a logical and / or functional unit.

[0086] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a device 200 that can be used in the context of the present invention.

[0087] For example, device 200 can control device 110 (control unit) according to Fig. 1 represent (and then, for example, the procedure of the flowchart 300 after Fig. 3 execute). Furthermore, the device 200 can, for example, be comprised of an element (e.g., elements 140, 150-1 to 150-3, 160-1 to 160-6 of the Fig. 1 ) may be included, in particular, control and / or regulation of the corresponding element may be carried out by means of an actuator 260.

[0088] Device 200 comprises a processor 210 with associated main memory 240 and program memory 220. The processor 210 executes, for example, program instructions stored in the program memory 220. The program instructions execute and / or control the method according to the first aspect of the invention. Thus, the program memory 220 contains a computer program according to an exemplary aspect of the invention and represents a computer program product for its storage. Device 200 represents an example of a device according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0089] The program memory 220 can be, for example, persistent memory such as read-only memory (ROM). The program memory 220 can be permanently connected to the processor 210, or alternatively, it can be detachably connected to the processor 210, for example, as a memory card, floppy disk, or optical data carrier (e.g., a CD or DVD). Additional information can also be stored in the program memory 220 or in separate memory.

[0090] The 240 main memory, for example, is used to store temporary results during the execution of program instructions; this is, for example, volatile memory such as random-access memory (RAM).

[0091] The processor 210 is also operationally connected to a communication interface 330, which enables, for example, the exchange of information with other devices (see, for example, the arrows or connections between the components of the system 100 according to...). Fig. 1 included entities or elements).

[0092] The device 200 may also contain or comprise further components. For example, it may include, in particular, one or more sensors 250, which are used, for example, to acquire (e.g., measure) measured values ​​at a coupling point (e.g., coupling points 180-1, 180-23, 180-3) between a local network area (e.g., local network area 120) and a connection point 200. Fig. 1 ) and a public electricity grid (e.g., electricity grid 130 to Fig. 1The device 200 may further comprise one or more actuators 260 as structural and / or functional units that are operationally connected to or encompassed by the processor 210. The actuator 260 may, for example, be configured to control and / or regulate an element of the local network area (see also step 321 of flowchart 300). Fig. 3 ).

[0093] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention described in this specification are to be understood as disclosed both individually and in all combinations with one another. In particular, the description of a feature included in an embodiment—unless explicitly stated otherwise—is not to be understood as meaning that the feature is indispensable or essential for the function of the embodiment. The sequence of the process steps described in this specification in the individual flowcharts is not mandatory; alternative sequences of process steps are conceivable. The process steps can be implemented in various ways, such as in software (by program instructions), hardware, or a combination of both.

[0094] Terms used in the claims, such as "comprise," "have," "include," "contain," and the like, do not exclude further elements or steps. The phrase "at least partially" covers both "partially" and "completely." The phrase "and / or" is to be understood as disclosing both the alternative and the combination; thus, "A and / or B" means "(A) or (B) or (A and B)." A plurality of units, persons, or the like, in the context of this specification, means multiple units, persons, or the like. The use of the indefinite article does not preclude a plurality. A single device can perform the functions of several units or devices mentioned in the claims. Reference numerals specified in the claims are not to be considered as limitations on the means and steps employed.

Claims

1. A method performed by a control equipment, comprising: - obtaining schedule information indicative of an amount of electrical energy to be transmitted at at least one coupling point between a local grid area and a public power grid for a predefined period of time, wherein a first transmission method of the electrical energy within the local grid area deviates at least temporarily from a predefined second transmission method of the public power grid, wherein the public power grid is operated in the range of low-voltage distribution grid and / or medium-voltage distribution grid in the transmission method alternating current or three-phase current at a predefined voltage level, wherein a galvanic isolation of the local grid area to the public power grid is implemented at the coupling point, wherein the at least one coupling point also provides several different direct current voltages for use by the local grid area; and - controlling and / or regulating of one or more elements comprised by the local grid area, wherein the controlling and / or regulating is at least partially based on the received schedule information.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first transmission method of the local grid area is a direct current method, alternating current method or three-phase transmission method.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the transmission method is an alternating current method or three-phase current method, further comprising: - determining at least one control parameter with which at least one grid frequency of the local grid area is changed, wherein the at least one control parameter is output so that the grid frequency of the local grid area is changed.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the at least one coupling point is balanced to a fixed operating point by adjusting the grid frequency of the local grid area to a predefined value.

5. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control equipment is operatively connected to the coupling point or is comprised by the coupling point.

6. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the galvanic isolation is realized or comprised by the coupling point, wherein the galvanic isolation is realized by means of a power electronic converter or a step-down converters or step-up converter.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the power electronic converter is a power electronic inverter arranged downstream of a local network station.

8. The method according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein a voltage change in the local grid area is also set and / or compensated by means of the at least one control parameter, wherein the voltage change is effected, in particular, by storing or withdrawing electrical energy in or from one or more storage devices comprised in the local grid area.

9. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein electrical energy is transmitted between the local grid area and the public power grid at least in part based on the schedule information by means of the at least one coupling point as a transfer point, so that a setpoint value comprised of or represented by the schedule information is set at the transfer point by means of voltage-dependent active power control.

10. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of coupling points are formed between the public power grid and the local grid area, wherein the transmission method of the local grid area is set at least partially based on the received schedule information taking into account the plurality of coupling points.

11. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a communication connection exists between the control equipment of the local grid area and, in particular, a central grid control center of the public power grid for transmitting one or more pieces of information.

12. A device configured to execute and / or control the method according to one of claims 1 to 11 or comprising respective means for executing and / or controlling the steps of the method according to one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the device is spatially close to or in close proximity to the controllable and / or regulatable elements comprised by the local network area in such a way that no elements of the public power grid are arranged between them.

14. A system comprising: - at least one device according to one of claims 12 or 13; and - one or more controllable and / or regulatable elements, which are comprised in the one local grid area and are connected to a public power grid by means of at least one coupling point; - wherein the at least one device and the one or more elements are comprised within the local grid area.

15. A computer program comprising program instructions that cause a processor to execute and / or control the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11 when the computer program runs on the processor.

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