Compensation calculation system, compensation calculation method, and program

Abstract

To provide a pricing system, pricing method, and program that can facilitate the introduction of EMS (Essential Manufacturing Services). [Solution] The system includes an EMS cost calculation means that calculates the cost of introducing an EMS to a facility including a storage battery and power generation equipment. The EMS outputs information on buying and selling electricity, and the EMS cost calculation means uses a portion of the profits obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility as the cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , , , , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a consideration calculation system, a consideration calculation method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, calculations have been made for the fees when energy-saving equipment / services are introduced for facilities with a predetermined energy-saving investment cost. Patent Document 1 discloses that an energy service provider bears the cost to implement energy-saving measures for a target facility, measures the energy consumption after the energy-saving measures, compares the measured value with the energy consumption before the energy-saving measures stored in a database in advance, calculates the reduction amount of the energy cost, and at least a part of the reduction amount is received by the energy service provider. Further, Patent Document 1 discloses that the energy-saving measures include, for example, a method of storing energy of night-time electricity in an electric power storage device or the like and releasing them during the day to equalize the day-night electric power and reduce the electric power cost. Patent Document 2 discloses providing a lease system in which a battery is installed in a user's house by the initial investment of a leasing company, and the user pays a predetermined fee to the leasing company. Further, Patent Document 2 discloses that the amount of the predetermined fee collected from the user is set to be a part of the energy-saving cost obtained by using the battery.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not envision the buying and selling of electricity.

[0005] Therefore, this disclosure aims to provide a price calculation system, price calculation method, and program that can promote the introduction of EMS. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A consideration calculation system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an EMS consideration calculation means for calculating the consideration for introducing an EMS to a facility including a storage battery and power generation equipment, wherein the EMS outputs power buying and selling instruction information, and the EMS consideration calculation means uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility as the consideration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This disclosure can facilitate the introduction of EMS. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating the relationship between EMS provider 1 and customer 2, assuming the introduction of power management system 100. [Figure 2] A schematic block diagram showing the system configuration of the power management system 100 in this disclosure. [Figure 3] A schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of the control device 10. [Figure 4] This figure shows a specific example of a function information table stored by the function information storage unit 141. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of a user interface presented by the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of a user interface presented by the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154. [Figure 7] A flowchart showing an example of a method for calculating consideration using the management device 10. [Figure 8]A diagram illustrating a schematic example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 90 applied to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes a power management system 100, a cost calculation method, and a program according to one embodiment of this disclosure, with reference to the drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 shows the relationship between EMS provider 1 and customer 2, assuming the introduction of the power management system 100. EMS provider 1 provides EMS functions to customer 2. Customer 2, for example, owns or manages a facility. The facility includes storage batteries and power generation equipment. There are no particular restrictions on the type of facility, and examples include logistics warehouses, plants, buildings, and residences. Examples of power generation equipment include fossil fuel power generation equipment and renewable energy power generation equipment. The facility may further include power consumption equipment. Examples of power consumption equipment include lighting equipment, air conditioning equipment, and general machinery. If storage batteries and power generation equipment consume electricity, these storage batteries and power generation equipment can also be considered power consumption equipment.

[0011] An Energy Management System (EMS) is a system for managing the demand and supply of electricity at a specific facility. By introducing an EMS, for example, the demand and supply of electricity can be optimized (optimization of electricity supply and demand planning). Demand includes, for example, the amount of charge in a storage battery and the amount of electricity consumed by power-consuming equipment. Supply includes, for example, the amount of discharge in a storage battery and the amount of electricity generated by power-generating equipment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the EMS also includes the buying and selling of electricity in the market for both demand and supply. Demand includes, for example, the amount of electricity sold in addition to the aforementioned charge and consumption amounts. Supply includes, for example, the amount of electricity purchased in addition to the aforementioned discharge and supply amounts. Optimization of supply and demand planning by an EMS includes not only the optimization of supply and demand planning limited to the target facility, but also the optimization of supply and demand planning including markets outside the target facility (e.g., the electricity market). As a result, compared to not introducing an EMS, it may be possible to optimize the target variable, such as reducing costs. EMS (Energy Management System) anticipates various revenue opportunities (for example, profits from buying and selling in the spot market, sales in the environmental value market, FIP profits, profits from the supply and demand adjustment market, profits from buying and selling in the ahead market, and imbalance costs), and plans power generation and storage plans that maximize profits, as well as electricity trading partners (when, in which market, how much to trade, and how to monetize).

[0012] The introduction of an EMS (Electric Power Management System) to a facility may include, for example, the development of a plan for the facility's electricity demand and supply (electricity supply and demand plan) by the EMS. In this embodiment, the electricity supply and demand plan includes the electricity buying and selling plan as described above. The introduction of an EMS (Energy Management System) to a facility may include, for example, the facility being controlled (the facility's power consumption being controlled) based on a power supply and demand plan formulated by the EMS. In this case, the role of the EMS itself may be either (1) or (2) below. For example, (1) the EMS itself may directly control the facility. Furthermore, for example, (2) the EMS itself may only present a power supply and demand plan, and the facility may be controlled by a person (e.g., the facility manager) or other device that receives the presented supply and demand plan. In case (2), the actual control of the facility's power supply and demand may not be carried out by the EMS itself. The introduction of an Energy Management System (EMS) to a facility may include, for example, the fact that the power supply and demand plan formulated by the EMS is modified in response to changes in the environment (prerequisites), and that the facility is controlled based on the modified power supply and demand plan. The detailed functions of EMS will be explained later.

[0013] EMS provider 1 may provide EMS functions to each of multiple customers 2. Customers 2 of the EMS can obtain the benefits described above by introducing the EMS to their facilities. EMS provider 1 receives payment from each customer 2 for providing the EMS functions. In this embodiment, EMS provider 1 receives a portion of the aforementioned benefits as payment from customers 2. The power management system 100 according to this embodiment implements the EMS functions and calculates this payment. Note that in the example shown in Figure 1, for the sake of clarity, the EMS is shown as being included in each customer. However, the EMS may be provided as a cloud service. For example, the EMS may include an EMS cloud and an EMS gateway. In this case, the EMS cloud may create operational plans for power generation equipment, storage batteries, and power trading. Then, in order to control the power generation equipment and storage battery equipment owned by the customers according to the operational plan, the EMS cloud sends instruction signals to the EMS gateways installed at each site. It is permissible to trust this. Furthermore, the EMS gateway may rewrite the settings of the customer's power generation and battery storage equipment. As a result, the control systems of the customer's power generation and battery storage equipment may control the power generation and battery storage equipment.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the system configuration of the power management system 100 of the present disclosure. The power management system 100 includes a management device 10 (consideration calculation device) and a trading device 20. The management device 10 and the trading device 20 are communicably connected via a network 70. The network 70 may be a network using wireless communication or a network using wired communication. The network 70 may be configured using, for example, the Internet, or may be configured using a local area network (LAN). The network 70 may be configured by combining a plurality of networks.

[0015] The power management system 100 is owned or managed by the operator 1 of the EMS. The management device 10 implements the functions of the EMS. The management device 10 calculates the consideration for the operator 1 to provide the functions of the EMS to the customer 2. The trading device 20 is connected to, for example, a power trading market (not shown) and an environmental value trading market (not shown) via the network 70. The trading device 20 conducts trading of electric power and environmental values for each facility. The management device 10 and the trading device 20 may be provided for each facility, or may be provided in common for a plurality of facilities.

[0016] (Management device 10) FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of the management device 10. The management device 10 is configured using an information device (information processing device) such as a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, a dedicated device, or a server device. The management device 10 includes a communication unit 11, an input unit 12, an output unit 13, a storage unit 14, and a control unit 15.

[0017] The communication unit 11 is a communication device. The communication unit 11 may be configured, for example, as a network interface. The communication unit 11 communicates data with other devices via the network in accordance with the control of the control unit 15. The communication unit 11 may be a wireless communication device or a wired communication device.

[0018] The input unit 12 is configured using existing input devices such as a keyboard, pointing device (mouse, tablet, etc.), buttons, or touch panel. The input unit 12 is operated by the user when inputting user instructions to the management device 10. The input unit 12 may also be an interface for connecting the input device to the management device 10. In this case, the input unit 12 inputs the input signal generated in response to the user's input in the input device to the management device 10. The input unit 12 may also be configured using a microphone and a speech recognition device. In this case, the input unit 12 acquires the acoustic signal generated by the user's speech, performs speech recognition on the words spoken by the user, and inputs the recognized string information to the management device 10. The speech recognition processing may be performed by the control unit 15. The input unit 12 may be configured in any way that allows user instructions to be input to the management device 10.

[0019] The output unit 13 outputs information in a format that the user can recognize. The output unit 13 may be an image display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The output unit 13 may also be an interface for connecting the image display device to the management device 10. In this case, the output unit 13 generates a video signal for displaying image data and outputs the video signal to the image display device connected to it. The output unit 13 may also be a device that outputs sound, such as a speaker. The output unit 13 may also be an interface for connecting an audio output device such as a speaker or headphones to the management device 10. In this case, the output unit 13 generates an audio signal for playing audio data and outputs the audio signal to the audio output device connected to it. The output unit 13 may also be a printer, for example. The output unit 13 may also be an interface for connecting a printer to the management device 10. In this case, the output unit 13 generates a print signal for printing print data and outputs the print signal to the printer connected to it. The output unit 13 may also be configured as a touch panel integrated with the input unit 12.

[0020] The storage unit 14 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 14 stores data used by the control unit 15. The storage unit 14 stores data necessary when the control unit 15 performs processing. The storage unit 14 functions, for example, as a functional information storage unit 141.

[0021] The function information storage unit 141 stores function information. Function information is information related to functions. Functions are functions of the EMS. The format of the function information stored by the function information storage unit 141 will be described later.

[0022] The control unit 15 is composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory (main memory). The control unit 15 functions as an EMS implementation means 151, an EMS price calculation means 152, a price presentation means 153, and a percentage presentation means 154 when the processor executes a program. Note that all or part of each function of the control unit 15 may be implemented using hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Computer-readable recording media include, for example, portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and semiconductor memory devices (e.g., SSDs: Solid State Drives), as well as memory devices such as hard disks and semiconductor memory devices built into computer systems. The program may be transmitted via a telecommunications line.

[0023] The control unit 15 may execute an application installed on its own device (management device 10). A specific example of such an application is an application provided to the management device 10 as a dedicated application for the power management system 100. Another specific example of such an application is a web browser application. Such an application may be pre-installed on the management device 10, or it may be downloaded each time a determination process is executed. For example, if it is implemented as a web browser application, the management device 10 may download and execute the application from a device specified by the web server (for example, the web server itself or another server) when the management device 10 connects to a specific web server. The control unit 15 operates according to the program of the application being executed.

[0024] The EMS implementation means 151 performs processing related to the EMS. Processing related to the EMS may include, for example, (A) formulating power supply and demand plans for each facility, (B) implementing the formulated power supply and demand plans, and (C) controlling the facilities based on the modified power supply and demand plans while modifying the power supply and demand plans formulated by the EMS in accordance with changes in the environment (prerequisites). Processing related to the EMS (function of the EMS) may be the formulation of power supply and demand plans. The formulation of power supply and demand plans may include the formulation of power generation and storage plans and the formulation of market trading plans.

[0025] The EMS implementation means 151 (A) formulates a power supply and demand plan for each facility. The EMS implementation means 151 formulates a plan such that a predetermined objective variable is optimized at each facility. The objective variable may be, for example, monetary profit (cost) or environmental burden (e.g., CO2 emissions). In this embodiment, the objective variable is profit. The EMS implementation means 151 may have, for example, machine learning-trained artificial intelligence implemented, and this artificial intelligence may formulate the plan. The EMS implementation means 151 may have, for example, a known algorithm implemented, and this algorithm may formulate the plan.

[0026] When formulating a supply and demand plan, necessary information such as the amount of electricity generated and demanded at the facility, and the market price of electricity (selling price, buying price) may be predicted by the EMS implementation means 151 (for example, artificial intelligence), or it may be provided in advance. Based on the above-mentioned information, the EMS implementation means 151 formulates an electricity plan that optimizes the objective variable. For example, if the objective variable is cost, the EMS implementation means 151 formulates a plan for the amount of electricity to supply (generate), demand, sell, and buy that meets electricity demand while optimizing costs. The EMS implementation means 151 may also formulate, for example, a power generation plan by power generation equipment, an operation plan for rechargeable batteries (charge and discharge plan), a surplus electricity sales plan, and a purchase plan for insufficient electricity.

[0027] The EMS implementation means 151 (B) implements the formulated power supply and demand plan. The implementation of the power supply and demand plan by the EMS implementation means 151 may include, for example, the EMS implementation means 151 controlling each facility based on the formulated supply and demand plan, presenting the formulated supply and demand plan to people and other devices related to each facility, and carrying out processing for the buying and selling of power related to each facility based on the formulated supply and demand plan. The carrying out processing for the buying and selling of power related to each facility based on the formulated supply and demand plan may include, for example, outputting power buying and selling instruction information (e.g., power supply and demand plan information, operation plan information) to the buying and selling device 20. Power buying and selling instruction information is information used for buying and selling power. For example, power buying and selling instruction information may be data stored in association with a time period and the amount of electricity to be sold or bought during that time period. Power buying and selling instruction information may include not only information related to the buying and selling of electricity itself, but also information related to the buying and selling of environmental value based on renewable energy generation.

[0028] The EMS implementation means 151 controls the facilities based on the modified power supply and demand plan, while modifying the power supply and demand plan formulated by the EMS in accordance with changes in the environment (prerequisites). This function related to (C) is highly variable depending on the environment, is more complex than the functions related to (A) and (B), and can be said to be a difficult function to implement. While the functions related to (A) and (B) are the basic functions of the EMS, the function related to (C) can be said to be an extended function of the EMS.

[0029] The EMS implemented by such an EMS implementation means 151 includes a first function and a second function that is different from the first function. Examples of the first function include (1) a function to buy and sell electricity in the supply and demand adjustment market, (3) a function to buy and sell electricity in the advance market, (4) a function to buy and sell electricity in multiple markets, and (5) an imbalance avoidance function. Examples of the second function include (5) a function to buy and sell electricity in the spot market, (6) a function to generate revenue through FIP, (7) a function to generate revenue through environmental value, and (8) a peak shift function. Furthermore, each of these functions may include formulating power generation and storage plans or market trading plans (formulating power supply and demand plans) while taking each function into consideration. For example, (1) the function of buying and selling electricity in the supply and demand adjustment market may include the EMS formulating electricity supply and demand plans while taking into account the buying and selling of electricity in the supply and demand adjustment market. For example, (2) the function of buying and selling electricity in the advance market may include the EMS formulating electricity supply and demand plans while taking into account that electricity will be bought and sold in the advance market. For example, (3) the function of buying and selling electricity in multiple markets may include the EMS formulating a supply and demand plan for electricity while taking into account that electricity will be bought and sold in multiple markets. For example, (4) the imbalance avoidance function may include the EMS formulating a power supply and demand plan while taking into consideration the avoidance of imbalances. For example, (5) the function of buying and selling electricity on the spot market may include the EMS formulating electricity supply and demand plans while taking into account that electricity will be bought and sold on the spot market. For example, (6) the function of generating revenue through FIP may include the EMS formulating a power supply and demand plan while taking into account the generation of revenue through FIP. For example, (7) the function of generating revenue from environmental value may include the EMS formulating a power supply and demand plan while taking into consideration the generation of revenue from environmental value. For example, (8) the peak shift function may include the EMS formulating a power supply and demand plan that takes peak shifts into consideration. The benefits of implementing an EMS in a facility are obtained by implementing the first and second functions. These first and second functions are described below.

[0030] First, I will explain items (5) to (7) above, which relate to the second function. Items (5) to (7) above, which relate to the second function, are functions related to the general buying and selling of electricity as described in (A) and (B) above.

[0031] Regarding the buying and selling of electricity, the EMS (Electricity Management System) formulates, for example, the next day's buying and selling plan by 12:00 the previous day and sends it to the Organization for Cross-regional Coordination of Transmission Operators (hereinafter also referred to as "OCCTO"). The OCCTO is an organization that aggregates plans from each electricity company. When electricity is bought and sold in accordance with this plan, it will be traded on the spot market as described in (5) above. When electricity is sold on the market, if it is generated from renewable energy, the Feed-In Premium (FIP) described in (6) above will be added to the normal electricity price. The FIP is the value added to electricity generated from renewable energy. This added value may be, for example, a subsidy from a public institution such as the national or local government. Incidentally, if the electricity is from renewable energy sources, the generated electricity will have environmental value as described in (7) above. This environmental value can be bought and sold, for example, in an environmental value trading market different from the electricity market (for example, a non-fossil fuel value trading market). As a basic function of EMS, it aims to maximize profits obtained from buying and selling in the spot market related to (5) and (6) and FIP associated with such buying and selling, and from buying and selling environmental value related to (7).

[0032] The peak shift function described in (8) above is a function related to the formulation of a plan. The peak shift function is a function that equalizes the supply and demand of electricity. When the peak shift function equalizes the demand for electricity, for example, electricity demand during peak demand hours (e.g., daytime electricity consumption) is reallocated to electricity demand during off-peak hours (e.g., nighttime electricity consumption). This reallocation of electricity demand is achieved, for example, by changing the time of day when rechargeable batteries are charged. When the peak shift function equalizes the supply for electricity, for example, electricity supply during peak supply hours is reallocated to electricity supply during off-peak hours. This reallocation of electricity supply is achieved, for example, by changing the time of day when power generation facilities generate electricity. The EMS, through the peak-shifting function described in (8), can, for example, reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the spot market described in (5), thereby further increasing the profits obtained from the functions described in (5) to (7). This peak-shifting function described in (8) may also function as part of other functions, such as the function of buying and selling electricity described in (5) and (6) on the spot market, or the function of generating revenue through FIP. In other words, a plan formulated by considering the buying and selling of electricity on the spot market may, as a result, be a peak-shifted plan.

[0033] Next, the above (1) to (4) relating to the first function will be explained. The above (1) to (4) relating to the first function are mainly extended functions related to the buying and selling of electricity as described in (C).

[0034] The supply and demand adjustment market described in (1) above is a market for adjustment capacity. The supply and demand adjustment market is a market for procuring the adjustment capacity necessary to adjust the balance of electricity supply and demand. The supply and demand adjustment market publicly offers for adjustment capacity. Owners of power sources (for example, storage batteries or power generation equipment) have the right to supply electricity as adjustment capacity if they win the public offering in the supply and demand adjustment market. Owners of power sources will supply electricity as adjustment capacity when they have won the bid for adjustment capacity and the adjustment capacity is activated. Even if an owner of a power source has won the bid for adjustment capacity, they will not supply electricity as adjustment capacity if the adjustment capacity is not activated. When an owner of a power source wins the bid for adjustment capacity, they receive income in proportion to the amount of electricity supplied for the adjustment capacity they won. Furthermore, when an adjustment capacity is activated and electricity is supplied for adjustment capacity, the owner of a power source can earn profits from selling electricity to the adjustment capacity market (income in proportion to the amount of electricity supplied).

[0035] In the electricity sales in the demand adjustment market described in (1), for example, an operational plan must be formulated depending on whether or not the adjustment is activated, and an extended function of the EMS described in (C) above is required. For example, if a plan is formulated on the premise that the adjustment capacity will be activated, the plan will need to be changed if the adjustment capacity is not activated.

[0036] Examples of adjustment capabilities include primary adjustment capabilities, secondary adjustment capabilities (secondary adjustment capabilities (1), secondary adjustment capabilities (2)), and tertiary adjustment capabilities (tertiary adjustment capabilities (1), tertiary adjustment capabilities (2)). These adjustment capabilities differ, for example, in response time and duration. Response time is the upper limit of the interval from the time the regulating power is activated until the time when power can begin to be supplied, for example, when the regulating power is activated. For example, the response time for the primary regulating power is within 10 seconds, the response time for the secondary regulating powers (1) and (2) is within 5 minutes, the response time for the tertiary regulating power (1) is within 15 minutes, and the response time for the tertiary regulating power (2) is within 45 minutes. The duration is, for example, the minimum time during which power can continue to be supplied from the moment the adjustment power is activated. The duration of primary adjustment power is, for example, 5 minutes or more, the duration of secondary adjustment power (1) and (2) is, for example, 30 minutes or more, and the duration of tertiary adjustment power (1) and (2) is, for example, 3 hours. When the response time is short, short-term electricity sales are required, so discharge from a storage battery is preferable. When the duration is long, long-term electricity sales are required, so power generation by a power generation facility is preferable.

[0037] The pre-hours market mentioned in (2) above is, for example, a market where trading is possible up to one hour before actual supply and demand. As mentioned above, the OCCTO receives the sales plan, and submits the power generation plan and corresponding sales plan, as well as the demand plan and corresponding procurement plan. However, at the actual supply and demand level, discrepancies may occur between the sales plan sent to the OCCTO and the actual power generation and demand levels, resulting in differences between the actual sales volume and procurement and the sales and procurement plans. Such discrepancies (imbalances) can occur, for example, due to power generation equipment failures. Specifically, at the actual supply and demand level, the following types of imbalances (deficits and surpluses) may occur. • When power generation decreases, actual sales decrease. The difference between the actual decrease in sales and the sales plan becomes an imbalance. • When power generation increases, actual sales increase. The difference between the actual increase in sales and the sales plan becomes a surplus imbalance. When demand increases, the actual amount procured increases. The difference between the increased actual amount procured and the procurement plan becomes a shortage or imbalance. When demand decreases, the actual amount procured decreases. The difference between the actual amount procured and the procurement plan becomes an imbalance. In the event of any surplus or deficit imbalance as described above, the final adjustment will be made by Customer 2 (the electric utility), who will bear the cost of the imbalance unit price and imbalance expense, for example, the marginal cost incurred by the former general electric utility. The deficit imbalance charge and surplus imbalance charge can be calculated, for example, as follows. Imbalance charges (costs incurred by general transmission and distribution companies to compensate for the shortfall between planned and actual figures) = (weighted average of spot market and ahead market) × α + β + K Surplus imbalance charges (costs incurred by general transmission and distribution companies for purchasing the surplus of actual power compared to the plan) = Weighted average of spot market and ahead market × α + β - L α: Adjustment item based on the overall supply and demand situation of the system. β: Adjustment term that reflects regional differences in market prices. K, L: Incentive constants Customer 2 (electricity provider) needs to strive to minimize such imbalances. Therefore, if an imbalance is anticipated and trading is possible in the advance market, it will attempt to resolve the imbalance by, for example, trading in the advance market. Such a function as (2) buying and selling electricity in the advance market is an extended function of the EMS related to (C) above.

[0038] The function of buying and selling electricity in multiple markets (3) above is naturally more complex than buying and selling in a single market because it requires consideration of multiple factors. Buying and selling electricity in multiple markets may include, for example, buying and selling electricity in different markets such as the spot market and the supply and demand adjustment market. Buying and selling electricity in multiple markets may also include, for example, buying and selling electricity as primary and secondary adjustment power (1) in the supply and demand adjustment market (buying and selling as different commodities in the same market).

[0039] The imbalance avoidance described in (4) above is implemented, for example, when there is a discrepancy between the actual amount of power generated and the amount of demanded and the buy / sell plan sent to OCCTO, resulting in a difference between the actual amount of sales and procurement and the sales and procurement plan, and when the imbalance cannot be resolved even through pre-sale transactions as described above. For example, in the case of solar power generation, the amount of power generated may vary depending on the weather on any given day, potentially resulting in an imbalance. In such cases, if the imbalance cannot be resolved even with advance trading, a deficit imbalance may be avoided by, for example, discharging from rechargeable batteries or having other power generation equipment generate power. Furthermore, in such cases, an excess imbalance may be avoided by, for example, charging rechargeable batteries or stopping power generation from other power generation equipment. (2) Avoiding imbalances is an extended function of the EMS related to (C) above.

[0040] As described above, the EMS implementation means 151 performs processing (information processing) related to the first function and the second function, respectively. The EMS implementation means 151 realizes the first and second functions using artificial intelligence and algorithms as described above. The information processing used to predict profits from introducing the first function to the facility is more complex than the information processing used to predict profits from introducing the second function to the facility. For example, in order to profit from the first function, it is necessary to consider transactions in various markets, and because it is complex, it is more difficult to predict accurately than when profits are obtained through the second function. Thus, the predictability of profits from introducing the first function to the facility is lower than the predictability of profits from introducing the second function to the facility. The profits obtained from introducing the first function to the facility are more volatile (fluctuation) than the profits obtained from introducing the second function to the facility. Furthermore, the EMS implemented by the EMS implementation means 151 is based on the premise of buying and selling electricity. This EMS implements the basic function of formulating electricity supply and demand plans, but it can also be said to output electricity buying and selling instruction information. For example, the EMS outputs electricity buying and selling instruction information to the buying and selling device 20.

[0041] The EMS cost calculation means 152 calculates the cost of introducing an EMS to a facility. The EMS cost calculation means 152 uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility as the cost. The cost includes a first cost and a second cost. The EMS cost calculation means 152 uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility as the first cost, and a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility as the second cost. The EMS cost calculation means 152 may also calculate the profit for each function of the EMS implementation means 151. The profit for each function of the EMS implementation means 151 may be, for example, the profit obtained when executing the algorithm (program) for implementing the function of the EMS implementation means 151, compared to when the algorithm is not executed. In this case, the EMS cost calculation means 152 may obtain the cost for each function by multiplying the profit calculated for each function by a rate set for each function. The rate is the ratio of the cost received by the business operator 1 to the profit obtained by customer 2 by introducing the EMS.

[0042] To explain the EMS fee calculation means 152, a specific example of the function information stored in the function information storage unit 141 of the storage unit 14 will be described. Figure 4 is a diagram showing a specific example of the function information table stored in the function information storage unit 141. The function information table has multiple function information records. Each function information record has the following values: identification number, function name, function attribute, and rate for each unit period. The identification number is a unique identification number corresponding to each function. The function name is a unique name used for the function corresponding to the identification number. The function attribute is information indicating whether the function corresponding to the identification number belongs to the first function or the second function. The rate for each unit period is the rate set for the function corresponding to the identification number in the corresponding unit period. The unit period may be, for example, a year (e.g., January to December, April to March of the following year, September to August of the following year), a month (e.g., 1st to the end of the month, 16th to the 15th of the following month), or any other period (e.g., half a year).

[0043] The EMS fee calculation means 152 may be capable of calculating profit for each function of the EMS implementation means 151 and for each unit period. For example, the EMS fee calculation means 152 may determine the fee for each function by multiplying the profit calculated for each function of the EMS implementation means 151 and for each unit period by a rate for each function and for each unit period stored in the function information storage unit 141, as shown in Figure 4. However, the rate may be set only for each function and not for each unit period. As mentioned above, the first function requires more advanced processing than the second function. Therefore, in this embodiment, the rates for each function belonging to the first function are higher than the rates for each function belonging to the second function. As a result, the proportion of the first fee to the profit obtained by introducing the first function into the facility is greater than the proportion of the second fee to the profit obtained by introducing the second function into the facility.

[0044] Figure 5 shows an example of a user interface presented by the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the price presentation means 153 presents the user with the first function information and the first price in association, and also presents the user with the second function information and the second price in association. The first function information is information indicating the first function, and the second function information is information indicating the second function. Here, the presentation of various information by the price presentation means 153 may be done by the price presentation means 153 displaying the various information on a display surface such as the screen of an image display device or the paper of a printed document, or by displaying it in an electronic file, or by outputting it as audio. The user may be, for example, a person related to the facility (for example, a facility manager, a facility owner, or a person considering introducing an EMS).

[0046] The ratio presentation means 154 presents the first function information and the first ratio information to the user in association, and also presents the second function information and the second ratio information to the user in association. The first ratio information is information indicating the ratio of the first consideration, and the second ratio information is information indicating the ratio of the second consideration. Here, the ratio presentation means 154 presents the various information by displaying it on a display surface such as the screen of an image display device or the paper of a printed document, or by outputting it as sound.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154 display various information on the display surface 30 as Table 1 T1. Table 1 T1 includes one header row T1a and multiple record rows T1b.

[0048] The header row T1a is the first row in Table 1 T1. The header row T1a represents the content indicated by the information in each cell (information cell T1d) in the record row T1b. In this embodiment, the headings in the header row T1a are, for example, X-year rate, X-year revenue, X-year charge, Y-year rate, Y-year revenue, and Y-year charge. The X-year rate is the X-year rate stored in the function information table. The X-year revenue and X-year charge are the profit and charge for each function calculated by the EMS consideration calculation means 152. The same applies to the Y-year rate, Y-year revenue, and Y-year rate with different unit periods.

[0049] Each record row T1b represents the rate, profit, and consideration for the function corresponding to that record row T1b. Each record row T1b contains a header cell T1c and an information cell T1d. The header cell T1c is the first cell in the record row T1b. The header cell T1c indicates which function the record row T1b represents.

[0050] Furthermore, if Table 1 T1 is displayed on an image display device, for example, the input unit 12 may make Table 1 T1 operable, and the control unit 15 may receive input from the input unit 12 to change the rate. When the control unit 15 receives a change in the rate, it may update the contents of Table 1 T1 and the function information.

[0051] Figure 6 shows an example of a user interface presented by the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154. As shown in Table 1 T1 of the modified example in Figure 6, the price presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154 may be displayed on the display surface 30, grouping multiple functions by attribute (for example, first attribute and second attribute), and then displaying them as Table 1 T1.

[0052] In this embodiment, the EMS fee calculation means 152 calculates profit for each function of the EMS implementation means 151, but it is not necessary to calculate profit for each function. The EMS fee calculation means 152 may calculate the total profit for a specific period and calculate the fee at a uniform rate regardless of the function (for example, a rate between the first rate and the second rate). In this case, the control unit 15 may simply present the fee and the rate to the user. Furthermore, in addition to calculating profit for each function, the EMS fee calculation means 152 may also calculate profit for each piece of equipment in the target facility and set a rate for each piece of equipment.

[0053] (Trading device 20) The trading device 20 is composed of information devices (information processing devices) such as smartphones, tablets, personal computers, dedicated equipment, and server devices. The trading device 20 conducts transactions with the market based on trading instruction information received from the management device 10.

[0054] (Method of calculating consideration) The following describes the method for calculating consideration performed by the management device 10. The method for calculating consideration assumes, for example, that the management device 10 performs operations for a predetermined unit period, and that the management by the management device 10 (processing by the EMS) generates profits for the EMS customer 2.

[0055] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for calculating consideration using the management device 10. The method for calculating the consideration includes the EMS consideration calculation step S101 and the presentation step S102.

[0056] First, the management device 10 performs the EMS cost calculation step S101. In the EMS cost calculation step S101, the EMS cost calculation means 152 calculates the cost of introducing the EMS to the facility. In the EMS cost calculation step S101, the EMS cost calculation means 152 uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility as the cost. For example, the EMS cost calculation means 152 calculates the cost by multiplying the profit amount for each function obtained by the EMS implementation means 151 by the rate stored in the function information storage unit 141.

[0057] Next, the management device 10 performs the presentation step S102. In the presentation step S102, the consideration presentation means 153 presents the consideration as shown in Figure 5. At this time, in this embodiment, the consideration presentation means 153 presents the first function information and the first consideration to the user in association, and also presents the second function information and the second consideration to the user in association (consideration presentation step). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the percentage presentation means 154 presents the first function information and the first percentage information to the user in association, and also presents the second function information and the second percentage information to the user in association (percentage presentation step). At this time, the consideration presentation means 153 and the percentage presentation means 154 present to the user, for example, the consideration calculated by the EMS consideration calculation means 152 and the stored information stored in the function information storage unit 141 in association.

[0058] This concludes the method for calculating the consideration. Note that the presentation step S102 is optional.

[0059] As explained above, according to the power management system 100 of this embodiment, the EMS price calculation means 152 uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing an EMS that outputs power buying and selling instruction information to the facility as price. Therefore, the EMS provider 1 can proactively propose to customer 2, who is considering introducing an EMS, an EMS that generates high profits, partly due to the output of power buying and selling instruction information. Furthermore, customer 2, who is considering introducing an EMS, can enjoy a portion of these high profits (the remainder after deducting the price from the profits), and since the price can be covered by a portion of these profits, it becomes possible for them to proactively introduce an EMS.

[0060] The EMS fee calculation means 152 determines that a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is the first consideration, and a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility is the second consideration. Therefore, the EMS operator 1 can obtain the function provided by the first function as the first consideration, and the function provided by the second function as the second consideration.

[0061] The compensation presentation means 153 presents the first function information and the first compensation to the user in association, and also presents the second function information and the second compensation to the user in association. Therefore, for example, customer 2 considering the introduction of EMS can understand the first compensation and the first function, which is the function used to obtain the first compensation, in association, and can also understand the second compensation and the second function, which is the function used to obtain the second compensation, in association. As a result, customer 2 considering the introduction of EMS can, for example, increase their satisfaction with the compensation for each function from which they can obtain benefits.

[0062] The ratio presentation means 154 presents the first function information and the first ratio information to the user in association, and also presents the second function information and the second ratio information to the user in association. Therefore, for example, customer 2 considering the introduction of EMS can understand the first ratio, which shows the proportion of the first consideration to the profit, in association with the first function, which is the function used to obtain the first consideration, and can also understand the second ratio, which shows the proportion of the second consideration to the profit, in association with the second function, which is the function used to obtain the second consideration. As a result, customer 2 considering the introduction of EMS can, for example, increase their sense of satisfaction with the consideration for each function that generates profit.

[0063] The proportion of the first consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the second consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility. Therefore, EMS provider 1 can, for example, receive different proportions of consideration for each function that generates revenue. Customer 2, who is considering introducing EMS, can, for example, increase their satisfaction with the consideration for each function that generates revenue.

[0064] The predictability of the benefits gained from introducing the first function to the facility is lower than the predictability of the benefits gained from introducing the second function. Therefore, compensation is set for each function with different levels of predictability of profit. For example, if the proportion of the compensation for the first function to the benefits gained from introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the compensation for the second function to the benefits gained from introducing the second function to the facility, then the proportion of compensation for the first function, which has a lower predictability of profit, will be lower than the proportion of compensation for the second function, which has a higher predictability of profit. In this case, customer 2, who is considering introducing an EMS, can, for example, increase their satisfaction with the compensation for each function that can generate profit.

[0065] (Hardware configuration of each device) Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of an example hardware configuration of an information processing device 90 applied to this embodiment. The information processing device 90 comprises a processor 91, main memory 92, communication interface 93, auxiliary storage device 94, input / output interface 95, and internal bus 96. The processor 91, main memory 92, communication interface 93, auxiliary storage device 94, and input / output interface 95 are connected to each other via the internal bus 96 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The information processing device 90 may be applied to, for example, a management device 10 and a trading device 20. In this case, for example, the communication unit 11 may be configured using the communication interface 93. For example, the storage unit 14 may be configured using the auxiliary storage device 94. Also, the control unit 15 may be configured using the processor 91 and the main memory 92.

[0066] The operation of the control unit described above is stored in auxiliary storage device 94 (storage) in the form of a program. The processor 91 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 94, loads it into the main memory device 92, and executes the above processing according to the program. The processor 91 also allocates memory areas in the main memory device 92 corresponding to each of the above-mentioned storage units according to the program. Examples of the processor 91 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a microprocessor.

[0067] The program may be for implementing a part of the functions to be performed by the information processing device 90. For example, the program may perform functions in combination with other programs already stored in the auxiliary storage device 94, or in combination with other programs implemented in other devices. In other examples of the embodiment, the information processing device 90 may include a custom LSI (Large Scale Integrated Circuit) such as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) in addition to or instead of the above configuration. Examples of PLDs include PAL (Programmable Array Logic), GAL (Generic Array Logic), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In this case, some or all of the functions implemented by the processor 91 may be implemented by the integrated circuit. Such an integrated circuit is also included as an example of a processor.

[0068] Examples of auxiliary storage devices 94 include magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, optical disks, semiconductor memory, etc. The auxiliary storage device 94 may be an internal medium directly connected to the bus of the information processing device 90, or it may be an external medium connected to the information processing device 90 via an input / output interface 95 or a communication line. Furthermore, if this program is delivered to the information processing device 90 via a communication line, the information processing device 90 that receives the delivery may load the program into the main memory 92 and execute the above processing. In at least one embodiment, the auxiliary storage device 94 is a tangible storage medium that is not temporary.

[0069] Furthermore, the program may be intended to implement some of the functions described above. Furthermore, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that implements the aforementioned functions in combination with other programs already stored in the auxiliary storage device 94.

[0070] For example, the program may be a program that causes a computer (information processing device) to function as a management device 10.

[0071] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and may include designs and other elements that do not depart from the gist of this disclosure.

[0072] For example, the ratio presentation means 154 may be omitted. For example, the price presentation means 153 may not be necessary. The price presentation means 153 does not need to present a correspondence between the function and the price; the price presentation means 153 may simply present the price. For example, the EMS implementation means 151 may not be necessary. The management device 10 may not implement the EMS and instead function as a payment calculation system whose primary function is to calculate the payment.

[0073] (Note) The above embodiment can be understood, for example, as follows:

[0074] <1> A consideration calculation system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an EMS consideration calculation means for calculating the consideration for introducing an EMS to a facility including a storage battery and power generation equipment, wherein the EMS outputs power buying and selling instruction information, and the EMS consideration calculation means uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility as the consideration.

[0075] The EMS fee calculation method uses a portion of the profits obtained by introducing an EMS that outputs electricity buying and selling instruction information to a facility as the fee. Therefore, EMS providers can proactively propose to customers considering introducing an EMS that generates high profits, partly due to the output of electricity buying and selling instruction information. Furthermore, customers considering introducing an EMS can enjoy a portion of these high profits (the remainder after deducting the fee from the profits), and since the fee can be covered by a portion of these profits, they can proactively introduce an EMS.

[0076] <2> the above <1> In the compensation calculation system relating to the above, the EMS may be configured such that it includes a first function, and the profit is obtained by introducing the first function to the facility.

[0077] Profits are generated by introducing the first function into the facility. Therefore, EMS providers can more reliably obtain compensation for the first function.

[0078] <3> the above <2> In the compensation calculation system relating to the above, the EMS may be configured such that it includes a second function different from the first function, and the profit is obtained by introducing the first and second functions to the facility.

[0079] Profits are generated by implementing both the first and second functions in the facility. Therefore, EMS providers can more reliably obtain compensation from both the first and second functions.

[0080] <4> the above <3> In the consideration calculation system relating to the above, the consideration may include a first consideration and a second consideration, and the EMS consideration calculation means may adopt a configuration in which a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is used as the first consideration, and a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility is used as the second consideration.

[0081] The EMS fee calculation method uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the first function into the facility as the first consideration, and a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the second function into the facility as the second consideration. Therefore, the EMS provider can obtain the functions provided by the first function as the first consideration, and the functions provided by the second function as the second consideration.

[0082] <5> the above <4> The compensation calculation system may further include a compensation presentation means that presents to the user a first function information indicating the first function and the first compensation in association, and also presents to the user a second function information indicating the second function and the second compensation in association.

[0083] The compensation presentation method presents the user with a correspondence between the first function information and the first compensation, and also presents the user with a correspondence between the second function information and the second compensation. Therefore, for example, a customer considering the introduction of EMS can understand the correspondence between the first compensation and the first function used to obtain the first compensation, and also understand the correspondence between the second compensation and the second function used to obtain the second compensation. As a result, customers considering the introduction of EMS can, for example, increase their sense of satisfaction with the compensation for each function that provides a benefit.

[0084] <6> the above <4> or <5> The compensation calculation system may employ a configuration characterized in that the proportion of the first compensation to the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the second compensation to the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility.

[0085] The proportion of the first consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the second consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility. Therefore, an EMS provider can, for example, receive different proportions of consideration for each function that generates revenue. Customers considering introducing an EMS can, for example, increase their satisfaction with the consideration for each function that generates revenue.

[0086] <7> the above <4> ~ <6> A compensation calculation system according to any one of the embodiments may further include a ratio presentation means that presents to the user, in association with first function information indicating the first function and first ratio information indicating the ratio of the first compensation, and presents to the user, in association with second function information indicating the second function and second ratio information indicating the ratio of the second compensation.

[0087] The ratio presentation means presents the user with the first function information and the first ratio information in association, and also presents the user with the second function information and the second ratio information in association. Therefore, for example, a customer considering introducing EMS can understand the first ratio, which shows the proportion of the first consideration to the profit, in association with the first function, which is the function used to obtain the first consideration, and the second ratio, which shows the proportion of the second consideration to the profit, in association with the second function, which is the function used to obtain the second consideration. As a result, customers considering introducing EMS can, for example, increase their sense of satisfaction with the consideration for each function that generates profit.

[0088] <8> the above <3> ~ <7> In a consideration calculation system relating to any one of the above embodiments, a configuration may be adopted in which the foreseeability of obtaining a profit by introducing the first function to the facility is lower than the foreseeability of obtaining a profit by introducing the second function to the facility.

[0089] The predictability of the benefits gained from introducing the first function to the facility is lower than the predictability of the benefits gained from introducing the second function. Therefore, compensation is set for each function with different levels of predictability of profit. For example, if the proportion of the compensation for the first function to the benefits gained from introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the compensation for the second function to the benefits gained from introducing the second function to the facility, then the proportion of compensation for the first function, which has a lower predictability of profit, will be lower than the proportion of compensation for the second function, which has a higher predictability of profit. In this case, customers considering introducing an EMS can, for example, increase their satisfaction with the compensation for each function that can generate benefits.

[0090] <9> the above <2> ~ <7> In a consideration calculation system relating to any one of the above embodiments, the first function may be one of the following: a function to buy and sell electricity in a supply and demand adjustment market, a function to buy and sell electricity in an advance market, a function to buy and sell electricity in multiple markets, and an imbalance avoidance function.

[0091] <10> the above <3> ~ <7> In a consideration calculation system relating to any one of the above embodiments, the second function may be one of the following: a function for buying and selling electricity in the spot market, a function for obtaining revenue through FIP, and a function for obtaining revenue through environmental value.

[0092] <11> A method for calculating consideration according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an EMS consideration calculation step for calculating the consideration for introducing an EMS to a facility including a storage battery and power generation equipment, wherein the EMS outputs power buying and selling instruction information, and the EMS consideration calculation step is characterized in that a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS to the facility is used as the consideration.

[0093] <12> A program according to one aspect of the present invention enables a computer to use the above-mentioned <1> ~ <10> This program is designed to function as a price calculation system relating to one of the following aspects. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 152 EMS Price Calculation Method 153 Means of offering compensation 154 Proportion Presentation Methods S101 EMS Price Calculation Step

Claims

1. A means for calculating the cost of introducing an EMS to a facility including storage batteries and power generation equipment. Equipped with, The EMS outputs information regarding the buying and selling of electricity, The EMS cost calculation means uses a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the EMS into the facility as the cost. A compensation calculation system characterized by the following features.

2. The aforementioned EMS includes a first function, The aforementioned benefit is obtained by introducing the first function into the facility. The consideration calculation system according to feature 1.

3. The EMS includes a second function that is different from the first function, The aforementioned benefits are obtained by introducing the first function and the second function into the facility. The consideration calculation system according to feature 2.

4. The aforementioned consideration includes the first consideration and the second consideration, The EMS cost calculation means determines that a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is the first cost, and a portion of the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility is the second cost. The consideration calculation system according to feature 3.

5. A means for presenting to the user a first function information indicating the first function and the first consideration in association, and a means for presenting to the user a second function information indicating the second function and the second consideration in association, The consideration calculation system according to claim 4, further comprising the above.

6. The proportion of the first consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the first function to the facility is greater than the proportion of the second consideration to the profit obtained by introducing the second function to the facility. The consideration calculation system according to feature 5.

7. A ratio presentation means that presents to the user, in association with first function information indicating the first function and first ratio information indicating the ratio of the first consideration, and also presents to the user, in association with second function information indicating the second function and second ratio information indicating the ratio of the second consideration. The consideration calculation system according to claim 6, further comprising the following:

8. The predictability of gaining benefits by introducing the first function to the facility is lower than the predictability of gaining benefits by introducing the second function to the facility. The consideration calculation system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by the above.

9. The first function is one of the following: a function to buy and sell the electricity in the supply and demand adjustment market, a function to buy and sell the electricity in the advance market, a function to buy and sell the electricity in multiple markets, and an imbalance avoidance function. The consideration calculation system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized by the above.

10. The second function is one of the following: a function to buy and sell the electricity on the spot market, a function to generate revenue through FIP, and a function to generate revenue through environmental value. The consideration calculation system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by the above.

11. An EMS cost calculation step for calculating the cost of introducing EMS to a facility including storage batteries and power generation equipment. Equipped with, The EMS outputs information regarding the buying and selling of electricity, The EMS cost calculation step involves using a portion of the profits obtained by introducing the EMS into the facility as the cost. A method for calculating consideration characterized by the following features.

12. A program for causing a computer to function as a consideration calculation system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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