Energy management system, energy management method, and computer program

Abstract

To provide a technique for suppressing voltage fluctuation in a distribution line in an energy management system.SOLUTION: An energy management system comprises a control unit which controls a power supply to a power consumption apparatus and creates a power consumption schedule of the power consumption apparatus, and an output unit which outputs the power consumption schedule which is created by the control unit. The control unit includes: an acquisition section for acquiring adjustment information relating to the time for functioning a power adjuster an electric vehicle comprises by connecting the electric vehicle to a distribution line and apparatus information relating to power consumption of the power consumption apparatus; and a creation section for creating a new power consumption schedule in which the time for supplying power to the power consumption apparatus is included in the time for functioning the power adjuster by using the adjustment information and the apparatus information which are acquired by the acquisition section. The output unit outputs the new power consumption schedule which is created by the creation section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an energy management system, an energy management method, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Energy management systems that control the amount of power consumption in a home have been known (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-67760 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even with the prior art such as that of Patent Document 1, there is still room for improvement in the technology for suppressing voltage fluctuations in power distribution lines in energy management systems.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a technique for suppressing voltage fluctuations in power distribution lines in an energy management system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve at least part of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized in the following aspects.

[0007] (1) According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an energy management system connected to an electric vehicle and power consumption devices that consume power via a power distribution line. The electric vehicle connected to the energy management system includes a power regulator that regulates reactive power in the power distribution line and a storage battery that is connected to the power distribution line via the power regulator, and is switchable between a connected state and a disconnected state from the power distribution line. The energy management system includes: a control unit that controls power supply to the power consumption devices and creates power consumption schedules for the power consumption devices; and an output unit that outputs the power consumption schedule created by the control unit. The control unit includes an acquisition unit that acquires adjustment information regarding times when the power regulator functions as a result of the electric vehicle being connected to the power distribution line and device information regarding power consumption by the power consumption devices. The control unit also includes: a creation unit that uses the adjustment information and the device information acquired by the acquisition unit to create a new power consumption schedule in which times when power is supplied to the power consumption devices are included in times when the power regulator functions. The output unit outputs the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit.

[0008] According to this configuration, the control unit creates a power consumption schedule so that the power consuming devices consume power during the time when the power regulator, which adjusts the reactive power in the distribution line when the electric vehicle is connected to the distribution line, is functioning. This allows the balance between active power and reactive power in the distribution line, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consuming devices, to be maintained by the function of the power regulator. Therefore, voltage fluctuations in the distribution line can be suppressed.

[0009] (2) In the energy management system of the above aspect, the system may be connected via the power distribution line to a photovoltaic power generation device that generates power by receiving sunlight, the acquisition unit may acquire power generation amount information regarding a predicted value of the power generation amount of the photovoltaic power generation device, and the creation unit may use the power generation amount information to create the new power consumption schedule so that, among the time periods during which power is supplied to the power consuming devices, the time periods during which the power regulator is not functioning are included in the time periods during which the power regulator is functioning and the photovoltaic power generation device is generating power. With this configuration, the time periods during which power is supplied to the power consuming devices are included in the time periods during which the power regulator is functioning and the photovoltaic power generation device is generating power. Therefore, the photovoltaic power generation device, which often operates at a constant power factor, can cover the power consumed by the power consuming devices. This allows the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device to be effectively used while suppressing voltage fluctuations on the power distribution line.

[0010] (3) In the energy management system of the above aspect, the acquisition unit may acquire change information regarding whether the time during which the power regulator functions is changeable, the creation unit may use the change information to create a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule for when the time during which the power regulator functions is changed, and the output unit may output the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit. According to this configuration, if the time during which the power regulator functions is changeable, the creation unit creates a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule based on the changeable time. This makes it possible to create a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule so that the time during which the power regulator functions further includes the time during which power is supplied to power consuming devices. This makes it possible to further suppress voltage fluctuations in the distribution line.

[0011] (4) In the energy management system of the above aspect, the output unit is a communications terminal held by a user of the energy management system, and the energy management system further includes a transmitter that transmits information related to the new proposed change to the power consumption schedule to the communications terminal and a receiver that receives a signal transmitted by the communications terminal, and when the transmitter transmits the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule, the communications terminal notifies the user to confirm whether or not the time during which the power regulator functions can be changed, and when approval information indicating that the time during which the power regulator functions can be changed is obtained, the communications terminal transmits the approval information as the signal, and when the receiver receives the approval information, the creation unit sets the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule, and the communications terminal outputs the new power consumption schedule. According to this configuration, if the time during which the power regulator functions can be changed, the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit is proposed to the user of the energy management system using the communications terminal. When a user operates the communication terminal to indicate that the time when the power regulator functions is changeable, approval information is transmitted, and the creation unit sets the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule, thereby further suppressing voltage fluctuations in the power distribution line.

[0012] (5) The energy management system of the above aspect further includes a storage unit that stores the impedance of the power distribution line, and the creation unit uses the impedance stored in the storage unit to calculate reactive power Q that satisfies equation (1). BEV The electric vehicle calculates the reactive power Q BEV may be output.

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[0013] (5) According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an energy management method for controlling power supply to a power consumer using an energy management system connected to an electric vehicle having a power regulator and a storage battery and a power consumer that consumes power via a power distribution line. The energy management method includes an acquisition step of acquiring adjustment information regarding a time during which the power regulator functions when the storage battery is connected to the power distribution line and device information regarding the power consumption of the power consumer; a creation step of creating a new power consumption schedule by modifying the power consumption schedule created using the device information using the adjustment information and the device information acquired in the acquisition step so that the time during which power is supplied to the power consumer is included in the time during which the power regulator functions; and an output step of outputting the new power consumption schedule created in the creation step. According to this configuration, in the creation step, the power consumption schedule is created so that the power consumer consumes power during the time during which the power regulator functions. As a result, the balance between active power and reactive power in the power distribution line, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consumer, is maintained by the power regulator, thereby suppressing voltage fluctuations in the power distribution line.

[0014] (6) According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program for causing a computer to execute control of power supply to power consuming devices in an energy management system connected via a power distribution line to an electric vehicle equipped with a power regulator and a storage battery, and to the power consuming devices. The computer program causes the computer to execute an acquisition function to acquire adjustment information regarding the time when the power regulator functions when the storage battery is connected to the power distribution line and device information regarding the power consumption of the power consuming devices, a creation function to create a new power consumption schedule by modifying the power consumption schedule created using the device information, using the adjustment information and the device information acquired by the acquisition function, so that the time when power is supplied to the power consuming devices is included in the time when the power regulator functions, and an output function to output the new power consumption schedule created by the creation function. According to this configuration, the creation function creates a power consumption schedule so that the power consuming devices consume power during the time when the power regulator functions. As a result, the balance between active power and reactive power in the distribution line, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consumption devices, is maintained by the adjustment function of the power regulator, so that voltage fluctuations in the distribution line can be suppressed.

[0015] The present invention can be realized in various forms, such as a controller having a control unit and an output unit, a system including a controller, a control method for these controllers and systems, a computer program for causing these controllers and systems to suppress voltage fluctuations in power distribution lines, a server device for distributing the computer program, and a non-transitory storage medium on which the computer program is stored. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between a power distribution system including an energy management system according to a first embodiment and devices connected to the power distribution system. [Figure 2]3 is a flowchart of an energy management method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating devices connected to an energy management system. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a sub-process of an energy management method. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a first diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a second diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a third diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a fourth diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 9] FIG. 5 is a fifth diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 10] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for calculating reactive power. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of calculating reactive power. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a first diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a second diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between a power distribution system equipped with an energy management system according to this embodiment and devices connected to the power distribution system. The energy management system 1 according to this embodiment controls the exchange of power between a distribution substation Pss and a residence H1. FIG. 1 shows a power distribution line PLm connecting the distribution substation Pss and the residence H1, a power distribution line PLs equipped in the residence H1, and various devices connected to the power distribution line PLs in the residence H1. The energy management system 1 installed in the residence H1 is connected to an electric vehicle 10, a solar power generation device 20, and multiple power consuming devices 30 via the power distribution line PLs, and includes a HEMS controller 40 and a communication terminal 50. Note that the location to which power is supplied by connecting to the distribution substation Pss via the power distribution line PLm is not limited to the residence H1. It may also be a factory, etc.

[0018] The electric vehicle 10 is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) that runs by operating a motor with power stored in a storage battery 11, and includes the storage battery 11 and a charger 12. The storage battery 11 is connected to a power distribution line PLs via the charger 12 and stores power supplied from the power distribution line PLs. The charger 12 is mounted on the electric vehicle 10 and has a connector (not shown) for connecting to the power distribution line PLs. The charger 12 has a power adjustment function that can adjust the reactive power in the connected power distribution line PLs. The charger 12 mounted on the electric vehicle 10 has a large capacity because the storage capacity of the storage battery 11 is large. This makes it possible to output reactive power corresponding to the consumption of active power, including that of power consumption devices 30 that consume power. The charger 12 corresponds to a "power adjuster" in the claims.

[0019] The solar power generation device 20 includes a solar panel 21 and a power conditioner (hereinafter simply referred to as "PCS") 22. The solar panel 21 generates electricity by receiving sunlight. The PCS 22 converts the direct current generated by the solar panel 21 into alternating current. Generally, the solar power generation device 20 controls the power factor to be constant in order to suppress a voltage rise due to reverse power flow in the distribution lines PLs, PLm. Therefore, when the solar panel 21 is generating electricity, the solar power generation device 20 flows reactive power corresponding to the active power generated by the solar panel 21 into the distribution lines PLs, PLm.

[0020] The power consuming devices 30 refer to devices that consume power supplied from the distribution substation Pss or power generated by the solar panel 21. In this embodiment, the power consuming devices 30 include a heat pump water heater 31 and an air conditioning system 32. However, the power consuming devices 30 are not limited to these.

[0021] The heat pump water heater 31 generates hot water by utilizing the heat of outdoor air. The heat pump water heater 31 consumes electricity when compressing the outdoor air. The heat pump water heater 31 can store the generated hot water in a tank (not shown). This allows the heat pump water heater 31 to generate hot water even when operating at times other than when hot water is needed, and the usage time can be changed.

[0022] The air conditioning equipment 32 is equipment capable of adjusting the temperature inside a room, such as an air conditioner (air conditioner). The air conditioning equipment 32 generates heat by compressing and liquefying a refrigerant using a compressor (not shown), and generates cold by expanding and vaporizing the refrigerant. The air conditioning equipment 32 consumes electricity when the compressor operates. The air conditioning equipment 32 cannot temporarily store the generated heat and cold, so its usage time cannot be changed.

[0023] The HEMS controller 40 has a computer including a ROM, a RAM, and a CPU. The HEMS controller 40 includes an information acquisition unit 41, a schedule creation unit 42, a transmitter / receiver unit 43 capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from the outside of the HEMS controller 40, and a storage unit 44 that stores various information related to the energy management system 1. In the HEMS controller 40, the CPU loads a computer program stored in the ROM into the RAM and executes it, thereby functioning as the information acquisition unit 41 and the schedule creation unit 42. Detailed functions of the HEMS controller 40 will be described later.

[0024] The communication terminal 50 is, for example, a mobile device such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet owned by a resident of the house H1 (a user of the energy management system 1). The communication terminal 50 has a display capable of displaying information related to power consumption transmitted from the transmitter / receiver 43 of the HEMS controller 40. The communication terminal 50 converts information reflecting user operations on the communication terminal 50 into a signal and transmits the signal to the transmitter / receiver 43. The communication terminal 50 corresponds to the "output unit" in the claims. Note that the "output unit" provided in the energy management system 1 is not limited to the communication terminal 50. It may also be a display provided in the HEMS controller 40 capable of displaying various information.

[0025] Next, an energy management method using the energy management system 1 of this embodiment will be described. The energy management method of this embodiment is premised on using the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 provided in the house H1 so as not to increase the electricity bill for the house H1. Note that the prerequisites for the energy management method of this embodiment are not limited to this. For example, a condition may be that there is an upper limit on the amount of power consumption.

[0026] 2 is a flowchart of the energy management method of this embodiment. Before starting the energy management method of this embodiment, the existing power consumption schedule, various information related to devices connected to the power distribution line PLs, and the resistance and reactance values ​​of the power distribution line PLm are stored in the memory unit 44 of the HEMS controller 40.

[0027] Before starting the energy management of this embodiment, the power consumption schedule stored in the storage unit 44 is an existing power consumption schedule. The power consumption schedule includes information on charging the storage battery 11 in the electric vehicle 10, power generation by the solar power generation device 20, and power consumption by the power consuming devices 30. In this embodiment, the existing power consumption schedule stored in the storage unit 44 is a power consumption schedule automatically created by the schedule creation unit 42 of the HEMS controller 40 using information on the usage time of the power consuming devices 30 input by the user. Alternatively, the existing power consumption schedule stored in the storage unit 44 may be created by the schedule creation unit 42 based on the past usage record of the power consuming devices 30.

[0028] Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating devices connected to the energy management system of this embodiment. In the energy management method of this embodiment, before starting the energy management method, for each of the multiple devices connected to the distribution line PLs of the house H1, information (device information) shown in Fig. 3, including the "device name," "power factor," "power factor adjustment function" indicating whether or not the device has a power factor adjustment function, "operation at rated output" indicating whether or not operation at rated output is required, and "power consumption schedule" indicating whether or not the usage time can be changed, is stored in the storage unit 44.

[0029] Before starting the energy management of this embodiment, the resistance value and reactance value of the distribution line PLm to be stored in the memory unit 44 are obtained, for example, by inquiring of the power distribution company when the energy management system 1 is installed in the house H1, and are then stored in the memory unit 44 using an input device (not shown). Note that the method for storing the resistance value and reactance value of the distribution line PLm in the memory unit 44 is not limited to this. The energy management method of this embodiment is started by the user operating a start button or the like, with this information stored in the memory unit 44.

[0030] In the energy management method of this embodiment, first, the HEMS controller 40 enters a standby state (step S11). In step S11, the HEMS controller 40 enters a standby state. When in the standby state, the HEMS controller 40 continuously monitors the amount of power consumption in the house H1 and accumulates the information related to the actual power consumption.

[0031] Next, it is determined whether it is time to check the power consumption schedule (step S12). In step S12, the information acquisition unit 41 determines whether it is time to check the power consumption schedule with the user. Here, the "preset time" may be, for example, every fixed time such as every three hours, or a time before power generation by the solar power generation device 20 starts, such as 7:00 AM. If the information acquisition unit 41 determines that it is time to check the power consumption schedule (step S12: YES), the process proceeds to step S13. If the information acquisition unit 41 determines that it is not time to check the power consumption schedule (step S12: NO), the process returns to step S11, and the HEMS controller 40 continues in the standby state.

[0032] If it is determined in step S12 that the time to check the power consumption schedule has arrived, the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 20 is predicted (step S13). In step S13, the information acquisition unit 41 acquires a predicted value (power generation amount information) of the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 20 after the time to check the power consumption schedule. Examples of the power generation amount information acquired by the information acquisition unit 41 include a method of prediction based on past power generation amounts, and a method of externally acquiring information on the power generation amount prediction according to the weather of the day using the transmission / reception unit 43.

[0033] Next, a power consumption schedule is acquired (step S14). In step S14, the information acquisition unit 41 acquires an existing power consumption schedule stored in the storage unit 44. In this embodiment, in step S14, the information acquisition unit 41 also acquires information (device information) related to a plurality of devices connected to the power distribution line PLs of the house H1, which is stored in the storage unit 44, along with the existing power consumption schedule.

[0034] Next, a usage schedule for the electric vehicle is acquired (step S15). In step S14, the information acquisition unit 41 acquires a usage schedule for the electric vehicle 10. The usage schedule for the electric vehicle 10 acquired by the information acquisition unit 41 may be a usage schedule registered in advance by the user himself or may be a usage schedule predicted using past usage records of the electric vehicle 10. The usage schedule for the electric vehicle 10 includes the time when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the distribution line PLs. When the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the distribution line PLs and the storage battery 11 is connected to the distribution line PLs via the charger 12, the power adjustment function of the charger 12 becomes active. Therefore, the usage schedule for the electric vehicle 10 includes information (adjustment information) regarding the time when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 becomes active. The usage schedule for the electric vehicle 10 will be described in detail below.

[0035] Next, it is determined whether the power consumption schedule can be changed (step S16). In step S16, the information acquisition unit 41 determines whether any power consumption device whose usage time can be changed is operating when the electric vehicle 10 is absent. The device information acquired by the information acquisition unit 41 in step S14 includes information regarding whether the usage time can be changed (information shown as "power consumption schedule" in FIG. 3), and the information acquisition unit 41 makes this determination using the power consumption schedule and device information acquired in step S14 and the usage schedule of the electric vehicle 10 acquired in step S15. If the information acquisition unit 41 determines that any power consumption device whose usage time can be changed is operating when the electric vehicle 10 is absent (step S16: YES), the process proceeds to step S17. If the information acquisition unit 41 determines that any power consumption device whose usage time can be changed is not operating when the electric vehicle 10 is absent (step S16: NO), the process returns to step S11, and the HEMS controller 40 continues in the standby state.

[0036] If it is determined in step S16 that the power consumption schedule can be changed, the schedule creation unit 42 considers changing the power consumption schedule (step S17). In step S17, the schedule creation unit 42 changes the power consumption schedule so that the time when the power consuming devices 30 consume power is included in the time when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a subprocess of the energy management method of this embodiment, showing the process performed in step S17. Here, a method for changing the power consumption schedule in step S17 will be described. The purpose of changing the power consumption schedule in step S17 is mainly to ensure that the power consumption devices scheduled to consume power when the electric vehicle 10 is absent consume power while the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the distribution line PLs. Connecting the electric vehicle 10 to the distribution line PLs enables the power adjustment function of the charger 12, making it possible to maintain a balance between active power and reactive power in the distribution lines PLm, PLs (the distribution system), thereby suppressing voltage fluctuations in the distribution system. In the following description, the direction of power supplied from the distribution substation Pss to the house H1 is assumed to be "positive." Therefore, the direction of power generated by the solar power generation device 20 is "negative," and the direction of power consumed by the power consumption devices 30 is "positive."

[0038] First, the currently set power consumption schedule is acquired (step S171). In step S171, the schedule creation unit 42 reads the existing power consumption schedule acquired by the information acquisition unit 41 in step S14.

[0039] Next, the time for which the electric vehicle is connected to the distribution line is confirmed (step S172). In step S172, the schedule creation unit 42 reads the time for which the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the distribution line PLs, using the use schedule for the electric vehicle 10 acquired by the information acquisition unit 41 in step S15. As described above, the time for which the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the distribution line PLs is the time for which the power adjustment function of the charger 12 described above is enabled. Specifically, the time for which the electric vehicle 10 will return home to the house H1 is read in accordance with the time for which use of the power consumption device 30 is required.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a first diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates the power consumption schedule for the residence H1 and the use schedule for the electric vehicle 10, with time on the same axis. The horizontal axis of FIG. 5 represents time, and the vertical axis represents power. In FIG. 5, the solid line PV20 indicates the change over time in the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 20, and the amount of power consumed by each device included in the energy management system 1 is shown in time intervals, for example, every hour. In FIG. 5, the hourly power consumption required to charge the storage battery 11 included in the electric vehicle 10 is indicated by symbol Da, the hourly power consumption required to operate the heat pump water heater 31 is indicated by symbol D1, and the hourly power consumption required to operate the air conditioning equipment 32 is indicated by symbol D2. Note that, for convenience, the method for changing the power consumption schedule will be described using the hourly power consumption of each device, but the time intervals do not have to be hourly.

[0041] The band display B10 shown in Fig. 5 indicates the usage state of the electric vehicle 10. In the band display B10, the time when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs is indicated by a portion B11 ("At Home"), and the time when the electric vehicle 10 is not connected to the power distribution line PLs is indicated by a portion B12 ("Out"). When the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs, the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled, as described above. In the existing power consumption schedule acquired in step S14, as shown in Fig. 5, it can be seen that the heat pump water heater 31 is scheduled to operate during the time when the electric vehicle 10 is away ("Out").

[0042] Next, the power consumption schedule of the power consuming device 30 whose usage time is changeable is changed (step S173). In step S173, the schedule creation unit 42 changes the power consumption schedule of the power consuming device 30 whose usage time is changeable so that part of the time during which the power consuming device 30 consumes power is included in the time during which the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled as a result of the storage battery 11 of the electric vehicle 10 being connected to the power distribution line PLs. In this embodiment, the heat pump water heater 31 is selected as the power consuming device 30 whose usage time is changeable (see FIG. 3). Note that, when multiple power consuming devices 30 connected to the power distribution line PLs have their usage time changeable, priorities for changing the power consumption schedule may be set. As a result, the power consumption schedule is changed so that the power consuming device with a higher priority can consume power earlier.

[0043] Fig. 6 is a second diagram illustrating a method for changing the power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. Fig. 6 shows the power consumption schedule after changing part of the time period during which power is consumed by the selected power consuming device 30 (heat pump water heater 31) in step S173. In changing the power consumption schedule in step S173, part of the power consumption amount D1 of the heat pump water heater 31 is incorporated into the time period after time t1, when the electric vehicle 10 returns home. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, the power consumption amount for the last hour of the power consumption schedule for the heat pump water heater 31 is changed to be incorporated into the hour immediately after the electric vehicle 10 returns home (see symbol D11 in Fig. 6).

[0044] Next, the active power scheduled for charging the storage battery 11 is stored as the active power before the change (step S174). In step S174, the schedule creation unit 42 stores the active power P scheduled for charging the electric vehicle 10 at the time when the part of the power consumed by the heat pump water heater 31 is incorporated. BEV_変更前in the storage unit 44. Specifically, the schedule creation unit 42 stores in the storage unit 44 the amount of power consumption Da from time t1 to time t2, which is included in the amount of power consumption due to charging of the electric vehicle 10 and is shown in FIG.

[0045] Next, the active power for charging the storage battery 11 after the change is calculated (step S175). In step S175, the schedule creation unit 42 calculates the active power for charging the electric vehicle 10 at the time when the power generation amount PV20 of the photovoltaic power generation device 20 is set as the upper limit of the power consumption amount and the part of the power consumed by the heat pump water heater 31 is incorporated, as the changed active power P BEV_候補1 It is calculated as follows.

[0046] Fig. 7 is a third diagram illustrating a method for changing the power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of the portion enclosed by the two-dot chain line A in Fig. 6. The amount of power consumption from the scheduled time t1 when the electric vehicle 10 returns home to time t2 is expressed by the following equation (2), as shown in Fig. 7, by incorporating a portion of the power consumed by the heat pump water heater 31.

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[0047] FIG. 7 shows the active power P of the solar power generation device 20 from time t1 to time t2. PV (See the solid line PV20 in FIG. 7). Here, the active power P of the photovoltaic power generation device 20 from time t1 to time t2 is PVrefers to the minimum power from time t1 to time t2, as shown in Fig. 7. For example, in Fig. 7, the active power gradually decreases from time t1 to time t2, and the power is minimum at time t2. Therefore, the active power P PV is the power at time t2.

[0048] In step S175, the schedule creation unit 42 calculates the magnitude of the value shown in equation (2) and the effective power P PV Absolute value of |P PV The magnitude of | is compared with that of |, and the active power that can be charged to the storage battery 11, that is, the active power for charging the storage battery 11 after the change, is calculated based on the magnitude relationship. Specifically, the magnitude of the value calculated from equation (2) is PV Absolute value of |P PV If the effective power P BEV_変更前 The effective power P for charging the storage battery 11 after the change BEV_候補1 The magnitude of the value calculated from equation (2) is the active power P PV Absolute value of |P PV If the value is greater than the magnitude of |, the value calculated by the following formula (3) is used as the active power P for charging the storage battery 11 after the change. BEV_候補1 (See Figure 7).

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[0049] Next, the active power for charging the storage battery 11 is calculated taking into account the reactive power (step S176). In step S176, the schedule creation unit 42 calculates the active power P BEV_候補1 In step S176, first, it is determined whether the storage battery 11 is chargeable or not. BEV_候補1 When charging the storage battery 11, the provisional value Q of the reactive power output by the electric vehicle 10 is BEV_暫定 The provisional value of reactive power Q is calculated using the following equation (4).BEV_暫定 The fact that is expressed by the following equation (4) will be described in detail later.

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[0050] Active power P in the solar power generation device 20 PV , reactive power Q PV , and power factor pf PV The relationship is as follows:

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[0051] Power factor pf of the solar power generation device 20 during power generation PV is a negative value as shown in the device list in FIG. 3, so the active power P PV and reactive power Q PV In addition, the active power P output by the solar power generation device 20 is PV is a negative value because it is generated by power generation. PV Absolute value of |Q PV | can be calculated from the following equation (6).

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[0052] In step S176, the provisional value Q of the reactive power calculated using equation (4) is BEV_暫定 and the capacity S of the charger 12 BEVand the equation (6), the upper limit value P of the active power that can be output to charge the storage battery 11 of the electric vehicle 10 is calculated. BEV_候補2 Calculate.

[0053] 8 is a fourth diagram illustrating a method for changing the power consumption schedule according to the present embodiment. BEV_暫定 and the capacity S of the charger 12 BEV and the upper limit P of the active power that can be output to charge the storage battery 11. BEV_候補2 From the relationship in FIG. 8, the upper limit value P BEV_候補2 is calculated using the following equation (7):

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[0054] In step S176, the active power P BEV_候補1 and the upper limit of the active power P BEV_候補2 and compare the effective power P BEV_候補1 By checking whether charging is possible, the effective power P BEV_変更後 Determine.

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[0055] Next, the active power to be allocated to the next time period for charging the storage battery 11 is calculated (step S177). In step S177, the schedule creation unit 42 calculates the active power ΔP to be allocated to the time period following the time period considered up to the immediately preceding step S176. BEV is calculated using equation (9).

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[0056] Next, it is determined whether the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 can cover the power consumption of the devices scheduled to consume power (step S178). In step S178, the schedule creation unit 42 determines, for devices scheduled to consume power and whose usage time periods are changeable, whether the entire time the power is consumed is during the time the solar power generation device 20 is generating power and is included in the time the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs. If it is determined that the power consumption of the devices scheduled to consume power can be covered by the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 (step S178: YES), the created power consumption schedule is saved in the storage unit 44, and the change of the power consumption schedule is terminated. If it is determined that the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 cannot cover the power consumption of the devices scheduled to consume power (step S178: NO), the process proceeds to step S179.

[0057] If it is determined in step S178 that the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 is not enough to cover the power consumption of the devices scheduled to consume power, the schedule creation unit 42 determines whether or not the predetermined number of reviews has been performed (step S179). If the schedule creation unit 42 determines that the predetermined number of reviews has been performed (step S179: YES), the change of the current power consumption schedule is terminated. In this case, the power consumption schedule created in step S17 does not cover the power consumption of the devices scheduled to consume power during the time when the solar power generation device 20 is generating power. If the schedule creation unit 42 determines that the predetermined number of reviews has not been performed (step S179: NO), the process proceeds to step S170.

[0058] If the schedule creation unit 42 determines in step S179 that the review has not been performed the preset number of times, it changes the power consumption schedules of the power consuming devices for different times (step S170). In step S170, the schedule creation unit 42 changes the time that is not included in the time when the solar power generation device 20 is generating power, among the times when power consumption is scheduled for the power consuming devices 30 whose usage times are changeable and selected in step S173, to a time when the solar power generation device 20 is generating power and when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs.

[0059] FIG. 9 is a fifth diagram illustrating a method for changing the power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. FIG. 9 shows the power consumption schedule at the time when the determination in step S178 is completed. The power consumption schedule shown in FIG. 9 is the power consumption schedule immediately after considering changes to power consumption from time t1, which is the time when the electric vehicle 10 returns home, to time t2. Specifically, from time t1 to time t2, the power consumed is the sum of the hourly power consumption D2 required for the operation of the air conditioning equipment 32, the hourly power consumption D11 (=D1) for the operation of the heat pump water heater 31, and the hourly power consumption Da1 for charging the storage battery 11 provided in the electric vehicle 10, and this amount is kept within the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 20 from time t1 to time t2. Note that in FIG. 9, the active power ΔP to be allocated to the next hour calculated in step S177 from time t2 to time t3 is BEV The corresponding hourly power consumption Das is added.

[0060] Fig. 10 is a sixth diagram illustrating a method for changing the power consumption schedule of this embodiment. Fig. 10 shows the content performed in step S170. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 10, the power consumption D12 (=D1) per hour for operating the heat pump water heater 31 between time t2 and time t3 is incorporated. Therefore, in the power consumption schedule shown in Fig. 10, the power consumption D2 per hour required for operating the air conditioning equipment 32 between time t2 and time t3, the power consumption D12 per hour for operating the heat pump water heater 31, the power consumption Da per hour for charging the storage battery 11 provided in the electric vehicle 10, and the active power ΔP allocated to the next hour for charging the storage battery 11 provided in the electric vehicle 10 are included. BEV10, the total of the power consumptions D2, D12, Da, and Das is greater than the power generation amount PV20 of the photovoltaic power generation device 20. Therefore, from this point onward, in steps S173 to S177, the power consumption per hour for charging the storage battery 11 is adjusted, and the effective power P for charging the storage battery 11 between time t2 and time t3 is adjusted. BEV_変更後 In step S17, the examinations from step S173 to step S177 are repeated in this manner, and a new power consumption schedule is determined by modifying the existing power consumption schedule so that the times when the power consuming devices 30, the usage times of which are changeable, overlap most closely with the times when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs.

[0061] Returning to FIG. 2 , after step S17, the determined new power consumption schedule is transmitted to the communication terminal (step S18). In step S18, the HEMS controller 40 transmits the new power consumption schedule to the communication terminal 50 using the transmitter / receiver 43. In this embodiment, the HEMS controller 40 transmits, together with the new power consumption schedule, information for displaying a selection screen that allows the user to select whether or not to approve the new power consumption schedule. The communication terminal 50 displays the new power consumption schedule and the selection screen on its own display.

[0062] Next, it is determined whether the new power consumption schedule has been approved (step S19). In step S19, the user operates the communication terminal 50 to select whether the new power consumption schedule is approved. The schedule creation unit 42 receives information transmitted from the communication terminal 50 via the transceiver unit 43, and determines whether the new power consumption schedule has been approved based on the user's selection. If the schedule creation unit 42 determines that the new power consumption schedule has been approved (step S19: YES), the process proceeds to step S20, where the current power consumption schedule is changed to the new power consumption schedule. If the schedule creation unit 42 determines that the new power consumption schedule has not been approved (step S19: NO), the process returns to step S11, and the system enters a standby state. In this manner, the energy management method of this embodiment creates a power consumption schedule.

[0063] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a method for calculating reactive power. Next, a method for calculating reactive power output by the electric vehicle 10 in the energy management system 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 shows a distribution line PLm connecting a distribution substation Pss and a power receiving point PP1. In the relationship shown in FIG. 11, the voltage of the distribution substation Pss, which is the sending end, is V S The voltage at the receiving end, PP1, is V r If the resistance of the distribution line PLm is R and the reactance is X, then the voltage V of the distribution substation Pss is S and the voltage V at the receiving point PP1 r The relationship between these is expressed by the following equation (10).

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[0064] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of calculating reactive power. Fig. 12 shows the active power P and reactive power Q at each part in a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the power distribution system equipped with the energy management system of this embodiment shown in Fig. 1. For the distribution line PLm, resistance R and reactance X are shown as impedance. The relationship of the active power P in Fig. 12 is expressed by the following equation (11).

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[0065] Using equations (11) and (12), the numerator (RP) of the second term on the right side of equation (10) is calculated. r +XQ r ) becomes 0, the following equation (13) is obtained.

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[0066] In solar power generation systems installed in homes and factories for purposes such as reducing carbon dioxide emissions, excess electricity generated that cannot be used by the home may flow back to the distribution line. However, if the amount of electricity flowing back is large, the voltage on the distribution line rises, and if the voltage exceeds the upper limit, power generation by the solar power generation system is suppressed, resulting in wasted power. Therefore, constant power factor control may be implemented as a method to avoid voltage increases on the distribution line. Constant power factor control is a control that outputs reactive power in proportion to the amount of active power generated by the solar power generation system. Constant power factor control suppresses voltage fluctuations on the distribution line by maintaining an appropriate ratio between active power and reactive power.

[0067] However, if the balance between active power and reactive power is disrupted, the voltage of the distribution line fluctuates. For example, when the active power generated by a solar power generation system is charged into a storage battery, the proportion of reactive power in the distribution line increases, which can cause the voltage to drop and exceed the allowable voltage limit. Therefore, to utilize the power of a solar power generation system that uses constant power factor control (CPFC), which is relatively widespread, without causing voltage fluctuations, it is necessary to maintain the ratio of active power to reactive power in the distribution line when storing power in a storage battery. The storage battery charges and discharges while maintaining a constant power factor at the receiving point. This enables charging and discharging without fluctuating the voltage of the distribution system. By operating in this manner, users can effectively utilize the power generated by their own solar power generation system. In this case, the storage battery can adjust reactive power, including power consumed by power-consuming devices other than the storage battery. Therefore, by owning a storage battery, the active power of a solar power generation system installed in a home or the active power generated by a solar power generation system flowing through a distribution line can be utilized without causing voltage fluctuations in the distribution line.

[0068] One candidate for a storage battery in a home is a storage battery installed in an electric vehicle. The storage battery in an electric vehicle has a relatively large capacity and can store a large amount of power. Furthermore, since electric vehicles are primarily purchased for transportation purposes, they are easier to install than stationary storage batteries. By utilizing the storage battery in an electric vehicle for energy management in a home or other facility, users can eliminate the need to install a separate stationary storage battery, thereby creating an environment in which power generated by a solar power generation system can be utilized at a relatively low cost. However, unlike stationary storage batteries, electric vehicles are moved according to the user's convenience, and there are times when the electric vehicle's storage battery cannot output reactive power.

[0069] According to the energy management system 1 of the present embodiment described above, the HEMS controller 40 changes the power consumption schedule so that the power consuming devices 30 consume power during the time when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled as a result of the electric vehicle 10 being connected to the power distribution line PLs. This allows the power adjustment function of the charger 12 to maintain the balance between active power and reactive power in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consuming devices 30. This makes it possible to suppress voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs.

[0070] Furthermore, according to the energy management system 1 of this embodiment, the new power consumption schedule specifies that the time when power is supplied to the power consuming devices 30 is the time when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 provided in the electric vehicle 10 is enabled and is included in the time when the solar power generation device 20 is generating power, so that the power consumed by the power consuming devices 30 can be covered by the solar power generation device 20 operating at a constant power factor. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 while suppressing voltage fluctuations in the distribution lines PLm, PLs.

[0071] Furthermore, according to the energy management system 1 of this embodiment, the electric vehicle 10 generates reactive power Q BEVThis makes it possible to further suppress voltage fluctuations in the distribution lines PLm and PLs.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the energy management method of the present embodiment, in step S17, a power consumption schedule is created such that the power consuming devices 30 consume power during times when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled. As a result, the balance between the active power and the reactive power in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consuming devices 30, is maintained by the charger 12, and voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs can be suppressed more effectively than when the reactive power in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs is not adjusted.

[0073] Furthermore, according to the computer program of the present embodiment, the CPU of the HEMS controller 40 creates a power consumption schedule such that the power consuming devices 30 consume power during times when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled. As a result, the balance between active power and reactive power in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs, which changes depending on the power consumption of the power consuming devices 30, is maintained by the power adjustment function of the charger 12, and voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs can be suppressed more effectively than when the reactive power in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs is not adjusted.

[0074] Second Embodiment The energy management system of the second embodiment differs from the energy management system of the first embodiment in that the schedule creation unit creates a proposed change to the power consumption schedule when the time that the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs is changed.

[0075] The energy management system of the second embodiment is connected to an electric vehicle 10, a solar power generation device 20, and a plurality of power consuming devices 30 via a power distribution line PLs, and includes a HEMS controller 40 and a communication terminal 50.

[0076] An information acquisition unit 41 included in the HEMS controller 40 of this embodiment acquires change information regarding whether the time that the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs can be changed. A schedule creation unit 42 included in the HEMS controller 40 of this embodiment uses the change information to create a new proposed change to the power consumption schedule when the time that the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs is changed.

[0077] Fig. 13 is a first diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. Fig. 13 shows a new power consumption schedule Sc1 determined in step S17 of the energy management method according to the first embodiment, and a proposed change Sc2 to the new power consumption schedule when the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 is changed relative to the new power consumption schedule Sc1. Specifically, a band B20 shown in the proposed change Sc2 to the new power consumption schedule includes a portion B21 ("Home") indicating the time when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs and a portion B22 ("Out") indicating the time when the electric vehicle 10 is not connected to the power distribution line PLs. When the time when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs is changeable, the schedule creation unit 42 according to this embodiment uses the new power consumption schedule Sc1 to create a proposed change Sc2 to the new power consumption schedule when the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 is advanced by, for example, one hour. 13, for example, the power consumption from time t0 to time t1 will be the power consumption D2 required for operating the air conditioning equipment 32 while the user is at home, plus the power consumption Da for charging the storage battery 11 of the electric vehicle 10 and the power consumption D1 for operating the heat pump water heater 31. This makes it possible to effectively use the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 from time t0 to time t1 that was not used for power consumption in the new power consumption schedule Sc1.

[0078] FIG. 14 is a second diagram illustrating a method for changing a power consumption schedule according to this embodiment. FIG. 14 shows a new power consumption schedule Sc1 determined in step S17 of the energy management method according to the first embodiment, and a proposed change Sc3 to the new power consumption schedule when the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 is changed relative to the new power consumption schedule Sc1. Instead of the proposed change Sc2 to the new power consumption schedule shown in FIG. 13, the schedule creation unit 42 according to this embodiment may create a proposed change Sc3 that does not include the amount of power consumption D2 required for the air conditioning equipment 32 to operate between time t0 and time t1. A user of the energy management system according to the second embodiment can create a power consumption schedule that is suited to each individual user by modifying the power consumption schedule according to the proposed change Sc3 that does not include the amount of power consumption D2 required for the air conditioning equipment 32 to operate between time t0 and time t1. As a result, for example, if there is no power consumption D2 required for the air conditioning equipment 32 to operate between time t0 and time t1, the storage battery 11 can be charged sufficiently and hot water can be generated by the heat pump water heater 31, or the planned amount of electricity can be charged and hot water can be generated at an earlier time.

[0079] 13 and 14, in the proposed changes Sc2 and Sc3 to the new power consumption schedule, the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 is advanced by one hour, resulting in the electric vehicle 10 being connected to the power distribution line PLs when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 20 is relatively large. As a result, in the residence H1, the time during which the solar power generation device 20 is generating power and the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs is longer than in the case of the new power consumption schedule Sc1, and more of the power generated by the solar power generation device 20 can be consumed by devices connected to the power distribution line PLs, thereby reducing the amount of power purchased.

[0080] In the energy management method of the second embodiment, after proceeding to step S17 of determining a new power consumption schedule in the energy management method of the first embodiment, the information acquisition unit 41 acquires information indicating that the time during which the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the power distribution line PLs can be changed (changeable information). When the information acquisition unit 41 acquires the changeable information, the schedule creation unit 42 creates a power consumption schedule in which, for example, the home time of the electric vehicle 10 is moved up by one hour, based on the new power consumption schedule determined in step S17, in a manner similar to step S17 of the first embodiment, and creates a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule. The proposed change to the new power consumption schedule created by the schedule creation unit 42 is transmitted to the communication terminal 50 by the transceiver unit 43. The communication terminal 50 displays the received proposed change to the new power consumption schedule on its display and asks the user to confirm whether or not it is possible to move up the home time of the electric vehicle 10 by one hour.

[0081] The communication terminal 50 transmits a signal regarding the user's confirmation result of the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 to the HEMS controller 40. The HEMS controller 40 uses the user's confirmation result transmitted from the communication terminal 50 to determine whether or not to use the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule. Specifically, when the HEMS controller 40 receives a signal of information (approval information) indicating that the user has confirmed that the return home time of the electric vehicle 10 can be advanced by one hour, the HEMS controller 40 replaces the currently set new power consumption schedule with the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule. The HEMS controller 40 transmits the replaced power consumption schedule (the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule) to the communication terminal 50 and notifies the user that the power consumption schedule has been changed to the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule.

[0082] In addition, in another energy management method of the second embodiment, a power consumption schedule (a tentative power consumption schedule) is created for when the home time of the electric vehicle 10 is brought forward by one hour, based on the power consumption schedule obtained in step S14 of the energy management method of the first embodiment and the electric vehicle use schedule obtained in step S15. In the other energy management method of the second embodiment, a power consumption schedule is created using the tentative power consumption schedule in a manner similar to step S17 of the energy management method of the first embodiment, and this is used as a proposed change to the power consumption schedule.

[0083] In the energy management system of the second embodiment, if the user's approval is obtained, power consumption in the home H1 is executed based on the new proposed change to the power consumption schedule. In this way, the HEMS controller 40 of the present embodiment creates new proposed changes to the power consumption schedule, thereby broadening the scope of proposals and expanding the scope of use of the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device 20 while suppressing voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm and PLs.

[0084] According to the energy management system of the present embodiment described above, if the time during which the power adjustment function of the charger 12 included in the electric vehicle 10 is enabled can be changed, the HEMS controller 40 creates a new proposed change to the power consumption schedule. This makes it possible to create a new proposed change to the power consumption schedule so that the time during which power is supplied to the power consuming device 30 is also included in the time during which the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled. This makes it possible to further suppress voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm, PLs.

[0085] Furthermore, according to the energy management system of this embodiment, if the time when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled is changeable, the new proposed change to the power consumption schedule created by the HEMS controller 40 is proposed to the user of the energy management system using the communication terminal 50. If the user determines in the communication terminal 50 that the time when the power adjustment function of the charger 12 is enabled is changeable, approval information is transmitted, and the HEMS controller 40 sets the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule. This makes it possible to further suppress voltage fluctuations in the power distribution lines PLm and PLs.

[0086] <Modification of this embodiment> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the following modifications are also possible.

[0087] [Variation 1] In the above-described embodiment, the power consumption schedule is created with the objective of preventing changes in the user's electricity bill under the constraint that the amount of power consumed in the house H1 does not exceed the power generation amount PV20 generated by the photovoltaic power generation device 20. However, the constraints and objectives for creating the power consumption schedule are not limited to this.

[0088] For example, if a user is enrolled in an electricity plan that allows free charging of an electric vehicle during a specific time, there is no cost for purchasing electricity to charge the electric vehicle during the specific time, so it is possible to broaden the scope of changes to the electricity consumption schedule. In such a case, the electricity consumption schedule may be changed so that the amount of electricity consumed by the house H1 exceeds the amount of electricity generated by the solar power generation device 20. Specifically, in the energy management method of the first embodiment, the total amount of active power before the change shown in formula (2) and the active power P PV Absolute value of |P PV In comparison with the magnitude of |, the effective power P BEV_変更前 is the effective power PBEV_候補1 This can be achieved by calculating the active power P of the photovoltaic power generation device 20 from the total active power before the change shown in equation (2). PV Absolute value of |P PV If the excess amount after subtracting | exceeds the upper limit of the contracted power of the house H1, an upper limit constraint can be set for the excess amount.

[0089] [Variation 2] In the above-described embodiment, the reactive power output by the electric vehicle 10 is calculated using equation (1). However, the value of the reactive power output by the electric vehicle 10 is not limited to this. It may be calculated using a method other than equation (1). For example, the power factor at the power receiving point PP1 may be controlled to satisfy equation (15) shown below, or the power factor pf at the power receiving point may be controlled to -0.95, which is a standard power factor in solar power generation devices for low-voltage consumers.

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[0090] [Variation 3] In the above embodiment, the appliance whose usage time can be changed is the heat pump water heater 31, which is an appliance that must operate at rated output. However, the appliance whose usage time can be changed is not limited to this. For example, it may be a stationary storage battery. If the appliance whose usage time can be changed does not must operate at rated output, the power consumption schedule may be changed while also varying the power consumption amount of the appliance whose usage time can be changed in considering the change of the power consumption schedule in step S17.

[0091] [Variation 4] In the above embodiment, as shown in the device list in Fig. 3, the power consuming device 30 whose usage time can be changed is the heat pump water heater 31, and therefore the usage time of the heat pump water heater 31 is changed when changing the power consumption schedule. However, if multiple power consuming devices can be selected when selecting a power consuming device whose usage time can be changed, an item indicating the usage priority may be added to the device list in Fig. 3, and the power consumption schedule may be changed so that the higher the priority of the power consuming device, the earlier it is used. The usage priority may be registered by the user, or may be registered by inferring it from past changes and the user's approval history for the changes.

[0092] This aspect has been described above based on embodiments and modifications. However, the above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of this aspect and are not intended to limit this aspect. This aspect may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and equivalents thereof are included in this aspect. Furthermore, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it may be deleted as appropriate.

[0093] <Application example 1> An energy management system, The power distribution system is connected to the electric vehicle and to a power consumption device that consumes power via a power distribution line, the electric vehicle includes a power regulator having a function of adjusting reactive power in the distribution line and a storage battery connected to the distribution line via the power regulator, and is switchable between a state where it is connected to the distribution line and a state where it is not connected to the distribution line; The management system is a control unit that controls power supply to the power consuming devices and creates a power consumption schedule for the power consuming devices; an output unit that outputs the power consumption schedule created by the control unit, The control unit an acquisition unit that acquires adjustment information related to a time during which the power regulator functions when the electric vehicle is connected to the power distribution line, and device information related to power consumption of the power consumption device; a creating unit that uses the adjustment information and the device information acquired by the acquiring unit to create a new power consumption schedule in which a time during which power is supplied to the power consuming device is included in a time during which the power regulator functions, the output unit outputs the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit. Energy management system. <Application example 2> The energy management system according to Application Example 1, connected via the power distribution line to a solar power generation device that generates electricity by receiving sunlight, the acquisition unit acquires power generation amount information relating to a predicted value of the power generation amount of the solar power generation device, the creation unit creates the new power consumption schedule using the power generation amount information so that, among the time periods during which power is supplied to the power consumption devices, the time periods during which the power regulator is not functioning are times during which the power regulator is functioning and are also times during which the solar power generation device is generating power. Energy management system. <Application example 3> The energy management system according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2, the acquisition unit acquires change information regarding whether a time during which the power regulator functions can be changed; the creation unit uses the change information to create a change proposal for the new power consumption schedule in the case where a time during which the power regulator functions is changed; and the output unit outputs a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit. Energy management system. <Application Example 4> The energy management system according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 3, the output unit is a communication terminal held by a user of the energy management system, The energy management system further comprises: a transmitter that transmits information about the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule to the communication terminal; a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted by the communication terminal; The communication terminal If the transmission unit transmits the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule, the transmission unit notifies the user to confirm whether or not the time during which the power regulator functions can be changed; When receiving approval information indicating that the time during which the power regulator functions is changeable, transmitting the approval information as the signal; When the receiving unit receives the approval information, the creating unit sets the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule; the communication terminal outputs the new power consumption schedule. Energy management system. <Application example 5> The energy management system according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 4 further comprises: a storage unit that stores the impedance of the power distribution line; The generating unit uses the impedance stored in the storage unit to generate a reactive power Q that satisfies Equation (1). BEV Calculate The electric vehicle uses the reactive power Q calculated by the creation unit. BEV Outputs Energy management system.

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[0094] 1...Energy management system PLm,PLs…Distribution line 10. Electric vehicles 11...Storage battery 12…Charger 20...Solar power generation equipment 40...HEMS controller 41…Information acquisition department 42...Schedule Creation Department 43...Transmitter / receiver 44...Storage section 50...Communication terminal

Claims

1. An energy management system, The power distribution system is connected to the electric vehicle and to a power consumption device that consumes power via a power distribution line, the electric vehicle includes a power regulator having a function of adjusting reactive power in the distribution line and a storage battery connected to the distribution line via the power regulator, and is switchable between a state where it is connected to the distribution line and a state where it is not connected to the distribution line; The management system is a control unit that controls power supply to the power consuming devices and creates a power consumption schedule for the power consuming devices; an output unit that outputs the power consumption schedule created by the control unit, The control unit an acquisition unit that acquires adjustment information related to a time during which the power regulator functions when the electric vehicle is connected to the power distribution line, and device information related to power consumption of the power consumption device; a creating unit that uses the adjustment information and the device information acquired by the acquiring unit to create a new power consumption schedule in which a time during which power is supplied to the power consuming device is included in a time during which the power regulator functions, the output unit outputs the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit. Energy management system.

2. 2. The energy management system of claim 1, connected via the power distribution line to a solar power generation device that generates electricity by receiving sunlight, the acquisition unit acquires power generation amount information relating to a predicted value of the power generation amount of the solar power generation device, the creation unit creates the new power consumption schedule using the power generation amount information so that, among the time periods during which power is supplied to the power consumption devices, the time periods during which the power regulator is not functioning are times during which the power regulator is functioning and are also times during which the solar power generation device is generating power. Energy management system.

3. 3. The energy management system according to claim 1 or 2, the acquisition unit acquires change information regarding whether a time during which the power regulator functions can be changed; the creation unit uses the change information to create a change proposal for the new power consumption schedule in the case where a time during which the power regulator functions is changed; and the output unit outputs a proposed change to the new power consumption schedule created by the creation unit. Energy management system.

4. 4. The energy management system according to claim 3, the output unit is a communication terminal held by a user of the energy management system, The energy management system further comprises: a transmitter that transmits information about the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule to the communication terminal; a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted by the communication terminal; The communication terminal If the transmission unit transmits the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule, the transmission unit notifies the user to confirm whether or not the time during which the power regulator functions can be changed; When receiving approval information indicating that the time during which the power regulator functions is changeable, transmitting the approval information as the signal; When the receiving unit receives the approval information, the creating unit sets the proposed change to the new power consumption schedule as the new power consumption schedule; the communication terminal outputs the new power consumption schedule. Energy management system.

5. The energy management system according to claim 1 or claim 2 further comprises: a storage unit that stores the impedance of the power distribution line; The creation unit uses the impedance stored in the storage unit to calculate reactive power Q that satisfies equation (1). BEV Calculate The electric vehicle is configured to generate the reactive power Q BEV Outputs Energy management system. [Equation 1] however, P BEV is the active power consumed by charging the electric vehicle, P not-BEV is the active power consumed by the power consuming device, Q not-BEV is the reactive power consumed by the power consuming device, R is the resistance of the distribution line, X is the reactance of the distribution line.

6. An energy management method for controlling power supply to an electric vehicle and a power consumption device that consumes power, using an energy management system connected to the electric vehicle and the power consumption device via a power distribution line, comprising: the electric vehicle includes a power regulator having a function of adjusting reactive power in the distribution line and a storage battery connected to the distribution line via the power regulator, and is switchable between a state where it is connected to the distribution line and a state where it is not connected to the distribution line; The energy management method includes: an acquisition step of acquiring adjustment information relating to a time during which the power regulator functions as a result of the electric vehicle being connected to the distribution line, and device information relating to power consumption of the power consumption device; a creating step of creating a new power consumption schedule using the adjustment information and the device information acquired in the acquiring step, in which a time when power is supplied to the power consuming device is included in a time when the power regulator functions; an output step of outputting the new power consumption schedule created in the creation step. Energy management methods.

7. A computer program for causing a computer to execute control of power supply to a power consumption device in an energy management system connected to an electric vehicle and a power consumption device that consumes power via a power distribution line, the computer program comprising: the electric vehicle includes a power regulator having a function of adjusting reactive power in the distribution line and a storage battery connected to the distribution line via the power regulator, and is switchable between a state where it is connected to the distribution line and a state where it is not connected to the distribution line; The computer program comprises: an acquisition function that acquires adjustment information regarding a time when the power regulator functions by connecting the electric vehicle to the distribution line and device information regarding power consumption of the power consumption device; a generating function that generates a new power consumption schedule using the adjustment information and the device information acquired by the acquiring function, the new power consumption schedule including a time when power is supplied to the power consuming device within a time when the power regulator is functioning; an output function for outputting the new power consumption schedule created by the creation function; Computer program.

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