Optimizing the use of renewable energy

Abstract

A method for optimizing the energy consumption of an installation (1), comprising the first steps, carried out before a specified period, of: implementing a disaggregation process to predict, for each device (2), an expected individual consumption profile; predicting an expected renewable energy production profile from the renewable energy source; defining initial optimized individual consumption profiles for the devices, allowing for maximum use of renewable electrical energy; and the second step of controlling the devices during the specified period using the initial optimized individual consumption profiles. ABRIDGED FIGURE: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Optimization of the use of renewable energy

[0001] The invention relates to the field of managing the electrical consumption of an installation connected to a renewable energy source (photovoltaic panels for example).

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] Today, more and more domestic installations are connected to photovoltaic panels, allowing users to reduce their electricity bill as well as their dependence on the traditional electricity grid.

[0004] However, the periods of electricity consumption of the various devices in an installation do not coincide with the solar production curve, resulting in underutilization of available solar energy. Solar production is therefore not optimized from an economic, technical, and environmental perspective.

[0005] OBJECT

[0006] The invention aims to optimize the consumption of renewable energy by the devices of an installation connected to a renewable energy source.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] To achieve this goal, a method is proposed for optimizing the overall electrical consumption of an installation comprising appliances and connected to a renewable energy source, the optimization method comprising the first steps, carried out before a specified period, of: - to acquire measurements of the overall electrical consumption of the installation; - implement a disaggregation process so as to predict, from said measurements, for each device, an expected individual consumption profile of said device as a function of time during the determined period; - predict an expected renewable energy production profile by the renewable energy source as a function of time during the specified period; - adapt the expected individual consumption profile of at least one device according to the expected renewable production profile, in order to define initial optimized individual consumption profiles for the devices, allowing to maximize the use of renewable electrical energy, produced by the renewable energy source, to power the devices during the determined period;

[0009] the optimization process further comprising the second step, implemented during the specified period, of controlling the devices using the first optimized individual consumption profiles.

[0010] The implementation of the disaggregation process thus makes it possible to predict, for the specified period (the following day, for example), the expected individual profiles of electricity consumption for the various devices in the installation. The individual profiles are then adjusted (by a time shift, for example) taking into account the forecast for renewable energy production for the specified period, and the devices are controlled using the optimized individual profiles, thereby maximizing the use of renewable energy.

[0011] The optimization process therefore makes it possible to: - maximize self-consumption: we optimize the use of available renewable energy to maximize self-consumption and minimize dependence on traditional energy sources; - achieve significant energy savings: thanks to intelligent planning and optimization of energy consumption, the user achieves significant energy savings on their electricity bill; - promote more efficient and sustainable use of energy, which contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and supports the transition to greener lifestyles; - provide significant flexibility and adaptability: the optimization process can be implemented in different home environments and energy configurations, thus offering a flexible solution for users.

[0012] We further propose an optimization process as previously described, in which the expected individual consumption profile of at least one device is also adapted, to obtain the first optimized individual consumption profile of said device, according to a user instruction and / or an energy tariff.

[0013] We further propose an optimization method as previously described, in which the prediction of the expected renewable production profile uses weather forecasts for the determined period.

[0014] We further propose an optimization method as previously described, in which, for at least one device, the prediction of the expected individual consumption profile of said device uses weather forecasts for the determined period.

[0015] An optimization process as previously described is also proposed, comprising the following steps, following the implementation of the disaggregation process: - classify each device into at least one category from a group of categories comprising at least three categories from: interruptible device, non-interruptible device, device forming a mainly resistive load, device forming a mainly inductive load, device having a displaceable consumption by block; - define the first optimized individual consumption profiles based on this classification.

[0016] An optimization method as previously described is further proposed, in which, for an interruptible device, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile comprises the steps of: - deactivate the interruptible device for at least an initial period of low availability of renewable electrical energy; - reactivate the interruptible device for at least an initial period of high availability of renewable electrical energy; - the first period of low availability and the first period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

[0017] An optimization method as previously described is further proposed, in which, for a device forming a predominantly resistive load, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile comprises the following steps: - reduce the power consumed by said device during at least a second period of low availability of renewable electrical energy; - spread the power consumed over an extended period or increase the power consumed by said resistive device during at least a second period of high availability of renewable electrical energy;

[0018] the second period of low availability and the second period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

[0019] We further propose an optimization process as previously described, in which, for a device having a block-shiftable consumption, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile includes the step of temporally shifting a consumption of said device without changing a shape of said profile from a third period of low availability of renewable electrical energy to a third period of high availability of renewable electrical energy;

[0020] the third period of low availability and the third period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

[0021] An optimization process as previously described is also proposed, further comprising the second steps, during the specified period, of: - monitor in real time current production of the renewable energy source and / or changes in weather conditions and / or current electricity consumption of at least one device; - adapt the first individual optimized consumption profiles based on the results of this monitoring, to produce second individual optimized consumption profiles for the devices; - control the devices using the second optimized individual consumption profiles.

[0022] We further propose an optimization process as previously described, comprising the step of implementing a fuzzy logic algorithm to define the first optimized individual consumption profile of at least one device.

[0023] We further propose an optimization method as previously described, in which the fuzzy logic algorithm takes as inputs several quantities from among:

[0024] - an irradiance planned for the specified period;

[0025] - a temperature predicted for the specified period;

[0026] - at least one user instruction;

[0027] - at least one energy tariff.

[0028] We further propose an optimization method as previously described, in which the fuzzy logic algorithm has as its output an optimal startup time for said device.

[0029] We further propose an optimization process as previously described, comprising the step of executing an inference of a previously trained machine learning model to define the first optimized individual consumption profile of at least one device.

[0030] We further propose an optimization method as previously described, in which the machine learning model has as inputs several quantities from among:

[0031] - an irradiance planned for the specified period;

[0032] - a temperature predicted for the specified period;

[0033] - at least one user instruction;

[0034] - at least one energy tariff.

[0035] We further propose an optimization process as previously described, in which the machine learning model outputs an optimal startup time for said device.

[0036] In addition, management equipment is proposed, arranged to control the devices of the installation, and comprising a processing unit in which at least some of the steps of the optimization process as previously described are implemented.

[0037] A computer program is also proposed comprising instructions which lead the processing unit of the management equipment as previously described to execute the steps of the optimization process as previously described.

[0038] A computer-readable recording medium is also proposed, on which the computer program as previously described is recorded.

[0039] The invention will be better understood in the light of the following description of particular, non-limiting embodiments of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0040] Reference will be made to the attached drawings, among which:

[0041] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] represents an installation connected to a photovoltaic panel;

[0042] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents steps in the optimization process;

[0043] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] represents graphs comprising signature curves of electricity consumption of different devices;

[0044] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents a graph comprising profile curves individual expected consumption of the water heater, and the expected renewable production profile by the photovoltaic panels;

[0045] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents a graph comprising curves of the first optimized individual water heater consumption profile, and expected renewable production profile from photovoltaic panels;

[0046] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] represents a graph (on the left) comprising curves of the expected renewable production profile by photovoltaic panels and expected individual consumption profiles of several devices, and a graph (right) including curves of the expected renewable production profile by photovoltaic panels and the first optimized individual consumption profiles of these devices;

[0047] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] illustrates the implementation of the fuzzy logic algorithm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] With reference to [Fig. 1], a domestic installation 1, which is here integrated into a user's home, comprises a number of devices 2 whose operation requires an electrical supply. These devices 2 include household appliances 2a (refrigerator, oven, washing machine, etc.), electric heating devices 2b (radiators, for example), a water heater 2c, an air conditioning system 2d, and a charging station 2e for charging the batteries of an electric car.

[0049] Installation 1 is connected to a renewable energy source, here to photovoltaic panels 3 which are, for example, installed on the roof of the house (only one panel is shown here, but there may be one or more). The panels The photovoltaic panels 3 are associated with irradiance sensors 4 that measure irradiance in real time. The photovoltaic panels 3 are connected to an inverter 5 which generates, from the (direct) current produced by the photovoltaic panels 3 under a solar (direct) voltage, a solar (alternating) current Is under a supply voltage Va (alternating), allowing the devices 2 to be powered.

[0050] Installation 1 is also connected to the "traditional" electrical distribution network 7, which supplies it with a network current Ir (alternating) under the supply voltage Va.

[0051] Installation 1 is also connected to a "hybrid" inverter 8, itself connected to batteries 9. The hybrid inverter 8 produces a current (direct) under a battery voltage (direct), which can be stored in the batteries 9 when the electrical production of the photovoltaic panels 3 is greater than the need of installation 1. Conversely, the hybrid inverter 8 can reinject a battery current Ib (alternating) to power installation 1 when required.

[0052] An electricity meter 10 is connected to the installation 1 and allows the measurement of the electrical grid energy Er supplied by the network 7 to the installation 1. The meter 10 is bidirectional: it can also measure the solar electrical energy Es produced by the photovoltaic panels 3 and possibly reinjected into the network 7.

[0053] The inverter 5, the hybrid inverter 8 and the devices 2 are all connected to the internal network 12 of the installation 1, to which the meter 10 is connected.

[0054] The devices 2 are therefore powered by two separate sources: the network 7 which provides the electrical network energy Er, and the photovoltaic panels 3 which provide the solar electrical energy Es (and the batteries 9 which store part of the solar electrical energy).

[0055] Installation 1 further includes a management equipment 14 whose role is to optimize the electrical consumption of installation 1 to maximize the consumption of solar electrical energy Es, which makes it possible to reduce the consumption by installation 1 of grid electrical energy Er.

[0056] The management equipment 14 is installed in the user's home, for example near the meter 10. The management equipment 14 includes a box 15 in which are integrated a processing unit 16, analog inputs 17, first means of communication 18 and second means of communication 19.

[0057] The processing unit 16 is an electronic and software unit. The processing unit 16 comprises at least one processing component 20, which is, for example, a general-purpose processor, a processor specializing in signal processing (or DSP, for Digital Signal Processor), a processor specializing in artificial intelligence algorithms (of the NPU, for Neural Processing Unit, type), a microcontroller, or a programmable logic circuit such as an FPGA (for Field FPGA). Programmable Gate Arrays) or an ASIC (for Application Specified Integrated Circuit).

[0058] The processing unit 16 also includes one or more memories 21, connected to or integrated into the processing component(s) 20. At least one of these memories 21 forms a computer-readable recording medium, on which is recorded at least one computer program comprising instructions which lead the processing unit 16 to execute at least some of the steps of the optimization process which will be described.

[0059] The analog inputs 17 of the management equipment 14 are connected to sensors 22, among which are: a current sensor 22a which measures the solar current Is, a current sensor 22b which measures the network current Ir, a current sensor 22c which measures the battery current Ib, and a voltage sensor (not shown) which measures the alternating voltage Va.

[0060] The analog inputs 17 of the management equipment 14 are also connected to the irradiance sensors 4 of the photovoltaic panels 3.

[0061] All the sensors 4, 22 are "pre-existing" sensors, classically present in an installation such as installation 1, to which the management equipment 14 is connected to implement the invention.

[0062] The first means of communication 18 allow the management equipment 14 to communicate with one or more remote servers 23 of the cloud 24 (possibly via a gateway integrated into the installation 1). The first means of communication 18 also allow the user to communicate with the management equipment 14, for example via an application installed on their smartphone 25, or via their computer 26 (and possibly via the cloud 24).

[0063] The management equipment 14 can in particular acquire weather forecasts to anticipate solar production conditions and future electrical consumption needs of devices 2. The weather forecasts can include, for example, forecasts of outside temperature and irradiance forecasts.

[0064] The second means of communication 19 allow the management equipment 14 to implement communication to control the devices 2 of the installation 1. Here, "control" means to issue any command that affects the electrical consumption of the device. This command is, for example, an activation of device 2, a deactivation, an adjustment of any output level of the device (temperature, for example), etc.

[0065] The second means of communication 19 can also allow the management equipment 14 to communicate with the meter 10.

[0066] The first means of communication 18 and the second means of communication 19 include wired and / or wireless and / or power line carrier means, which implement one or more known communication protocols, and for example NB-IoT, LTE-M, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, PLC, Wi-Fi, etc.

[0067] Here, each device 2 of the installation 1 is connected to a remote module 28. All the remote modules 28 are connected here to a centralized module 29.

[0068] The remote modules 28 are connected electrical outlets. The central module 29 is a "smart" home automation module that controls the devices 2 via the remote modules 28.

[0069] The control of devices 2 is carried out by the management equipment 14 via the centralized module 29 and the remote modules 28. The management equipment 14 uses its second means of communication 19 to transmit the commands to the centralized module 29 which retransmits them (after processing / formatting if necessary) to the remote modules 28.

[0070] It is noted that several devices 2 can be connected to the same remote module 28 and controlled via said remote module 28. One or more groups of devices 2 can be formed. The management equipment 14 can then possibly send the same instruction to the entire group of devices 2.

[0071] We are now interested, with reference to [Fig.2], in the implementation of the optimization process by the management equipment 14.

[0072] The optimization process includes first steps ET1 and second steps ET2.

[0073] The first steps ET1 are implemented before a determined period. Here, for each current day J (that is to say for each "present" day), the determined period is the following day J+1, therefore the day after the current day.

[0074] The second steps ET2 are implemented during the determined period, therefore the following day, that is to say the day after the current day.

[0075] We are interested first of all in the first steps ET1.

[0076] The optimization process starts at step E0.

[0077] The management equipment 14 is installed by the user or by a technician in the installation 1, and is connected to the devices 2, the sensors 4, 22, the meter 10 possibly, and the server(s) 23 of the cloud 24: step EL. These couplings can be completely automatic, without any intervention from the user.

[0078] The management equipment 14 is therefore simply added to the installation 1. It is connected to the pre-existing equipment and does not require any additional special equipment. The implementation of the optimization process is therefore extremely simple and flexible, since it only requires the installation of the management equipment 14.

[0079] The processing unit 16 implements an initialization step E2. The processing unit 16 configures the connections to the devices 2, to the various sensors 4, 22, to the servers 23 and to the counter 10 (if necessary).

[0080] Steps E0 to E2 are performed only once. However, if the configuration of installation 1 changes (new devices, new sensors, etc.), the initialization step E2 can be repeated.

[0081] Each day, the processing unit 16 loads the weather forecasts, including temperature and irradiance forecasts for the following day. The processing unit 16 can thus anticipate solar electricity production and consumption needs for the following day (J+l).

[0082] The processing unit 16 retrieves the measurements of the overall electrical consumption of the installation 1 and the measurements of the solar electrical production by the photovoltaic panels 3: step E3.

[0083] These measurements are available via sensors 4, 22 and possibly by querying counter 10.

[0084] By "total electrical consumption", we mean the consumption of the entire installation 1, without distinguishing the devices 2.

[0085] Step E3 is performed continuously, every day.

[0086] The processing unit 16 therefore continuously acquires weather forecasts and measurements of the overall electrical consumption of the installation 1.

[0087] The processing unit 16 then implements a disaggregation process, so as to predict from said measurements, for each device 2, an expected individual profile of electrical consumption of said device 2 as a function of time during the determined period (i.e. for the following day): step E4. Each expected individual profile is for example formed from values ​​of power consumed as a function of time, during the determined period.

[0088] Disaggregation makes it possible to detect the different consumers in the house. Disaggregating the total electrical consumption of the house, in real time, makes it possible to identify and track the consumption of each electrical appliance or group of appliances.

[0089] The disintegration process is repeated regularly to detect new devices.

[0090] The non-intrusive disaggregation identifies the consumption of each device 2 by detecting in the overall electrical consumption measurements an electrical signature associated with said device 2 (i.e., a particular shape of a consumption curve over time). The processing unit 16 analyzes this for the purpose. for example the intensity and voltage curves, with a frequency for example of the order of 10 kHz, and which is here between 5 kHz and 20 kHz.

[0091] The disintegration process is repeated regularly to detect new devices.

[0092] The disintegration process is known to a person skilled in the art.

[0093] Figure 3 shows signatures for four types of devices: - signature 30 of a device in a state without a significant peak; this is a lamp for example; - signature 31 of a device in a state with a significant peak; this is a refrigerator for example; - signature 32 of a non-linear device; this is a laptop computer for example; - signature 33 of a continuous device with decay; this is an air conditioner for example.

[0094] This data comes from the document [Pascal Schirmer, Losif Mporas, Akbar Sheikh Akbari. 'Robust energy disaggregation using appliance-specific temporal contextual information' EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing. 2020].

[0095] The processing unit 16 therefore obtains, after a period of observation of the consumption of the house, for example of a few weeks, a list of devices which consume in the house.

[0096] Disaggregation can also identify the consumption profile for a group of devices using a signature that allows the group to be identified.

[0097] The processing unit 16 records the data from each device 2 or group of devices.

[0098] Following the disaggregation step, the processing unit 16 classifies each device 2 or group of devices into at least one of the categories of a category group: step E5. The category group comprises at least three of the following categories: - interruptible device; - non-interruptible device; - device forming a predominantly resistive load; - device forming a predominantly inductive load; - device with a movable power consumption per block.

[0099] Interruptible devices can be switched on or off "at will." For example, they can be interrupted to the second. In contrast, non-interruptible devices, once they have started, cannot be switched off.

[0100] Devices forming a predominantly resistive load include, for example, a purely resistive water heater, a radiator, etc.

[0101] Devices forming a predominantly inductive load include, for example, devices incorporating a motor.

[0102] Devices with a displaceable block consumption have an electrical consumption whose profile can be displaced temporally while retaining its initial shape.

[0103] Non-interruptible devices with non-movable power consumption include, for example, the refrigerator, freezer, lighting system, etc.

[0104] Non-interruptible devices with a movable power consumption per unit include, for example, a thermodynamic water heater incorporating a heat pump. Such a hot water tank cannot be interrupted simply by damaging the heat pump.

[0105] Then, the processing unit 16 analyzes the measurements of solar electricity production and predicts an expected renewable production profile by at least one photovoltaic panel 3 as a function of time during the following day: step E6.

[0106] The processing unit 16, for this purpose, monitors and analyzes renewable (solar) production in real time, and records solar production data to calculate available energy.

[0107] Again, the expected renewable production profile is formed, for example, from power output values ​​as a function of time, during the determined period.

[0108] The processing unit 16 will then adapt the expected individual profile of electricity consumption of at least one device 2 from the expected renewable production profile, to define first optimized individual consumption profiles for the devices 2, allowing to maximize the use of solar electrical energy to power the devices 2 during the determined period: step E7.

[0109] The expected individual consumption profile of at least one device 2 is also adapted, to obtain the first optimized individual consumption profile of said device, according to a user instruction and / or an energy tariff.

[0110] If, for a device 2, the expected individual profile is not suitable because it is already optimized, the first optimized individual profile is considered to be the expected individual profile for said device 2.

[0111] The processing unit 16 simulates the start-up of devices 2. The processing unit 16 therefore virtually compares the consumption data of devices 2 with solar production forecasts, and simulates the operation of the different devices according to the consumption and solar production forecasts. The processing unit 16 thus determines the opportune times to start or switch off certain devices, and also, when possible, adjusts the power consumption in order to optimize the use of solar energy. The simulation will determine the opportune times to use the solar energy produced in order to maximize self-consumption. The processing unit 16 adapts the load of the electrical devices 2 accordingly (e.g., stagger operating periods, reduce the power of certain devices, increase the power during a certain period and reduce it during another period, sequence consumption into different disjoint periods, etc.).

[0112] The processing unit 16 defines the first optimized individual consumption profiles based on the result of the device classification.

[0113] The adaptation of the individual consumption profiles of devices 2 will therefore depend on the category in which device 2 (or categories) has been classified.

[0114] For example, for an interruptible device, adapting the expected individual consumption profile includes the steps of: - disable the interruptible device for at least an initial period of low availability of renewable electrical energy (here solar); - reactivate the interruptible device for at least an initial period of high availability of renewable electrical energy (here solar);

[0115] the first period of low availability and the first period of high availability belonging to the determined period (here the following day).

[0116] Periods of low solar energy availability may correspond to periods during which the panels 3 produce little, but also to periods during which the overall consumption of the installation is high.

[0117] For a device forming a predominantly resistive load, adapting the expected individual consumption profile includes the following steps: - reduce the power consumed by said device during at least a second period of low availability of renewable electrical energy; - to spread the power consumed over an extended period or to increase the power consumed by said resistive device during at least a second period of high availability of renewable electrical energy;

[0118] the second period of low availability and the second period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

[0119] For a device having a displaceable consumption by block, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile includes the step of temporally displacing a consumption of said device without changing the shape of the profile from a third period of low availability of renewable electrical energy to a third period of high availability of renewable electrical energy;

[0120] the third period of low availability and the third period of high availability belonging to the determined period (here the following day).

[0121] Steps E6 and E7 are performed here every day in progress, to predict and optimize the profiles for the following day. These steps are therefore repeated daily.

[0122] We are now interested in the second steps ET2, implemented during the determined period, that is to say during the day following J+1.

[0123] The processing unit 16 controls the devices 2 using the first optimized individual consumption profiles: step E8.

[0124] The processing unit 16 uses the centralized module 29 and the remote modules 28 to adjust the operation of the devices 2 according to the optimization results. The processing unit 16 allocates the load between the devices in such a way as to maximize energy efficiency.

[0125] In addition, during the specified period, the processing unit 16: - monitors in real time current production of photovoltaic panels 3 and / or changes in weather conditions (temperature, irradiance, etc.) and / or current electricity consumption of at least one device 2; - adapts the first individual optimized consumption profiles based on the results of this monitoring, to produce second individual optimized consumption profiles for the devices; - controls the devices using the second optimized individual consumption profiles.

[0126] The processing unit 16 therefore adjusts the parameters of the profile optimization algorithm according to the results obtained to improve efficiency and energy savings: step E9.

[0127] In particular, the processing unit 16 monitors in real time a current production of the photovoltaic panels s 3. The processing unit 16 adapts the first individual optimized consumption profiles according to the current production to produce second optimized consumption profiles for the devices 2.

[0128] The processing unit 16 can also detect the power consumption of new appliances. By continuing to monitor the home's energy consumption, the processing unit 16 detects the possible addition of new electrical appliances. The processing unit 16 can then propose a new test period to assess the impact of these appliances on overall energy consumption.

[0129] Again, if for a device 2, the first associated optimized individual profile is not suitable because it is already optimized, the second optimized profile is considered to be the first optimized profile for said device.

[0130] The result of implementing the optimization process on a purely resistive water heater is now described.

[0131] Figure 4 shows the expected individual consumption profile (curve C1) of the water heater 2c as a function of time during the following day, as well as the expected renewable energy production profile (curve C2) by the photovoltaic panels 3, as predicted by the processing unit 16. The water heater 2c is controlled here with an on / off control. The power consumed is particularly high between times T1 and T2 and exceeds the available solar electrical power during this time interval. The remaining power must be supplied by the grid 7, and therefore at a high tariff.

[0132] During the current day, the treatment unit 16 adapts the expected individual consumption profile of the water heater and defines an initial optimized individual consumption profile. Referring to Figure 5, the following day, the treatment unit 16 controls the water heater 2c using this initial optimized individual consumption profile (curve C3). To do this, the treatment unit 16 controls the water heater 2c using variable power control. The treatment unit 16 will thus reduce the power consumed by the water heater during periods of low solar energy availability and spread the power consumption over a longer period.

[0133] Thus, even if the operating time of the water heater is longer, almost all of the power supplied to the water heater comes from the photovoltaic panels 3. Any additional power, which is very small, is supplied by the network 7.

[0134] The use of the first optimized individual consumption profile for the water heater therefore makes it possible to maximize the use of solar electrical energy.

[0135] With regard to electric radiators, their overall consumption is analyzed and control will possibly be considered via a "pilot wire" type control.

[0136] Electric vehicle charging can also be 100% solar as shown in the curves.

[0137] The graph on the left of [Fig.6] shows the expected individual consumption profiles, predicted, during the current day, by the processing unit 16 for the following day and for four devices: the heat pump of the heating system (curve C4), which consumes electrical energy mainly during the period D1, the water heater (curve C5), which consumes electrical energy mainly during the period D2, any machine (curve C6), which consumes electrical energy mainly during the period D3, and the charging station (curve C7), which consumes electrical energy mainly during the period D4.

[0138] Curve C2 corresponds to the expected renewable production profile for the specified period (the following day).

[0139] We see that according to the predictions made, and without optimization of consumption profiles, solar electrical energy will be poorly exploited because the devices consume mainly during periods D1, D2, D3, D4 of low availability of solar electrical energy.

[0140] On the graph on the right, we see the first individual optimized consumption profiles, which were defined by the processing unit 16 during the current day and which are used to control the devices 2 during the following day: curve C'4 for the heat pump of the heating system, curve C'5 for the water heater, curve C'6 for the machine, curve C'7 for the charging station.

[0141] We see that: - the consumption of the heat pump, the water heater and the machine, which are here devices with a consumption that can be moved by block, are moved respectively from periods D1, D2, D3 (of high availability of solar electrical energy) to periods D'1, D'2, D'3 (of high availability of solar electrical energy); - The charging station's consumption is shifted from period D4 (of high availability of solar electricity) to period D'4 (of high availability of solar electricity). The shape of the profile is modified.

[0142] The use of solar energy to power these devices has thus been optimized.

[0143] In one embodiment, the processing unit 16 implements a fuzzy logic algorithm to define the first optimized individual consumption profile of at least one device 2.

[0144] This approach, based on fuzzy logic, can take into account various variables such as, for example, weather forecasts (e.g. the predicted irradiance for the next day, the predicted outside temperature for the next day), customer instructions for temperature and hot water, operator and solar tariffs, etc.

[0145] The output of the algorithm is, for example, the optimal start-up time of a device, for example, the charging station, the water heater or the heat pump.

[0146] To achieve this objective, the algorithm analyzes in real time meteorological data, data from irradiance sensors 4, and customer preferences, then makes intelligent decisions about switching devices 2 on or off. For example, if the predicted irradiance for the next day is high and the solar tariff is low, the algorithm may decide to start the charging station in the afternoon to maximize the use of solar energy. Similarly, if the outside temperature is low and the customer's hot water setpoint is high, the water heater can be programmed to start in the morning to provide hot water for the shower.

[0147] Thus, with reference to [Fig.7], the fuzzy logic algorithm 35 has several quantities as inputs 36, among: an irradiance predicted for the specified period; a temperature forecast for the specified period; at least one user instruction; at least one energy tariff.

[0148] The entries 26 therefore include here, for example, all or some of the following quantities: Next day's irradiance; next day's temperature: each of these inputs can be divided into several categories (members of the fuzzy set) such as "low", "medium" and "high", depending on the predicted irradiance and temperature value; User temperature setpoint; user hot water setpoint: the reference temperature and hot water desired by the user can be classified into categories such as "low", "normal", and "high"; Operator tariff; solar tariff: each of these entries represents energy tariffs, classified as "low", "medium", and "high" according to their value.

[0149] The fuzzy logic algorithm 35, for example, has as output 37, for each device 2, an optimal start-up time for said device 2. This output corresponds to the optimal time to start the device. It can be classified into categories such as "morning", "noon", and "evening".

[0150] The processing unit 16 can adapt the inputs 36 and outputs 37 of this algorithm 35 depending on the specific devices detected by load disaggregation. For example, if additional devices are detected, their states can be included as additional inputs to the algorithm. Similarly, the algorithm's outputs can be modified to include the control of these additional devices, in addition to the heat pump, water heater, and charging station.

[0151] The processing unit 16 can integrate new inputs and outputs. Other Parameters can also be included as inputs to the algorithm. For example, the battery charge level of an electric vehicle can be monitored and used as an input to schedule charging more efficiently. Similarly, other equipment such as home energy storage systems or energy management devices can be integrated into the system for more holistic energy consumption management.

[0152] We now describe a first example of implementation of the fuzzy logic algorithm 35.

[0153] Membership functions and fuzzy rules are described for a fuzzy logic algorithm 35 which uses the given inputs (next day's irradiance, next day's temperature, customer temperature setpoint, customer hot water setpoint, operator tariff, solar tariff) to determine the optimal device control start time as a function of disaggregation.

[0154] The membership functions in this example are: - Irradiance the following day: • Low: Triangular from 0 to 300 W / m2; • Average: Triangular from 200 to 800 W / m2; • High: Triangular, 600 to 1200 W / m2. - Temperature the following day: • Low: Triangular from 0 to 15 °C; • Normal: Triangular from 10 to 25 °C; • High: Triangular from 20 to 35 °C. - Customer temperature setting: • Low: Triangular from 18 to 22 °C; • Normal: Triangular, 20 to 24 °C; • High: Triangular from 22 to 26 °C. - Customer hot water instruction: • Low: Triangular at 40 to 50 °C; • Normal: Triangular, 50 to 60 °C; • High: Triangular at 60 to 70 °C. - Operator rate: • Bottom: Triangular from 0 to 0.15 € / kWh; • Average: Triangular from €0.10 to €0.30 / kWh; • High: Triangular from €0.25 to €0.50 / kWh. - Solar tariff: • Bottom: Triangular from 0 to 0.05 € / kWh; • Average: Triangular from €0.04 to €0.10 / kWh; • High: Triangular from €0.08 to €0.15 / kWh. - Optimal start-up time: • Morning: Triangular from 6:00 to 11:00; • Noon: Triangular from 1:00 AM to 2:00 PM; • Afternoon: Triangular from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.; • Evening: Triangular from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; • Night: Triangular from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM. - Control of the charging station, hot water tank and heat pump: • Off: Triangular from 0 to 0.5; • On: Triangular from 0.5 to 1.

[0155] The following are examples of vague rules for controlling the heat pump: - If the customer's temperature setting is "high" and the next day's irradiance is "high," then: • If the indoor temperature is low, then the heat pump must be "switched on" in the morning to heat the house before sunrise; • Otherwise, if the indoor temperature is normal then the heat pump should be "switched on" in the afternoon to maintain a comfortable temperature. - If the customer's temperature setting is "normal" and the next day's irradiance is "average," then: • If the indoor temperature is low, then the heat pump should be "switched on" in the afternoon to maintain a comfortable temperature; • Otherwise, if the indoor temperature is normal then the heat pump should remain “off” to save energy.

[0156] The following are examples of vague rules for controlling the hot water tank: - If the customer's hot water setpoint is "high" and the next day's irradiance is "high," then: • If the outside temperature is low, then the hot water tank must be "turned on" in the morning to provide hot water for the shower; • Otherwise, if the outside temperature is normal, then the hot water tank should be "turned on" in the late morning to meet the expected demand for hot water; • Otherwise, if the outside temperature is high, then the hot water tank must be "turned on" in the afternoon to meet the demand for hot water for cooking and washing. - If the customer's hot water setpoint is "normal" and the next day's irradiance is "average," then: • If the outside temperature is low, then the hot water tank should be "turned on" in the late morning to provide hot water for the shower; • Otherwise, if the outside temperature is normal then the hot water tank should be "turned on" in the afternoon to meet the expected demand for hot water.

[0157] An example of the result of the algorithm for controlling the hot water tank is given:

[0158] If [irradiance, hot water setpoint, outside temperature] = [700W / m2, 44°C, 15°C], then the optimal time to start the hot water tank is 7h:00.

[0159] The following are examples of vague rules for controlling the charging station: - If the customer temperature setpoint is low and the operator tariff is low and the irradiance forecast for the next day is "high" and the solar tariff is "low", turn on the charging station in the afternoon to maximize the use of solar energy (priority to cost-efficiency ratio); - If the predicted irradiance for the following day is "average" and the operator's rate is "low" So: Turn on the charging station in the morning to recharge the battery at a lower cost; - If the predicted irradiance for the following day is "average" and the solar tariff is "high" So: Turn on the charging station in the afternoon to maximize the use of solar energy.

[0160] A second example is now described.

[0161] The entries are as follows: - Irradiance (J+l): Very low, Low, Medium, High, Very high; - Temperature (J+l): Very cold, Cold, Comfortable, Warm, Very warm; - Customer temperature setting: Very low, Low, Medium, High, Very high; - Customer hot water setting: Very low, Low, Medium, High, Very high; - Operator rate: Very low, Low, Medium, High, Very high; - Solar tariff: Very low, Low, Medium, High, Very high; - Time of day: Night, Early morning, Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening, Night.

[0162] The outputs are as follows: - Optimal start time: Night, Early morning, Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening; - Control commands (On / Off): Charging station, Water heater, Heat pump.

[0163] The membership functions in this example are: - Irradiance: • Very low: 0 < Irradiance < 100 W / m2; • Low: 101 < Irradiance < 300 W / m2; • Average: 301 < Irradiance < 600 W / m2; • High: 601 < Irradiance < 900 W / m2; • Very high: Irradiance > 900 W / m2. - Temperature : • Very cold: Temperature < 12°C; • Cold: 13 < Temperature < 16°C; • Comfortable: 17 < Temperature < 22°C; • Hot: 23 < Temperature < 26°C; • Very hot: Temperature > 26°C. - Customer temperature setting: • Very low: 12 < Temperature setpoint < 15°C; • Low: 16 < Temperature setpoint < 19°C; • Average: 20 < Temperature setpoint < 23°C; • High: 24 < Temperature setpoint < 27°C; • Very high: Temperature setting > 27°C. - Customer hot water instruction: • Very low: 0 < Hot water setpoint < 20%; • Low: 21 < Hot water setpoint < 40%; • Average: 41 < Hot water setpoint < 60%; • High: 61 < Hot water setpoint < 80%; • Very high: Hot water setpoint > 80%. - Operator rate: • Very low: 0 < Tariff < €0.05 / kWh; • Low: 0.06 < Tariff < €0.10 / kWh; • Average: 0.11 < Tariff < 0.15 € / kWh; • High: 0.16 < Tariff <0.20 € / kWh; • Very high: Price > €0.20 / kWh. - Solar tariff: • Very low: 0 < Tariff < €0.05 / kWh; • Low: 0.06 < Tariff < €0.10 / kWh; • Average: 0.11 < Tariff < 0.15 € / kWh; • High: 0.16 < Tariff < €0.20 / kWh; • Very high: Price > €0.20 / kWh. - Time of day: • Night: 00:00 < Time < 06:00; • Early morning: 06:01 < Time < 07:30; • Morning: 07:31 < Time < 09:00; • Noon: 09:01 < Time < 14:00; • Afternoon: 14:01 < Time < 18:00; • Evening: 18:01 < Time < 20:00; • Night: 20:01 < Time < 00:00.

[0164] The following are examples of vague rules for heat pump control: - If the irradiance is very low and the temperature is very cold and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High, then the optimal start time for heating is early morning to maintain the heat; - If the irradiance is low and the temperature is cold, and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High, then the optimal heating start time is in the morning to use solar energy and ensure comfort; - If the irradiance is average and the temperature is cold, and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High, then the heating can start in the morning or at noon to balance solar energy with comfort; - If the irradiance is high and the temperature is cold, and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High or Medium, then the heating should start at noon to maximize the use of solar energy; - If the irradiance is very high and the temperature is cold, and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High or Medium, then the heating may start at noon or in the afternoon to manage the solar overproduction; - If the irradiance is very low and the temperature is comfortable, and the customer temperature setting is High or Very High or Medium, then the heating should start early in the morning to maintain the heat; - If the irradiance is low and the temperature is comfortable, and the customer temperature setpoint is Low or Very Low or Medium then the heating should start in the morning to use solar energy; - If the irradiance is average and the temperature is comfortable, and the customer temperature setpoint is High or Very High or Medium then the heating can start in the morning or at noon to balance solar energy with comfort; - If the irradiance is high and the temperature is comfortable, and the customer temperature setpoint is Low or Very Low then heating is not necessary to save energy; - If the irradiance is very high and the temperature is comfortable, and the customer temperature setpoint is Low or Very Low then heating is not necessary and air conditioning can be activated for comfort.

[0165] It should be noted that these rules can be further refined according to the specifics of the system and the needs of the users.

[0166] The following are examples of vague rules for controlling the water heater: - If the hot water setpoint is very low and the irradiance is very low, then the optimal start time is set as "Night"; - If the hot water setpoint is very low and the irradiance is low, then the water heater can be activated for a short time to use solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Early morning"; - If the hot water setpoint is very low and the irradiance is average, then the water heater can be activated for a longer period to maximize the use of solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning"; - If the hot water setpoint is very low and the irradiance is high, then the water heater can be activated for most of the day to take advantage of solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning" or "Midday"; - If the hot water setpoint is very low and the irradiance is very high, then the water heater can be activated all day to maximize the use of solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning" or "Midday" or "Afternoon"; - If the hot water setpoint is low and the irradiance is very low, the optimal start time is defined as "Night"; - If the hot water setpoint is low and the irradiance is low, then the water heater can be activated for a short time to use solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Early morning"; - If the hot water setpoint is low and the irradiance is average, then the water heater can be activated for a moderate duration to balance solar energy with the hot water requirement. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning" or "Midday"; - If the hot water setpoint is low and the irradiance is high, then the water heater can be activated for a large part of the day to maximize the use of solar energy. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning" or "Noon" or "Afternoon"; - If the hot water setpoint is low and the irradiance is very high, then the water heater can be activated taking into account the solar tariff to avoid overproduction. The optimal start time is defined as "Morning," "Midday," or "Afternoon."

[0167] The following are examples of vague rules for controlling the charging station: - If the irradiance is very high and the solar tariff is very low, then the start time of the charging station is early in the morning (maximum priority to solar energy); - If the irradiance is high and the solar tariff is very low or low, then the start time of the charging station is early morning or morning (priority to solar energy); - If the irradiance is average and the solar tariff is very low or low, then the start time of the charging station is in the morning or midday (balance between solar energy and vehicle charging); - If the irradiance is low and the solar tariff is very low, then the start time of the charging station is midday or afternoon (priority to solar energy while limiting the discharge of the network); - If the irradiance is very low or the solar tariff is high, the charging station should not be activated (priority to energy saving).

[0168] Note that these rules assume that the electric vehicle is plugged into the charging station. The system can also integrate information on the vehicle's charge level to refine activation decisions.

[0169] In another embodiment, to define the first optimized individual consumption profiles for the devices 2, the processing unit 16 (or a server 23 of the cloud 24, driven by the processing unit 16) performs at least one inference of at least one machine learning model.

[0170] Again, the optimization takes into account several variables such as the predicted irradiance for the following day, the predicted outside temperature for the following day, the customer's instructions for temperature and hot water, as well as operator and solar tariffs. The main objective of this optimization is to determine the optimal time to start the devices, and for example the charging station, the hot water tank, and the heat pump, based on the forecasted weather conditions and the customer's preferences.

[0171] The model is, for example, an artificial neural network (ANN) or a reinforcement learning algorithm (RL). Here, an artificial neural network is used.

[0172] The processing unit 16 first performs a data collection, for a certain time.

[0173] The data collected include "historical" data, and for example data on solar irradiance, outside temperature, energy tariffs, domestic energy consumption, etc.

[0174] The data collected also includes data obtained in real time, via measurements taken by the sensors.

[0175] Processing unit 16 implements a preprocessing of the collected data. The processing unit 16 cleans and normalizes the collected data to make it compatible with the model used.

[0176] The data collected are divided into a training data set and a test data set.

[0177] The model is designed as follows.

[0178] A model is designed with input layers corresponding to the input parameters used (for example: irradiance, temperature, customer setpoints, energy tariffs).

[0179] Hidden layers are used to capture complex nonlinear relationships between variables.

[0180] An output layer is added to predict the optimal startup times of the devices.

[0181] The model is then trained in the processing unit 16 or, preferably, on a server (for example, from the cloud 24), using backpropagation and optimization techniques to minimize the prediction error.

[0182] The model is then validated on the test dataset to evaluate its performance.

[0183] Each day in progress, the processing unit 16 performs an inference of the previously trained model to make real-time predictions and define optimized profiles based on meteorological data and customer preferences.

[0184] The device start-up times are adjusted accordingly.

[0185] The use of a machine learning model has the following advantages. Increased accuracy: Machine learning models, particularly those based on neural networks, can capture complex relationships between variables, which can lead to more accurate predictions. - adaptability: machine learning models, particularly those based on neural networks, can adapt to new data and changes in environmental conditions or customer preferences. - Continuous optimization: Machine learning models, especially those based on neural networks, can be continuously updated and improved as new data is collected.

[0186] During the execution of a model inference, performed by the processing unit 16 (or by a server), the inputs applied as input to the model are, for example: - an irradiance predicted for the specified period (here for the following day); - a temperature forecast for the specified period (here for the following day); - at least one user setting (temperature and hot water); - at least one energy tariff (for example operator and solar).

[0187] The output of the model is, for example, the optimal start-up time of the equipment (charging station, water heater, heat pump).

[0188] Using this approach, the algorithm aims to optimize the use of available energy, reduce dependence on traditional energy sources, and achieve significant energy savings for users. Furthermore, by taking into account weather forecasts and customer preferences, the algorithm can intelligently schedule the operation of electrical equipment, thereby contributing to more efficient use of energy resources.

[0189] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0190] It has been described here that the management equipment 14 controls the electrical devices 2 via a centralized module 29 and remote modules 28. These modules are optional. The management equipment could control one or more devices without using a centralized module, and even directly, without using either a centralized or remote module.

[0191] A distinction has been made here between first means of communication and second means of communication of the management equipment. These first and second means of communication can be grouped entirely or partially into the same module.

[0192] The determined period is not necessarily the following day; it may also be a different "future" period, for example the following week, the following two days, etc.

[0193] Not all steps of the optimization process are necessarily performed on the processing unit; some could be performed on other equipment, for example on one or more cloud servers. For example, the fuzzy logic algorithm can be run in the cloud. Similarly, as we have seen, if a machine learning model is used, it can be trained in the cloud. The execution of inferences from the trained model can also be performed in the cloud.

[0194] The renewable energy source does not necessarily include a photovoltaic panel. It could be another energy source, for example a wind turbine.

[0195] The management equipment can be installed anywhere within the installation. It can be integrated into equipment performing other functions (e.g., a meter). The same management equipment could be connected to several installations.

[0196] Expected individual consumption profiles and optimized individual profiles can be defined for groups of devices (several radiators for example).

Claims

Demands

1. A method for optimizing the overall electrical consumption of an installation (1) comprising devices (2) and connected to a renewable energy source (3), the optimization method comprising the first steps, carried out before a specified period, of: - acquiring measurements of the overall electrical consumption of the installation (1); - implementing a disaggregation method so as to predict, from said measurements, for each device, an expected individual consumption profile (C1) of said device as a function of time during the specified period; - predicting an expected renewable production profile (C2) by the renewable energy source as a function of time during the specified period;- adapt the expected individual consumption profile of at least one device according to the expected renewable production profile, to define first optimized individual consumption profiles (C3) for the devices, allowing to maximize the use of renewable electrical energy, produced by the renewable energy source, to power the devices (2) during the determined period; the optimization process further comprising the second step, implemented during the determined period, of controlling the devices using the first optimized individual consumption profiles.

2. Optimization method according to claim 1, wherein the expected individual consumption profile of at least one device is also adapted, to obtain the first optimized individual consumption profile of said device, according to a user setpoint and / or an energy tariff.

3. Optimization method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the prediction of the expected renewable production profile (C2) uses weather forecasts for the specified period.

4. Optimization method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, for at least one device (2), the prediction of the expected individual consumption profile (Cl) of said device uses weather forecasts for the specified period.

5. Optimization method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps, following implementation of the disaggregation method, of: - classifying each device (2) into at least one category from a group of categories comprising at least three categories from: interruptible device, non-interruptible device, device forming a predominantly resistive load, device forming a predominantly inductive load, device having a displaceable consumption per block; - defining the first individual optimized consumption profiles according to this classification.

6. Optimization method according to claim 5, wherein, for an interruptible device, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile comprises the steps of: - deactivating the interruptible device during at least a first period of low availability of renewable electrical energy; - reactivating the interruptible device during at least a first period of high availability of renewable electrical energy; - the first period of low availability and the first period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

7. Optimization method according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein, for a device forming a predominantly resistive load, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile includes the steps of: - reducing the power consumed by said device during at least a second period of low availability of renewable electrical energy; - spread the power consumed over an extended period or increase the power consumed by said resistive device during at least a second period of high availability of renewable electrical energy; the second period of low availability and the second period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

8. Optimization method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, for a device having block-shiftable consumption, the adaptation of the expected individual consumption profile includes the step of temporally shifting a consumption of said device without changing a shape of said profile from a third period (D1, D2, D3) of low availability of renewable electrical energy to a third period (D'1, D'2, D'3) of high availability of renewable electrical energy; the third period of low availability and the third period of high availability belonging to the determined period.

9. An optimization method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the second steps, during the specified period, of: - monitoring in real time a current production of the renewable energy source (3) and / or a change in weather conditions and / or a current electrical consumption of at least one device (2); - adapting the first optimized individual consumption profiles according to the results of this monitoring, to produce second optimized individual consumption profiles for the devices; - controlling the devices using the second optimized individual consumption profiles.

10. Optimization method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of implementing a fuzzy logic algorithm (35) to define the first optimized individual consumption profile of at least one device (2).

11. Optimization method according to claim 10, wherein the fuzzy logic algorithm (35) has as inputs (36) several quantities among: - an irradiance predicted for the determined period; - a temperature forecast for the specified period; - at least one user setpoint; - at least one energy tariff.

12. Optimization method according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the fuzzy logic algorithm (35) has as output (37) an optimal startup time for said device.

13. Optimization method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the step of performing an inference of a previously trained machine learning model to define the first optimized individual consumption profile of at least one device (2).

14. Optimization method according to claim 13, wherein the machine learning model has as inputs several quantities from among: - a predicted irradiance for the determined period; - a predicted temperature for the determined period; - at least one user setpoint; - at least one energy tariff.

15. Optimization method according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the machine learning model outputs an optimal startup time for said device.

16. Management equipment (14), arranged to control the devices (2) of the installation (1), and comprising a processing unit (16) in which at least some of the steps of the optimization process according to one of the preceding claims are implemented.

17. Computer program comprising instructions that cause the processing unit (16) of the management equipment (14) of claim 16 to perform the steps of the optimization process according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

18. Computer-readable recording medium on which the computer program according to claim 17 is recorded.

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