Power regulation system

Abstract

The present invention provides a power adjustment system that can prevent situations where demands from power suppliers cannot be met. [Solution] In this power adjustment system 100, the store management unit 3 is configured to set a target adjustment value for power consumption for each of the multiple stores individually, based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to the multiple stores obtained from the power supply source 30 and the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, and to transmit the target adjustment value to the multiple in-store control units to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units 2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a power regulation system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a power regulation system has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a power regulation system including a host controller, an intermediate device, and a subordinate controller. In Patent Document 1, the subordinate controller manages the amount of energy consumed by one or more equipment installed in a building. Further, the intermediate device receives a notification of an individual adjustable amount, which is an amount of energy consumption adjustable for each predetermined period, from the subordinate controller, and receives a demand adjustment request for requesting adjustment of the amount of energy consumption during an adjustment request period from the host controller. Furthermore, the intermediate device assigns a demand adjustment amount to one or more subordinate controllers in a predetermined order based on management information according to the demand adjustment request.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Although not disclosed in Patent Document 1 mentioned above, the amount of energy consumed (power consumption) by equipment (in-store equipment) installed in a building (store) varies depending on the size of the store and is also affected by external environmental factors including weather and temperature. Therefore, if the demand adjustment request transmitted from the intermediate device to the lower-level controller (in-store control unit) is constant, some stores among multiple stores may not be able to achieve the adjustment amount (target adjustment value), which may result in the inability to fulfill the request from the higher-level controller (power supplier). For this reason, there is a need for a power adjustment system that can suppress the inability to fulfill the request from the power supplier.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one of its objectives is to provide a power adjustment system that can prevent the inability to meet the demands of the power supplier. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, a power adjustment system according to one aspect of this invention comprises: a plurality of in-store devices each located in a plurality of stores; a plurality of in-store control units each located in a plurality of stores that control the plurality of in-store devices; and a store management unit that transmits and receives information to and from a power supply source and the plurality of in-store control units, and manages the plurality of in-store control units. The store management unit is configured to set a target adjustment value for power consumption for each of the plurality of stores individually based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to the plurality of stores obtained from the power supply source and an adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the plurality of in-store control units, and to transmit the target adjustment value to the plurality of in-store control units to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the plurality of in-store control units. The plurality of in-store control units are configured to adjust the power consumption of the plurality of in-store devices based on the target adjustment value received from the store management unit.

[0008] In one aspect of this invention, the power adjustment system is configured such that, as described above, the store management unit sets individual target adjustment values ​​for power consumption for each of the multiple stores based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to multiple stores obtained from the power supplier and the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units, and transmits the target adjustment values ​​to the multiple in-store control units to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units. As a result, since individual target adjustment values ​​for power consumption can be set for each of the multiple stores based on the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units, a larger target setting can be set for stores with relatively large adjustable power consumption, and a smaller target setting can be set for stores with relatively small adjustable power consumption. As a result, an appropriate target adjustment value can be set for each of the multiple stores, thereby preventing situations where requests from the power supplier cannot be met. Here, the power supplier includes a power plant that generates electricity and a specific wholesale supplier (aggregator) that adjusts power between the power plant and each store.

[0009] In the power adjustment system according to the first aspect described above, preferably, multiple in-store control units are configured to transmit adjustable power consumption amounts obtained based on predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices to the store management unit. With this configuration, multiple in-store control units can transmit power consumption amounts for time periods when total power consumption is expected to be high to the store management unit as adjustable power consumption amounts, making it easy to adjust power consumption in response to adjustment requests from the power supplier. As a result, it is possible to further suppress situations where requests from the power supplier cannot be fulfilled.

[0010] In this case, preferably, the multiple in-store control units are configured to transmit an adjustable power consumption amount to the store management unit, which is obtained based on a preset upper limit for power consumption and a prediction of the change in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices over a specific period. With this configuration, the maximum value of the total power consumption can be reduced by making the amount of power consumption that exceeds the preset upper limit for target total power consumption among the prediction of the change in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices over a day an adjustable total power consumption amount, thereby reducing the load on the in-store devices.

[0011] In the power adjustment system of the first aspect described above, preferably, the store management unit is configured to set target adjustment values ​​for each of the multiple stores included in one of the multiple groups into which the stores are divided. With this configuration, the store management unit can adjust the target adjustment values ​​among multiple stores by adjusting the power consumption on a group basis, unlike when adjusting the power consumption of a single store, and can therefore respond flexibly to requests for power consumption adjustment.

[0012] In this case, preferably, the multiple groups include a first group which includes multiple stores within a predetermined range, grouped according to their location, and a second group which includes the first group but covers a wider area. The store management unit is configured to determine whether it can respond to requests for energy consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the second group if it cannot respond to requests for energy consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the first group. With this configuration, the store management unit can determine whether it can respond to requests for energy consumption adjustments in the second group, which has a larger number of stores, when it cannot respond to requests for energy consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the first group. As a result, it is possible to respond to requests for energy consumption adjustments from power suppliers more flexibly.

[0013] In the configuration in which the above-mentioned in-store control unit acquires predictions of changes in total power consumption, it is preferable that the in-store control unit acquires corrected predicted power consumption values ​​based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store devices sequentially between acquiring a prediction of changes in total power consumption for a specific period and acquiring a prediction of changes in total power consumption for the specific period of the next day, and transmits the corrected predicted values ​​as adjustable power consumption to the store management unit. With this configuration, the in-store control unit can reduce the difference between the actual power consumption and the predicted power consumption by sequentially acquiring corrected predicted power consumption values ​​based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store devices. As a result, the store management unit can set target adjustment values ​​based on the corrected predicted values, so that more appropriate target adjustment values ​​can be set for each of the multiple stores.

[0014] In this case, preferably, the store management unit is configured to change the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store equipment in other stores based on the corrected predicted values ​​obtained from the in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores. With this configuration, the store management unit can determine whether the target adjustment value can be achieved in one store based on the corrected predicted values ​​obtained from the in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores, and if it determines that it cannot be achieved, it can adjust the target adjustment values ​​of the other stores. As a result, it is possible to respond more flexibly to requests from the power supplier.

[0015] In the above-mentioned in-store control unit, which transmits the corrected predicted value as an adjustable power consumption amount to the store management unit, preferably the store management unit is configured to increase the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices in other stores when the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores falls below the target adjustment value. With this configuration, the target adjustment value in one store can be decreased by increasing the target adjustment values ​​in other stores, so that the power consumption can be adjusted without excess or deficiency in relation to the power consumption amount requested by the power supplier. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, as described above, it is possible to provide a power adjustment system capable of suppressing the inability to achieve a request from a power supply source.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of a power adjustment system. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of grouping a plurality of stores. [Figure 3] It is a diagram schematically showing the setting of a target adjustment value in a store management unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart of the processing of the in-store control unit when adjusting the power consumption. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart of the processing of the store management unit when adjusting the power consumption in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the store management unit when adjusting the target adjustment value between stores. [Figure 7] It is a diagram schematically showing the setting of a target adjustment value in a store management unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart of the processing of the store management unit when adjusting the power consumption in the second embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments embodying the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0019] [First Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the configuration of the power adjustment system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0020] As shown in Figure 1, the power adjustment system 100 comprises multiple in-store equipment units 1, multiple in-store control units 2, and a store management unit 3. The power adjustment system 100 is configured to adjust the power consumption of multiple stores. Multiple stores include, for example, convenience stores, supermarkets, and drugstores. The power adjustment system 100 is used, for example, to centrally manage the power consumption of a chain of convenience stores.

[0021] Multiple store equipment units 1 are installed in each of the multiple stores. Multiple store equipment units 1 are devices that are powered by electricity supplied from a power source. Multiple store equipment units 1 include a showcase 1a, an air conditioner 1b, an electric heating device 1c, and lighting 1d. Note that the types and number of multiple store equipment units 1 installed differ from store to store.

[0022] Showcase 1a includes a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion chamber, and an evaporator. The power consumption of the refrigeration cycle increases with increasing compressor rotation speed.

[0023] The compressor is configured to compress the refrigerant and change it to a high pressure. The condenser is configured to cool and liquefy the refrigerant compressed in the compressor. The expansion unit expands the refrigerant supplied from the condenser, changing it into a low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant. The evaporator is configured to cool the inside of the display case. The evaporator also performs heat exchange between the refrigerant supplied from the expansion unit and the object to be cooled, and cools the object to be cooled through the air cooled by the evaporation of the refrigerant. The object to be cooled is, for example, articles arranged inside the display case, and the object to be cooled is cooled through the air cooled by the evaporator.

[0024] The air conditioner 1b, like the showcase 1a, includes a refrigeration cycle. The configuration of the refrigeration cycle is the same as that of the showcase 1a, so a description is omitted. The air conditioner 1b has multiple operating modes, including cooling and heating. In cooling mode, the air in the store is cooled by heat exchange (heat is transferred to the refrigerant) in the evaporator. In heating mode, the air in the store is heated by heat exchange (heat is received from the refrigerant) in the condenser.

[0025] The electric heating device 1c includes a heated display case (warmer) and a fryer. The heated display case is configured to heat and keep warm items. The heated display case includes, for example, a heater. The fryer is used for deep-frying. The fryer includes a heater.

[0026] Lighting fixture 1d is placed multiple times within the store. Lighting fixture 1d may be placed on the ceiling or on the walls of the store.

[0027] The multiple in-store control units 2 are edge computers located in each store. Each of the multiple in-store control units 2 includes a processing unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit. The processing unit has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and is configured to perform control processing. The storage unit includes ROM and RAM, and stores past power consumption data. The communication unit is configured to connect to the store management unit 3 via the internet. The store management unit 3 is operated by equipment with server (cloud) functionality. The multiple in-store control units 2 have a cloud, and the control performed by the multiple in-store control units 2 is carried out either by the processing unit or the cloud.

[0028] Multiple store control units 2 are provided, one for each of the multiple stores. Each of the multiple store control units 2 is configured to control multiple store equipment 1. Multiple store control units 2 are configured to control the rotation speed of the compressor to cool the items in the showcase 1a to a set temperature and maintain the cooled state. Multiple store control units 2 are configured to control the rotation speed of the compressor to cool or heat the inside of the store to a set temperature and maintain the set temperature. Multiple store control units 2 are configured to control the amount of power supplied to the heater in order to heat the electric heating device 1c to a set temperature. Multiple store control units 2 are configured to control the on state and the off state of the lighting 1d.

[0029] Multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to acquire measured values ​​of the total power consumption per unit time of multiple in-store equipment 1 and to perform control to acquire measured values ​​of the change in the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 over a day. The unit time is, for example, 30 minutes. In addition, the in-store control units 2 are configured to perform control to acquire a prediction of the daily power consumption from past measured values ​​of the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1. Past total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 may be, for example, the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 over the past week, or the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 over the same month of the previous year.

[0030] Multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to transmit adjustable power consumption amounts obtained based on predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 to the store management unit 3. Specifically, multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to transmit adjustable power consumption amounts obtained based on a preset upper limit of power consumption and predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 over a specific period to the store management unit 3. The specific period is, for example, one day. The preset upper limit of power consumption is the upper limit of the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 per unit time. The in-store control units 2 are configured to control multiple in-store equipment 1 so as not to exceed the upper limit during time periods when the predicted value of the total power consumption is expected to exceed the upper limit based on predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 over a specific period. The specific period is, for example, one day. The in-store control unit 2 is configured to transmit to the store management unit 3 the value obtained by subtracting the upper limit from the total power consumption that exceeds the upper limit (the excess amount) as an adjustable power consumption, along with the time period during which the total power consumption is expected to exceed the preset upper limit (the time period during which power consumption can be adjusted).

[0031] If the specified period is, for example, one day, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to sequentially acquire corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 between acquiring a prediction of the change in the total power consumption for one day and acquiring a prediction of the change in the total power consumption for the next day. In this case, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to acquire corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption every three hours, for example, and may be configured to perform control to predict the power consumption for the next three hours and acquire corrected predicted values ​​at 3:00 AM, based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 from 12:00 AM to 2:59 AM. This makes it possible to acquire predicted values ​​that are closer to the measured values, taking into account the influence of external environmental factors such as weather. The in-store control unit 2 is configured to sequentially transmit corrected predicted values ​​to the store management unit 3 each time it acquires them as adjustable power consumption.

[0032] Multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to adjust the power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 based on target adjustment values ​​received from the store management unit 3. Specifically, they are configured to reduce the total power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1 by the target adjustment value. In order to adjust the power consumption of multiple in-store equipment 1, they are configured to perform control to adjust the power consumption of one or more of the multiple in-store equipment 1. For example, multiple in-store control units 2 may be configured to adjust power consumption by changing the set temperature of the showcase 1a to reduce the rotation speed of the compressor in the refrigeration cycle. Alternatively, multiple in-store control units 2 may be configured to adjust power consumption by adjusting the time period during which defrosting is performed on the evaporator of the refrigeration cycle of the showcase 1a, thereby shifting the time of rapid cooling (cold-in) after defrosting, when the compressor rotation speed is high. Furthermore, multiple in-store control units 2 may adjust power consumption by changing the set temperature of the air conditioner 1b to reduce the rotation speed of the compressor in the refrigeration cycle. Furthermore, multiple in-store control units 2 may be configured to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater of the electric heating device 1c and adjust the amount of power consumed. Alternatively, multiple in-store control units 2 may be configured to adjust the amount of power consumed by turning off the lights 1d.

[0033] If the time period during which the power consumption of multiple in-store control units 2 can be adjusted overlaps with the time period during which the power supply source 30 requests an adjustment of power consumption, the multiple in-store control units 2 will adjust the power consumption using standard operation that was previously planned for the in-store control units 2, as they are scheduled to perform power consumption adjustment control during the time period during which the adjustment is requested. On the other hand, if the time period during which power consumption can be adjusted differs from the time period during which the power supply source 30 requests an adjustment of power consumption, the in-store control units 2 will adjust the power consumption using non-standard operation that was not previously planned for the in-store control units 2, as they were not scheduled to perform power consumption adjustment control during the time period during which the adjustment is requested. For example, if a battery is provided, the multiple in-store control units 2 can adjust the power consumption by storing power in the battery before the time period during which the adjustment is requested, and then using the battery power to drive multiple in-store equipment 1 during the time period during which the adjustment is requested. In this case, the multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to transmit a message to the store management unit 3 indicating that they are available. Furthermore, by setting the time period for storing power in the battery to a time period when power consumption can be adjusted, excess power resulting from the adjustment of power consumption can be stored, thereby achieving energy savings. However, if there is no battery and adjusting the power consumption of multiple in-store devices 1 would affect the comfort of the store, the multiple in-store control units 2 cannot perform non-standard operation. In this case, the multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to send a message to the store management unit 3 indicating that they cannot respond to requests for power consumption adjustment.

[0034] The store management unit 3 is configured to send and receive information to and from the power supply source 30 and multiple in-store control units 2. The store management unit 3 is configured to manage multiple in-store control units 2. The power supply source 30 includes a power plant that generates electricity and supplies it to multiple stores, and a specific wholesale power supplier (resource aggregator) that adjusts the electricity between the power plant and each store. In the first embodiment, the store management unit 3 is a so-called store resource aggregator that adjusts the amount of electricity consumed by the in-store control units 2 based on an adjustment request for the amount of electricity consumed from the power supply source 30, thereby maintaining a balance between electricity supply and electricity demand. The store management unit 3 is configured to acquire (receive) requests from the power supply source 30 regarding the adjustment of the amount of electricity supplied to multiple stores. The store management unit 3 is also configured to acquire (receive) the amount of electricity that can be adjusted and the time period during which it can be adjusted from multiple in-store control units 2.

[0035] The store management unit 3 is configured to set individual target power consumption adjustment values ​​for each of the multiple stores based on a request for adjustment of the amount of electricity supplied to multiple stores obtained from the power supply source 30 and the adjustable power consumption amount obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, and to transmit the target adjustment values ​​to the multiple in-store control units 2 to distribute the amount of electricity to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units 2. In this case, the store management unit 3 may transmit to the multiple in-store control units 2 the same amount of power consumption as the adjustable power consumption amount as the target adjustment value, or it may transmit a power consumption amount smaller than the adjustable power consumption amount as the target adjustment value. The store management unit 3 is configured to create a power consumption adjustment plan in response to a request for power consumption adjustment from the power supply source 30 and transmit it to the power supply source 30. The store management unit 3 is configured to create the power consumption adjustment plan at a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, midnight.

[0036] In the first embodiment, if it is not possible to adjust the amount of power consumption within a group, the store management unit 3 is configured to send a message to the power supplier 30 indicating that adjustment is not possible. Specifically, if the total amount of power consumption that can be adjusted in multiple stores included in a group is less than the amount of power consumption that the power supplier 30 has requested to be adjusted, the store management unit 3 is configured to send a message to the power supplier 30 indicating that adjustment is not possible.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the store management unit 3 is configured to set target adjustment values ​​for each of the multiple stores included in one of the multiple groups into which multiple stores are grouped. The multiple groups include a first group which includes multiple stores within a predetermined range, grouped according to location, and a second group which includes the first group but covers a wider area. In the example in Figure 2, stores No. 1 to 3 located in the 23 wards of Tokyo are grouped together as the first group, and stores No. 1 to 6 located in Tokyo (the 23 wards of Tokyo and other municipalities) are grouped as the second group. In the example in Figure 2, stores No. 1 to 9 located in the Kanto region, including Tokyo, are grouped as the third group.

[0038] The store management unit 3 is configured to change the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store equipment 1 in other stores based on the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in one of the multiple stores. Specifically, the store management unit 3 is configured to increase the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store equipment 1 in other stores if the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in one of the multiple stores falls below the target adjustment value. The store management unit 3 may add the amount of power consumption that one store cannot consume to the target adjustment value of one of the other multiple stores, or it may add it to the target adjustment values ​​of multiple stores. In this case, the store management unit 3 is configured to select a store that has sufficient margin for adjusting power consumption.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the store management unit 3 receives a request from the power supplier 30 to adjust the amount of electricity supplied to multiple stores. In Figure 3, the store management unit 3 receives a request from the power supplier 30 to reduce electricity consumption by 15 kWh. It also obtains the amount of adjustable electricity consumption from the in-store control unit 2. In Figure 3, it is assumed that store No. 1 can reduce electricity consumption by 7 kWh, store No. 2 by 5 kWh, and store No. 3 by 6 kWh. In this case, as shown in Figure 3(a), the store management unit 3 adjusts by 15 kWh by setting the target adjustment value for store No. 1 to -5 kWh, store No. 2 to -5 kWh, and store No. 3 to -5 kWh. Note that Figure 3(a) shows an example where the target adjustment value is the same for all stores, but the target adjustment value may be different for all stores, or it may be different for some stores.

[0040] Figure 3(b) shows the case where the corrected predicted value is sent from store No. 2 after adjustment according to Figure 3(a). In the case of Figure 3(b), store No. 2 corrects the adjustable power consumption from 5kWh to 3kWh. In this case, the target setting value set in Figure 3(a) cannot be achieved (NG), so the store management unit 3 readjusts the target setting value. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3(c), the target setting value for store No. 2 is set to the adjustable 3kWh, and the target setting value for store No. 1, which has adjustment margin, is readjusted to 7kWh. This makes it possible to reduce by 15kWh. Note that only store No. 1 is changed, but it is also possible to increase both store No. 1 and store No. 3 by 1kWh each.

[0041] The store management unit 3 is configured to send a message to multiple in-store control units 2 instructing them to adjust the power consumption during the time period requested by the power supply source 30. In this case, if non-standard operation is required, the store management unit 3 is configured to send information to the multiple in-store control units 2 to confirm whether non-standard operation is possible. If the store management unit 3 receives a response from the in-store control units 2 indicating that non-standard operation is possible, the store management unit 2 is configured to send a target adjustment value to the multiple in-store control units 2. On the other hand, if non-standard operation is not possible, after receiving a message from the in-store control units 2 indicating that it is not possible, the store management unit 2 is configured to send a message to the power supply source 30 indicating that power consumption cannot be adjusted. Note that for some stores, the time periods during which power consumption can be adjusted may differ, so some stores may be able to operate under standard operation, while others may be able to operate under non-standard operation. In this case, the store management unit 3 is configured to send information to only one or more stores that require non-standard operation to confirm whether non-standard operation is possible.

[0042] The power source 30 is configured to generate electricity and supply it. The power source 30 includes, for example, a power company or a solar panel power generation company. The power source 30 is also configured to send an adjustment to the amount of electricity consumed to the store management unit 3 when, for example, a shortage of electricity consumption is predicted. In this case, the amount of the adjustment to the amount of electricity consumed is sent to the store management unit 3 to reduce the amount of electricity shortage compared to past supply data.

[0043] (Flowchart for adjusting power consumption of in-store control unit) Based on Figure 4, the processing flow of the in-store control unit 2 when adjusting the power consumption of the in-store control unit 2 will be explained. In step S1, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to obtain a prediction of the change in total power consumption. Specifically, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to obtain a prediction of the change in total power consumption for a day, which is obtained based on the hourly change in total power consumption for a given day in the past.

[0044] In step S2, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to acquire adjustable power consumption. Specifically, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to acquire the time period when the upper limit is expected to be exceeded and the amount of power consumption when the upper limit is expected to be exceeded, based on a preset upper limit of the target total power consumption and a prediction of the change in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices 1 over a day, and to acquire (calculate) the amount of power consumption when the upper limit is expected to be exceeded as adjustable power consumption.

[0045] In step S3, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to transmit the adjustable power consumption amount obtained in step S3 to the store management unit 3.

[0046] In step S4, the steps taken differ depending on whether it is the time when the power consumption adjustment is to begin or not. Specifically, the steps taken differ depending on whether it is the time when it has been determined that the power consumption can be adjusted or not. If it is the time when it has been determined that it can be adjusted (step S4, YES), proceed to step S5; otherwise (step S4, NO), repeat step S4.

[0047] In step S5, the steps taken differ depending on whether or not an instruction to adjust power consumption was received from the store management unit 3. If an instruction to adjust power consumption was received from the store management unit 3 (step S5, YES), the process proceeds to step S6, where control is performed to adjust power consumption; otherwise, the process ends without taking any action.

[0048] (Flowchart for adjusting power consumption in the store management department) Based on Figure 5, the processing flow of the store management unit 3 when adjusting power consumption will be explained. In step S11, the unit is configured to receive a request for power consumption adjustment from the power supply source 30. In step S12, the unit is configured to receive adjustable power consumption from multiple in-store devices 1. Step S12 is the step of receiving the adjustable power consumption transmitted in step S3 of Figure 4.

[0049] In step S13, the next step depends on whether the total of the adjustable power consumption amounts obtained from multiple in-store control units 2 is greater than or equal to the requested power consumption adjustment amount. If it is greater than or equal to the requested power consumption adjustment amount (step S13, YES), proceed to step S14; otherwise (step S13, NO), proceed to step S17. In step S14, the next step depends on whether the power consumption adjustment can be handled by standard operation alone. Specifically, if the time period during which power consumption can be adjusted as received from the in-store control units 2 overlaps with the time period during which power consumption requested by the power supply source 30 is to be adjusted, adjustment is possible with standard operation; otherwise, adjustment is not possible with standard operation. If adjustment is possible with standard operation (step S14, YES), proceed to step S15 and transmit the target adjustment value to the multiple in-store control units 2.

[0050] In step S14, if adjustment is not possible under standard operation (step S14, NO), the process proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the steps to be taken differ depending on whether adjustment is possible under non-standard operation. Specifically, information is sent to the in-store control unit 2 to confirm whether non-standard operation is possible. If it is received that it is possible (step S16, YES), the process proceeds to step S15, where the target adjustment value is sent to the in-store control unit 2. If it is received that it is not possible (step S16, NO), the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, a message is sent to the power supply source 30 indicating that power consumption adjustment is not possible. Steps S11 to S16 are performed for each store. After the target adjustment values ​​for power consumption of all stores have been set, the system stores multiple stores whose power consumption will be adjusted and their target adjustment values, and sends a power consumption adjustment plan, including the target adjustment values ​​for power consumption of all stores, to the power supply source 30.

[0051] (Flow of adjusting target values) Based on Figure 6, the processing flow of the store management unit 3 when adjusting target adjustment values ​​between stores will be explained. First, in step S21, the store management unit 3 transmits the target adjustment values ​​to multiple in-store control units 2. Note that step S21 is the same step as step S15 in Figure 5, and the control in Figure 6 is performed after the control in Figure 5.

[0052] In step S22, the store management unit 3 receives corrected predicted values ​​from multiple in-store control units 2. In step S23, the store management unit 3 proceeds to different steps depending on whether the target adjustment value can be achieved based on the received corrected predicted values. If the target adjustment value can be achieved in all of the multiple stores (step S23, YES), the store management unit 3 does not change the target adjustment value. On the other hand, if even one store cannot achieve the target adjustment value (step S23, NO), the unit proceeds to step S24.

[0053] In step S24, the store management unit 3 proceeds to a different step depending on whether the target adjustment value can be changed at other stores. In other words, the store management unit 3 determines whether there is room to further adjust the power consumption at other stores. If the target adjustment value can be changed at other stores (step S24, YES), the unit proceeds to step S25 and transmits the changed target adjustment value to the in-store control unit 2 located at the relevant store. If the target adjustment value cannot be changed at other stores (step S24, NO), the unit proceeds to step S26 and transmits to the power supply source 30 that the power consumption cannot be adjusted.

[0054] (Effects of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0055] In the first embodiment, as described above, the store management unit 3 is configured to individually set target adjustment values ​​for power consumption for each of the multiple stores based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to the multiple stores obtained from the power supply source 30 and the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, and to transmit the target adjustment values ​​to the multiple in-store control units 2 to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units 2. As a result, since target adjustment values ​​for power consumption can be individually set for each of the multiple stores based on the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, the target setting value can be set higher for stores with relatively large adjustable power consumption and lower for stores with relatively small adjustable power consumption. As a result, an appropriate target adjustment value can be set for each of the multiple stores, thereby preventing situations where the request from the power supply source 30 cannot be met.

[0056] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to transmit adjustable power consumption amounts obtained based on predictions of changes in the total power consumption of the multiple in-store equipment 1 to the store management unit 3. This allows the multiple in-store control units 2 to transmit the power consumption amounts for time periods when the total power consumption is expected to be high as adjustable power consumption amounts to the store management unit 3, making it easier to adjust power consumption in response to adjustment requests from the power supply source 30. As a result, it is possible to further suppress the inability to fulfill requests from the power supply source 30.

[0057] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the multiple in-store control units 2 are configured to transmit an adjustable power consumption amount to the store management unit 3, which is obtained based on a preset upper limit of power consumption and a prediction of the change in the total power consumption of the multiple in-store equipment 1 over a specific period. This makes it possible to reduce the maximum value of the total power consumption by making the power consumption amount that exceeds the preset upper limit of the target total power consumption among the prediction of the change in the total power consumption of the multiple in-store equipment 1 over a specific period an adjustable total power consumption amount, thereby reducing the load on the in-store equipment 1.

[0058] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the store management unit 3 is configured to set target adjustment values ​​for each of the multiple stores included in one of the multiple groups into which the multiple stores are grouped. As a result, the store management unit 3 can adjust the power consumption on a group basis, which differs from adjusting the power consumption of a single store. This allows for flexible adjustment of target adjustment values ​​among multiple stores, thus enabling a flexible response to requests for power consumption adjustments.

[0059] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the in-store control unit 2 is configured to sequentially acquire corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store devices 1 between acquiring a prediction of the change in total power consumption for a specific period and acquiring a prediction of the change in total power consumption for the specific period of the next day, and to transmit the corrected predicted values ​​as adjustable power consumption to the store management unit 3. As a result, the in-store control unit 2 can reduce the difference between the actual power consumption and the predicted power consumption by sequentially acquiring corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on the measured power consumption of multiple in-store devices 1. As a result, the store management unit 3 can set a target adjustment value based on the corrected predicted value, so that a more appropriate target adjustment value can be set for each of the multiple stores.

[0060] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the store management unit 3 is configured to change the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices 1 in other stores based on the corrected predicted values ​​obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in one of the multiple stores. As a result, the store management unit 3 can determine whether or not the target adjustment value can be achieved in one store based on the corrected predicted values ​​obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in one of the multiple stores, and if it determines that it cannot be achieved, it can adjust the target adjustment values ​​of the other stores. This allows for a more flexible response to requests from the power supplier 30.

[0061] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the store management unit 3 is configured to increase the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices 1 in other stores when the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in one of the multiple stores falls below the target adjustment value. As a result, by increasing the target adjustment values ​​in other stores, the target adjustment value in one store can be decreased, thereby enabling the power consumption to be adjusted without excess or deficiency in relation to the power consumption amount requested by the power supply source 30.

[0062] [Second Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the power adjustment system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, 7, and 8. In the second embodiment, the store management unit 3 is configured to broaden the scope of a group if it is unable to respond to a request for power consumption adjustment in one group.

[0063] The store management unit 3 is configured to determine whether it can accommodate requests for energy consumption adjustments at multiple stores in the second group if it cannot accommodate such requests at multiple stores in the first group. For example, if it cannot accommodate the requests at stores in the 23 wards of Tokyo in the first group, the store management unit 3 will expand its scope to include stores in Tokyo in the second group and determine if it can accommodate the requests. If it cannot accommodate these stores, it will expand its scope to include stores in the Kanto region in the third group and determine if it can accommodate the requests.

[0064] In Figure 7, the store management unit 3 receives a request from the power supplier 30 to reduce power consumption by 20 kWh. In the example in Figure 7, the store management unit 3 obtains the adjustable power consumption from the in-store control units 2 located in multiple stores belonging to the smaller-sized Group 1. In Figure 7(a), among the multiple stores belonging to Group 1, Store No. 1 can reduce power consumption by 5 kW, Store No. 2 by 3 kW, and Store No. 3 by 2 kW. Therefore, a total of 10 kWh can be reduced in Group 1. In this case, since the request from the power supplier 30 cannot be met, the store management unit 3 obtains the adjustable power consumption from the in-store control units 2 located in multiple stores belonging to Group 2, which has a wider range than Group 1. In Figure 7(b), among the second group, Stores No. 1 to No. 3 are as described above, Store No. 4 can reduce power consumption by 5 kWh, Store No. 5 by 3 kWh, and Store No. 6 by 3 kWh. Therefore, a total of 21 kWh can be reduced in Group 2. In this case, in order to respond to the request from the power supplier 30, the store management unit 3 sets a target adjustment value for each store included in the second group. For example, as shown in Figure 3(a), the store management unit 3 sets the target adjustment value for store No. 1 to -5kWh, for store No. 2 to -3kWh, for store No. 3 to -2kWh, for store No. 4 to -4kWh, for store No. 5 to -3kWh, and for store No. 6 to -3kWh, thereby performing an adjustment of 20kWh.

[0065] (Flowchart for adjusting power consumption in the store management department) Based on Figure 8, the processing flow of the store management unit 3 when adjusting power consumption will be explained. In step S31, a request for power consumption adjustment is received from the power supply source 30. In step S32, the adjustable power consumption amounts are received from multiple in-store devices 1.

[0066] In step S33, the steps taken differ depending on whether the adjustable power consumption of the first group is greater than or equal to the adjustment amount of the requested power consumption. Specifically, the steps taken differ depending on whether the total adjustable power consumption obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in the stores included in the first group is greater than or equal to the power consumption requested by the power supply source 30. If it is greater than or equal to the adjustment amount (step S33, YES), proceed to step S36; otherwise (step S33, NO), proceed to step S34.

[0067] In step S34, the next step depends on whether there is a larger nth group than the group determined in step S33. The nth group is, for example, the second group. If there is an nth group (step S34, YES), proceed to step S35; if there is no nth group (step S34, NO), proceed to step S37 and send a message to the power supply 30 indicating that the power consumption cannot be adjusted. In step S35, the next step depends on whether the adjustable power consumption of the nth group is greater than or equal to the requested amount. Specifically, the next step depends on whether the total adjustable power consumption obtained from the in-store control unit 2 located in the stores included in the nth group is greater than or equal to the power consumption requested by the power supply 30. If it is greater than or equal to the adjustment amount (step S35, YES), proceed to step S36; otherwise (step S35, NO), proceed to step S34. By repeating steps S34 and S35, the groups grow larger, becoming the nth group, the (n+1)th group, the (n+2)th group, and so on, increasing the number of stores included in each group. This allows the system to handle even large adjustments to power consumption requested by the power supplier 30. If the request cannot be met even when the group is expanded to its maximum size, the answer in step S34 is NO. In step S36, the store management unit 3 sets target adjustment values ​​to multiple in-store control units 2 according to the adjustable power consumption and transmits them.

[0068] The other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0069] (Effects of the second embodiment) In the second embodiment, as described above, the store management unit 3 is configured to individually set target adjustment values ​​for power consumption for each of the multiple stores based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to the multiple stores obtained from the power supply source 30 and the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, and to transmit the target adjustment values ​​to the multiple in-store control units 2 to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units 2. As a result, since target adjustment values ​​for power consumption can be individually set for each of the multiple stores based on the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units 2, the target setting value can be set higher for stores with relatively large adjustable power consumption and lower for stores with relatively small adjustable power consumption. As a result, an appropriate target adjustment value can be set for each of the multiple stores, which can prevent the failure to meet the request from the power supply source 30.

[0070] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the store management unit 3 is configured to set target adjustment values ​​for each of the multiple stores included in one of the multiple groups into which the stores are grouped. As a result, the store management unit 3 can adjust the target adjustment values ​​across multiple stores by adjusting the power consumption on a group basis, unlike when adjusting the power consumption of a single store, and can therefore respond flexibly to requests for power consumption adjustments.

[0071] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the multiple groups include a first group which includes multiple stores within a predetermined range, grouped according to their location, and a second group which includes the first group but covers a wider area than the first group. The store management unit 3 is configured to determine whether it is possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the second group if it is not possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the first group. As a result, the store management unit 3 can determine whether it is possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the second group, which has a larger number of stores, when it is not possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the first group. This allows the store management unit 3 to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments without excessively requesting power consumption adjustments from the first group.

[0072] Furthermore, the other effects of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0073] [Differentiation] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and further includes all modifications (exceptions) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0074] For example, in the first and second embodiments described above, the adjustment of power consumption was shown to be a reduction in power consumption, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the adjustment of power consumption may also be an increase in power consumption. In this case, by using a storage battery, power consumption may be increased, and energy saving may be achieved by discharging the storage battery to drive the equipment in the store.

[0075] Furthermore, while the first and second embodiments described above show examples in which multiple in-store control units acquire adjustable power consumption based on predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, multiple in-store control units may acquire adjustable power consumption based on factors other than predictions of changes in the total power consumption of multiple in-store devices. In this case, for example, settings may be made based on weather and time of day, such as stopping the air conditioner at night when there are few people, or reducing the operation of the air conditioner when the weather is cloudy.

[0076] Furthermore, while the first and second embodiments described above show examples where multiple groups are grouped according to location, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, multiple groups may be grouped based on the size of the store, location conditions, and the customer (recipient of electricity supply). Alternatively, multiple groups may be grouped based on the supply area of ​​the electricity supplier.

[0077] Furthermore, while the first and second embodiments described above show examples in which the in-store control unit obtains corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on measured values ​​of power consumption of multiple in-store devices, the present invention is not limited thereto. The store management unit may also obtain corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on measured values ​​of power consumption of multiple in-store devices.

[0078] Furthermore, while the first and second embodiments described above show an example in which the store management unit is configured to change the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices in other stores based on corrected predicted values ​​obtained from an in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the store management unit may transmit an "unadjustable" message to the power supply source without changing the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices in other stores based on corrected predicted values ​​obtained from an in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores.

[0079] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, the store management unit is configured to increase the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices in other stores when the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores falls below the target adjustment value, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the store management unit may change the target adjustment values ​​of multiple in-store devices in other stores or stop adjusting the power consumption of other stores when the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit located in one of the multiple stores exceeds the target adjustment value.

[0080] Furthermore, although the first and second embodiments described above show an example where the specified period is one day, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the specified period may be half a day, one week, or one month.

[0081] Furthermore, while the first and second embodiments described above show an example where the power source is a resource aggregator, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the power source may be a power plant. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 1. In-store equipment 2. In-store control unit 3. Store Management Department 30 Power supply source 100, 200 Power Regulation System

Claims

1. Multiple in-store devices, each placed in multiple stores, Each of the aforementioned multiple stores is provided with a plurality of in-store control units that control the plurality of in-store devices, The system includes a store management unit that transmits and receives information to the power supply source and the multiple in-store control units, and manages the multiple in-store control units, The store management unit is configured to set a target adjustment value for power consumption for each of the multiple stores individually, based on a request for adjustment of the amount of power supplied to the multiple stores obtained from the power supply source and the adjustable amount of power consumption obtained from the multiple in-store control units, and to transmit the target adjustment value to the multiple in-store control units to distribute the amount of power to be adjusted to the multiple in-store control units. A power adjustment system comprising the plurality of in-store control units configured to adjust the power consumption of the plurality of in-store equipment based on the target adjustment value received from the store management unit.

2. The power adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of in-store control units are configured to transmit an adjustable power consumption amount obtained based on a prediction of the change in the total power consumption of the plurality of in-store equipment to the store management unit.

3. The power adjustment system according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of in-store control units are configured to transmit an adjustable power consumption amount obtained based on a preset upper limit of power consumption and a prediction of the change in the total power consumption of the plurality of in-store equipment over a specific period to the store management unit.

4. The power adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the store management unit is configured to set the target adjustment value for each of the multiple stores that are included in one of the multiple groups into which the multiple stores are grouped.

5. The aforementioned plurality of groups include a first group which includes the plurality of stores located within a predetermined range, and a second group which includes the first group but covers a wider area than the first group. The power adjustment system according to claim 4, wherein the store management unit is configured to determine whether it is possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the second group if it is not possible to respond to requests for power consumption adjustments in the multiple stores included in the first group.

6. The power adjustment system according to claim 2, wherein the in-store control unit is configured to sequentially acquire corrected predicted values ​​of power consumption based on the measured power consumption of the plurality of in-store devices between acquiring a prediction of the change in total power consumption for a specific period and acquiring a prediction of the change in total power consumption for a specific period on the following day, and to transmit the corrected predicted values ​​to the store management unit as adjustable power consumption.

7. The power adjustment system according to claim 6, wherein the store management unit is configured to change the target adjustment values ​​of the multiple in-store equipment in the other stores based on the corrected predicted values ​​obtained from the in-store control unit of one of the multiple stores.

8. The power adjustment system according to claim 7, wherein the store management unit is configured to increase the target adjustment values ​​of the multiple in-store equipment in the other stores when the corrected predicted value obtained from the in-store control unit of one of the multiple stores falls below the target adjustment value.

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