A power trading system that favors charging transactions at different locations

Abstract

To provide a power trading system that enables charging transactions at different locations, allowing power generator owners to fully enjoy the value of the electricity generated by their power generators, even when charging their electric vehicles at a location different from where the power generator is installed. [Solution] A power trading system comprising a power generation device 100, a charging device 150, a server 140, and communication-enabled power meters 1 (110) and 2 (160), wherein the server 140 instructs that the settlement amount at the time of charging when the time of purchase and the time of sale of electricity are in the same time period be calculated by multiplying the settlement amount, which is obtained by subtracting the amount of electricity purchased transmitted from the communication-enabled power meter 1 (110) from the amount of electricity sold transmitted from the communication-enabled power meter 2 (160) during the said time period, by the settlement unit price.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power trading system in which charging transactions at different locations are advantageous.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, against the backdrop of growing environmental awareness and preparations for disasters, the introduction of power generation devices using renewable energy such as solar power generation has been progressing in homes and stores. In addition, the popularity of electric vehicles (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "EVs" (abbreviation for Electric Vehicle)), which do not emit exhaust gas during driving and contribute to the improvement of environmental problems such as global warming, is also increasing. With the increase in electric vehicles, charging devices for charging electric vehicles have been installed everywhere, and the number of homes equipped with charging devices capable of charging electric vehicles has been increasing.

[0003] If a power generation device, an electric vehicle, and a charging device for charging the electric vehicle are provided at home or in a company, it is possible to charge the electric vehicle with the power generated at home or in the company via the charging device at home or in the company. However, although the amount of power generated by renewable energy is large during daytime hours, if you go out for shopping or commuting during that time, you cannot charge at home or in the company, so the power generated at home or in the company during the day is likely to be in a state of excess power and will be sold at a low price. On the other hand, charging an electric vehicle is done outside the home, so it cannot be purchased (charged) at the same low price as the selling price of electricity. Therefore, although there is a power generation device at home or in the company, the power generated cannot be used to charge the electric vehicle that one owns, and the reality is that the benefits of jointly owning the power generation device and the electric vehicle cannot be fully enjoyed.

[0004] Therefore, technologies are being developed with the aim of equalizing the selling price and the buying price of electricity. For example, in a power trading control device for conducting virtual power trading between multiple grids, it is described that a pair of identical-priced power selling and buying orders is established between the first location of the first grid and the second location of the second grid (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, a simultaneous supply and demand matching device, a control method and program for the same, which matches the power demand of one power consumer with the power supply of another power consumer have been developed (see, for example, Patent Document 2). Furthermore, in a consumer having a power load, distributed power sources, and a storage battery, a charge and discharge control device has been developed that controls the charging and discharging of the storage battery in such a way that the consumer's economic benefits are generated (see, for example, Patent Document 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2021 / 240611 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-010489 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2016 / 079863 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 concerns virtual power trading and does not take into account specific power grids or distribution networks, so its feasibility is unclear. Furthermore, the technology described in Patent Document 2 matches the supply and demand (simultaneous and equal amounts) of electricity in a just-in-time manner between consumers who want to sell renewable energy generated electricity and consumers who want to purchase renewable energy electricity, and does not assume the case where the consumer and supplier are the same. In addition, the technology described in Patent Document 3 controls the charging and discharging of batteries according to a pre-planned control plan, so its implementation requires preparation and is limited.

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a power trading system that enables charging transactions at different locations, even when electric vehicles used by owners of renewable energy power generation equipment (power suppliers) are charged at a location different from the power generation equipment installation site, so that the value of the electricity generated by the renewable energy power generation equipment can be fully enjoyed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and embodiments of the present invention may include the following configurations. (1) A power generation device that utilizes renewable energy, A charging device for electric vehicles, A server that stores fluctuating data on the amount of electricity supplied, the amount of electricity demanded, or the purchase price of electricity from owners of renewable energy power generation equipment or the purchase price of electricity sold to users of charging equipment for electric vehicles during a specified time period, and calculates the price of purchased or sold electricity based on this data, A power meter 1 with a communication function transmits to the server at regular time intervals information regarding the amount of electricity purchased and the time of purchase when transmitting electricity generated by the aforementioned renewable energy power generation device to the power grid, A power meter 2 with a communication function transmits to the server at regular intervals power sales information regarding the amount of electricity sold and the time of electricity sold when an electric vehicle used by the owner of the renewable energy power generation device is charged from the power grid using the charging device, In a power trading system equipped with, A power trading system in which, when the time of electricity purchase and the time of electricity sale are in the same time period, the settlement amount for charging is calculated by multiplying the settlement amount, which is obtained by subtracting the amount of electricity purchased transmitted from the communication-enabled electricity meter 1 from the amount of electricity sold transmitted from the communication-enabled electricity meter 2 during the time period, by the settlement unit price. (2) When the value of the settled power consumption is positive, the server Based on formula (1), the settlement amount is calculated using the settlement price as the electricity sales price. When the value of the aforementioned settlement power amount is negative, Based on formula (1), the settlement amount is calculated using the settlement unit price as the electricity purchase unit price. When the value of the aforementioned settlement power amount is zero, The electricity trading system described in (1), in which the operating fee is settled based on formula (1). Settlement amount (yen) = Settlement amount of electricity (kWh) × Settlement unit price (yen / kWh) + Operating fee (yen) ... (1) (3) The electricity trading system described in (2), wherein the operating fee is given by formula (2). Operating fee = Amount of electricity sold (kWh) × Grid usage fee (yen / kWh) + Charging equipment usage fee (yen) ... (2) (4) The power trading system according to (2), wherein the server uses the electricity selling price or electricity buying price used to calculate the settlement amount as the price during the time period for charging the electric vehicle stored in the server. (5) The electricity trading system described in (1), wherein the fixed time interval is 1 to 10 minutes. (6) The power trading system described in (1), wherein when charging the electric vehicle with the charging device, the server obtains information regarding the selection of a charging method entered by the user of the charging device. (7) The power trading system according to (1), wherein the server transmits to a customer terminal owned by the base facility any information entered by the user of the charging device that the user of the charging device has authorized to provide to the base facility where the charging device is installed. (8) The power trading system described in (1), wherein the server calculates the settlement amount based on the information of the power generation equipment owner entered into the authentication terminal. (9) The power trading system as described in (1), in which the server notifies the electric vehicle user of the change in the time of sale of electricity entered by the electric vehicle user when an application is made from a retail electricity provider of the power grid or a base facility where the charging device is installed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, even when an electric vehicle used by an owner of a power generation device using renewable energy is charged at a location different from the power generation device installation location, the value of the generated electric power by the power generation device using renewable energy can be fully enjoyed, and the spread of the power generation device using renewable energy can be promoted.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a power trading system when an electric vehicle 120 used by an owner of a power generation device is charged by a charging device 150 in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Schematic diagram showing the system configuration of the charging device 150 in the commercial facility 200 [Figure 3] An example of data on the electricity purchase unit price and electricity sale unit price stored in the server 140 (referring to the market price of JEPX, A: spot market price, B: forward market price) [Figure 4] Outline of operation fees [Figure 5] Specific example of the settlement amount calculation method [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing the information flow of the power trading system [Figure 7] An example of a charging plan (A: examples of Plan 1 and 2, B: an example of a plan with the charging time shifted)

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail.

[0012] [1] Configuration of the power trading system In this invention, electricity purchase and electricity sale are defined from the perspective of a retail electricity provider. Specifically, electricity purchase refers to the sale of electricity by an owner of a power generation device using renewable energy to a retail electricity provider (i.e., the retail electricity provider buying it). Electricity sale refers to charging an electric vehicle 120 used by the owner of the power generation device (i.e., the retail electricity provider selling electricity).

[0013] The electricity trading system shown in Figure 1 comprises a renewable energy power generation device 100 installed in homes and other locations, an electric vehicle 120, a charging device 150 for charging the electric vehicle, a server 140, and communication-enabled electricity meters 1 (110) and 2 (160) (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "electricity meter 1" and "electricity meter 2"). The power grid 130 transmits and distributes electricity through a power transmission and distribution company, and the generated electricity is sent through this power grid 130. Information from the electricity trading system is transmitted and received via the server 140. The server 140 is managed by the retail electricity provider. Information obtained by the transmission and distribution company may also be transmitted to the retail electricity provider.

[0014] (1) A power generation device 100 that utilizes renewable energy. The present invention comprises a power generation device 100 that utilizes renewable energy. Examples of renewable energy include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy. Solar power generation devices or wind power generation devices are preferred, and solar power generation devices are preferred because they are easy to install in buildings such as homes and company buildings, and more specifically, solar panels are preferred.

[0015] (2) Charging device 150 for charging electric vehicles The present invention includes a charging device 150 for charging an electric vehicle. The charging device 150 is a device that supplies power to a battery installed in an electric vehicle 120, using the power grid 130 (including power generated by the power generation device 100 of the present invention) or a battery storage device as a power source.

[0016] (2.1) Functions of the charging device 150 The charging device 150 performs charging in response to commands from the server 140, which will be described later. The server 140 is equipped with an integrated operation management function, which will be described later. Therefore, the charging device 150 transmits information to the server 140 regarding the status of the charging device (notification of charging completion or abnormality) and its operating status, and the server 140 notifies the users of the charging device.

[0017] (2.2) Installation location of the charging device 150 Since the electric vehicle 120 is for use by the owner of the power generator, the charging device 150 may be installed at the owner's home or company. In that case, the owner can generate electricity with their home power generator and use that electricity to charge the electric vehicle 120 that they use (self-consumption).

[0018] The charging station 150 may be installed in the parking lot of a store or commercial facility 200 (hereinafter, stores or commercial facilities 200 where the charging station is installed may be referred to as "hub facilities"). When the charging station 150 is installed in the parking lot of a store or commercial facility 200, electric vehicle users can enjoy shopping or dining at the commercial facility 200 while waiting for their vehicle to charge, making effective use of their waiting time. Here, the commercial facility 200 includes not only shopping malls, department stores, and supermarkets, but also facilities such as home improvement stores, restaurants, sports clubs, train stations, and highway service areas, and is not particularly limited as long as the charging station 150 is installed. It refers to a place where people spend a certain amount of time running errands or spending time at that facility.

[0019] The base facility may, as needed, share information about the expected length of stay and interests (purpose of visit) of current charging station users with shops and other facilities within the base facility to support customer acquisition. For example, if the purpose of visit is lunch, information about customer trends may be shared with the cafeteria and other facilities, and advertisements tailored to that customer may be notified. As will be explained in more detail later, it is also possible to change the usage fee for charging stations or to impose restrictions on charging modes.

[0020] The charging device 150 installed in the commercial facility 200 is used by an unspecified number of people. On the other hand, in this invention, in order for the server 140 to calculate the settlement amount, it is necessary to have purchase information (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "purchase information") regarding the amount of electricity purchased and the time of purchase when transmitting the electricity generated by the power generator 100 to the power grid 130, and sales information (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "sales information") regarding the amount of electricity sold and the time of sale when charging with the charging device 150. For this reason, when charging, the server 140 must identify the owner of the power generator. For this reason, it is preferable that the server 140 authenticates that the user of the charging device is the owner of the power generator based on the information of the owner of the power generator entered into the authentication terminal 230, which will be described later, and then the server 140 calculates the settlement amount. Here, "authentication that the user of the charging device is the owner of the power generator" means authenticating that the user of the charging device is the owner of the power generator not only when the user of the charging device and the owner of the power generator are the same person, but also when a relative or employee of the owner of the power generator uses the charging device. In other words, authentication is performed as described above if the person who can use the electricity generated by the power generator 100 to charge the electric vehicle 120 is the user of the charging device.

[0021] Furthermore, if the electric vehicle 120 has an ID and the electric vehicle owner and the power generator owner are linked on the server 140, the power generator owner may be directly identified from the ID of the electric vehicle 120 by utilizing the communication function between the charging device 150 and the electric vehicle 120.

[0022] It is preferable that multiple charging devices 150 are installed in the commercial facility 200, and that users of the charging devices 150 can freely choose which charging device 150 they want to use. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the system configuration of the charging devices 150 in the commercial facility 200, and each charging device is equipped with a communication-enabled energy meter 2 (160). Furthermore, a communication-enabled energy meter 0 (170) may be provided to manage the connection between each communication-enabled energy meter and the power grid 130.

[0023] Furthermore, the charging method can be either normal charging or rapid charging, but it is preferable that the user of the charging device can choose. The charging device 150 can be broadly divided into, for example, a rapid charging device 151 and a normal charging device 153 (hereinafter, the rapid charging device 151 and the normal charging device 153 will be collectively referred to as the charging device 150). As shown in Figure 2B, the normal charging system is a charging system that performs normal charging of the electric vehicle 120 using commercial power supplied from the power grid 130, etc. The normal charging system is provided with a branching section, and the rapid charging system branches off from the normal charging system at the branching section. The rapid charging system has a rapid charging device 151, and the rapid charging device 151 may also have a rapid charging battery 152 built in. The normal charging device 153 and the rapid charging device 151 are equipped with a connector 180, and the electric vehicle 120 is charged via the connector.

[0024] (3) Server 140 This invention includes a server 140. The server 140 may be installed on the cloud. The server 140 has the following functions. Some of the functions shown below may be placed as a local server at the location where the charging device 150 is installed. The local server plays the role of relaying information between the charging device user and the charging device installation location. The purpose of installing the local server is to inform the administrator of the charging device installation location of the usage status of the charging device.

[0025] (3.1) Server function 1: Data storage Server 140 stores data on fluctuations in the amount of electricity supplied, the amount of electricity demanded in the region, or the purchase price of electricity from owners of renewable energy power generation equipment or the purchase price of electricity sold to users of charging equipment that charge electric vehicles 120 during a predetermined time period, and calculates the price of purchased or sold electricity based on this data.

[0026] Since the purchase price or sale price of electricity fluctuates, server 140 stores fluctuating data and calculates the price of purchased or sold electricity based on that data. Market prices and time-of-use pricing from JEPX (Japan Electric Power Exchange) may be used as reference. JEPX has established a spot market (1-day-ahead market) as its primary trading market, but either data can be stored, and it is even better to store both. For the purpose of explaining this invention, Figure 3A shows an example of the JEPX spot market (1-day-ahead market) based on the trend of trading prices, and Figure 3B shows an example of the time-ahead market (trading market after spot contracts are made). Data other than JEPX may be stored as long as it reflects the trading price of electricity. Note that JEPX prices are displayed in 30-minute increments, so if JEPX is used, data will be stored in 30-minute increments.

[0027] For example, in Figure 3B, it can be seen that while the pre-hourly price is stable when price fluctuations are small, such as at night, price fluctuations are volatile during the hours when power generation equipment is in operation, as this is affected by the weather. On the day the data in Figure 3 was obtained, the pre-hourly price around midday was higher than the spot price, so it is preferable to calculate the electricity purchase price or selling price by referring to both the spot market data and the pre-hourly market data.

[0028] (3.2) Server function 2: Price calculation of purchased or sold electricity Server 140 calculates the price of purchased or sold electricity based on accumulated fluctuating data. Specifically, Server 140 compares the amount of electricity generated by solar power generation equipment 100 installed at a home or other location with the amount of electricity used by charging equipment 150 installed at a location different from the location of the power generation equipment (home or office), and settles the electricity charges. The method of settling electricity charges will be described later.

[0029] (3.3) Server Function 3: Customer Management To calculate the settlement amount of electricity, information on electricity purchased and electricity sold is necessary. Therefore, server 140 is equipped with a customer management function. Specifically, it is preferable to perform the following tasks. The system identifies the owner of the power generator based on the owner information entered into the authentication terminal 230. • If necessary, verify the power generation forecast / actual power generation performance of the power generation equipment owner and set output targets when using the charging equipment.

[0030] (3.4) Server Function 4: Integrated Operation Management The server 140 of the present invention also manages the overall operation to ensure that the power trading system functions properly. Specifically, it is preferable to perform the following tasks. In addition to charging operations selected by users of charging equipment, charging equipment operations will be implemented in accordance with the conditions of the electricity market (shifting charging times according to market conditions). • Management and maintenance of the operating status of related systems (such as completion of charging device operation or malfunctions). • Management of available charging device information (supports searching for available information via authentication app).

[0031] (3.5) Server Function 5: Web Server Function The server 140 of the present invention preferably has a web server function. Users of the charging device can access the charging device 150 from an authentication application installed on the authentication terminal 230 (described later) and input user information into the charging device 150. In response to such access from charging device users, the server 140 of the present invention provides convenience to charging device users when using the charging device by distributing various information and content such as web pages composed of HTML, video, audio, images, etc., and can also guide charging device users to shift their charging time in accordance with market conditions for electricity trading prices.

[0032] Specifically, the server 140 of the present invention preferably displays the following information or web pages on the terminal of the charging device user or on the screen of the charging device 150. • Landing pages for checking the success or failure of authentication, and for searching for charging devices. • Information specific to each charging station, such as changes in the location of the charging station, and the travel routes to the charging station for those wishing to use it. • Detailed information regarding charging device 150 located within the charging device installation site. • Information regarding the locations of charging stations, such as information about stores and commercial facilities 200 (it is also possible to forward information transmitted from stores and commercial facilities 200 to users of the charging stations).

[0033] (3.6) Server function 6: Charging management The server 140 of the present invention preferably performs charging management. Specifically, it is preferable to perform the following operations. • Develop individual charging plans tailored to the charging conditions desired by users of the charging equipment. For example, if a user of a charging device enters their charging preference into the authentication terminal 230, such as "charge to XX% in the shortest time possible" or "charge according to the power generation amount of the power generator," the server 140 will create an individual charging plan such as "charge at △△kW from XX to XX, and at 〇△kW from XX to □□." This allows the server 140 to understand the planned power usage for each charging device 150 and create an overall charging plan. - Data necessary for planning the charging schedule (for example, charging control data specified by server 140, such as the power generation performance of the power generation equipment, power generation forecast, market price trends, and maximum power for charging according to market conditions for electricity trading prices) is obtained from communication-enabled electricity meters 1 (110) and 2 (160), and the trading market, etc. 300. Alternatively, information entered into the authentication terminal 230 is received. In particular, by obtaining the energy values ​​from communication-enabled electricity meters 1 (110) and 2 (160), discrepancies between the energy values ​​of electricity meters 1 (110) and 2 (160) are monitored. Furthermore, discrepancies between the charging plan and the energy value of electricity meter 2 (160) due to charging power suppression or trouble with the charging equipment are monitored. If multiple charging devices 150 are installed in stores or commercial facilities 200, an overall charging plan (integrated charging plan) is created based on the individual charging plans of the charging devices 150 connected to them (for example, to reduce demand, charging device A charges at XXkW from XX to △△, but charging device B provides the fastest charging from XX to 〇△, so charging device A charges at XXkW from 〇△ to △△, etc.). According to the devised charging plan, the server 140 issues commands such as target operating values ​​to each charging device 150. Server 140 can change or modify charging conditions and charging plans as needed, depending on the usage status and load of the charging equipment.

[0034] (3.7) Server Function 7: Information Management (including service information) The server 140 of the present invention preferably performs information management. Specifically, it is preferable to perform the following tasks. Based on the information of the power generation equipment owner entered into the authentication terminal 230, the system identifies the owner of the power generation equipment (authentication function). • Confirm the charging mode preferred by the user of the charging device. • Notifies users of the charging device of the charging status, such as "Charging complete" or "Charging abnormality." • Inform users of the charging station about the usage fees, usage status, and operating status. • Manages reservations for charging devices. We request information regarding the purpose of use of charging station users (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "purpose of visit") at the charging station location. (This information may include search results, etc.) • Information such as the purpose of the visit is transmitted to a system (e.g., a customer terminal 210) owned by the store or commercial facility 200. • Answer inquiries from users of charging devices.

[0035] (4) Electricity meter with communication function 1 (110) The communication-enabled electricity meter 1(110) transmits information about the power generation device 100 to the server 140. Examples include smart meters. The communication-enabled electricity meter 1(110) measures the amount of electricity purchased and the time of purchase when transmitting the electricity generated by the power generation device 100 to the power grid 130 at regular time intervals and transmits this information to the server 140. It also transmits the power generation status of the power generation device 100 to the server 140.

[0036] "A fixed time interval" means dividing the day into several time slots (frames) and transmitting information for each of those frames. There are no restrictions on the measurement interval, but in order to match the measured values ​​of the amount of electricity generated from the power generation device 100 and the amount of electricity charged from the charging device 150 within the same time slot, it is preferable that the measurement interval be the same as or shorter than that of the communication-enabled power meter 2(160). Specifically, transmissions shorter than 30-minute intervals are preferable, and transmissions at 1-10 minute intervals are even more preferable.

[0037] (5) Energy meters with communication function 0 (170) and 2 (160) A communication-enabled power meter 2 (160) is installed for each charging device 150, measures the amount of electricity sold by the charging device 150, and transmits this information to the server 140. Specifically, it measures the amount of electricity sold and the time of sale when charging from the power grid 130 to the charging device 150, and transmits this sales information to the server 140 at regular time intervals. The "regular time interval" is as described above, and specifically, transmissions shorter than 30-minute intervals are preferable, with transmissions at 1-10 minute intervals being even more preferable.

[0038] In particular, when the amount of electricity generated by the power generator 100 is made dependent on the amount of electricity charged from the charging device 150, as in "Individual Charging Plan 3" described later, it is preferable to synchronize the time of the electricity measured by the communication-enabled power meter 1 (110) and the communication-enabled power meter 2 (160), and to control the amount of electricity charged (i.e., the amount of electricity sold) so that the value of the communication-enabled power meter 2 (160) matches the electricity measured by the communication-enabled power meter 1 (110). Here, for example, in order to match the amount of electricity in 30-minute intervals, it becomes necessary to measure at intervals shorter than 30 minutes and constantly control the charging power so that the error is small, so it is preferable to measure at shorter intervals.

[0039] If multiple charging devices 150 are installed in the commercial facility 200, it is preferable to provide a communication-enabled energy meter 2 (160) that sends and receives information input to each charging device 150. In this case, since there is generally only one power receiving point (connection point to the power system 130), it is also possible to provide a communication-enabled energy meter 0 (Figure 2A) (170) that manages the connection between the multiple communication-enabled energy meters 2 (160) and the power system 130. The communication-enabled energy meter 0 (170) plays a role in consolidating each communication-enabled energy meter 2 (160), and also measures the total power load of the multiple charging devices 150 and the commercial facility 200 and transmits it to the server 140. Providing a communication-enabled energy meter 0 (170) is preferable because it allows the connection point with the power transmission and distribution company to be consolidated into one location.

[0040] Here, since the value of the power meter 0(170) represents the total amount of power consumed in the commercial facility 200, including the charging device 150, it is preferable for the server 140 to operate the charging device 150 so that the value of the power meter 0(170) does not exceed the past maximum power consumption, from the viewpoint of suppressing the maximum power consumption of the commercial facility 200 and from the viewpoint of suppressing the demand of the retail electricity provider. Specifically, it is preferable for the server 140 to adjust the charging plans of charging device users visiting the commercial facility 200. For example, the server 140 may enable the commercial facility 200 to provide customers with information such as issuing coupons usable at stores within the commercial facility 200 to charging device users who cooperate in suppressing charging, or reducing parking fees if users contribute to suppressing charging by staying at the commercial facility 200 for a long time, through their customer terminals 210.

[0041] [2] Trading methods for the electricity trading system When server 140 receives a charging completion report from charging device 150, it calculates the settlement amount using the method described above. The method for calculating the settlement amount is explained in detail below.

[0042] (1) Method of calculating the settlement amount (1.1) Settlement amount The settlement amount is calculated as follows. First, the settlement amount for electricity is calculated using the following formula (3). Calculated electricity amount = Amount of electricity sold during a specific time period (kWh) - Amount of electricity purchased during the same specific time period (kWh) ... (3)

[0043] In this invention, the owner of the power generator charges an electric vehicle 120 used by the owner. If the owner has a power generator 100 at home or at work and uses an electric vehicle 120, then if the electric vehicle 120 is at home or at work during the daytime when surplus power increases, the generated power can be used to charge the electric vehicle 120. However, in reality, the owner is often out during the day and the electric vehicle 120 is not at home or at work, making charging impossible.

[0044] In this invention, the server 140 calculates the settlement amount based on the information of the power generation equipment owner entered into the authentication terminal 230. Therefore, even if the power generation equipment owner charges the electric vehicle 120 while away from home, they can buy and sell electricity at the same price as if they charged it at home or at work. For the owner of the power generation equipment 100, this is a transaction at a price that makes owning the power generation equipment 100 worthwhile. Furthermore, for retail electricity providers, it is advantageous because they can sell electricity even during the daytime when there is a large surplus of electricity. In addition, by proposing a pricing system that includes information provision to charging equipment installers, there is also the advantage of being able to retain customers.

[0045] It is preferable that when the value of the settlement amount of electricity is positive, the server 140 calculates the settlement amount using formula (1) with the settlement unit price as the electricity sales unit price, when the value of the settlement amount of electricity is negative, the server 140 calculates the settlement amount using formula (1) with the settlement unit price as the electricity purchase unit price, and when the value of the settlement amount of electricity is zero, the server 140 calculates the settlement amount using formula (1) with the settlement unit price as the operating fee. Settlement amount (yen) = Settlement amount of electricity (kWh) × Settlement unit price (yen / kWh) + Operating fee (yen) ... (1)

[0046] In other words, If the amount of electricity to be settled is > 0, the settlement price (yen / kWh) will be set to "the amount of electricity sold by power system 130" and the selling price (yen / kWh) will be the same. If the amount of electricity to be settled is < 0, it will be considered as "the amount of electricity purchased by power system 130," and the settlement price (yen / kWh) will be equal to the purchase price (yen / kWh). When the settlement amount is 0, the operating fee will be the settlement amount. When the settlement amount is 0, that is, when the electricity generated by the power generator 100 is used for self-consumption by charging the electric vehicle 120, only the operating fee will be charged.

[0047] The purchase price of electricity refers to the price at which electricity is sold by the owner of a power generation device (i.e., the user of an electric vehicle) to a retail electricity provider, while the selling price of electricity refers to the price at which electricity is purchased by the user of a charging device from a retail electricity provider.

[0048] Both the electricity purchase price and the electricity sales price are calculated by the server 140 based on fluctuation data (for example, the price on the JEPX spot market or the price on the advance market) relating to the amount of electricity supplied, the amount of electricity demanded, or the price of electricity purchased from owners of renewable energy power generation equipment or the price of electricity sold to owners of charging equipment that charges the electric vehicle 120 during a predetermined time period in the region. Specifically, it is preferable that the server 140 uses the electricity sales price or electricity purchase price used to calculate the settlement amount as the price during the time period when the electric vehicle 120 is charged, which is stored in the server 140.

[0049] Here, the electricity selling price and the electricity buying price may differ depending on the time of day. "Per time of day" means that the electricity selling price and the electricity buying price are determined at regular intervals, and the prices may be determined in 30-minute increments or in 1-minute increments. The retail electricity providers for buying and selling electricity may be different, but it is preferable that they be the same.

[0050] (1.2) Management fees The management fee is preferably given by formula (2). An overview of the management fee is shown in Figure 4. Operating fee = Amount of electricity sold (kWh) × Grid usage fee (yen / kWh) + Charging equipment usage fee (yen) ... (2)

[0051] The charging station owner can set the usage fee. They may set a price per charge, or a price based on parking time. Alternatively, they may set a combined price, such as calculating the usage fee as one charge until charging is complete, and then switching to a time-based price afterward. A combined price is preferable because it allows for flexible adjustment of costs based on parking time and charging method (e.g., "fast charger," "standard charger"). This is because the cost of charging varies depending on the charging mode, parking time, and type of charging station (e.g., "fast charger," "standard charger"). A cost equivalent to the parking fee may also be added to the price.

[0052] The fee for using the charging station may vary depending on the time of day. For example, if there are 150 charging stations in the parking lot of a store or commercial facility 200, the fee for using the charging station may be changed according to how busy the store or commercial facility 200 is, as follows. The charger can change the fee by entering it into the customer terminal 210.

[0053] If customer congestion during peak hours, such as lunchtime, negatively impacts store operations, possible solutions include raising the charging fee during those times to encourage customer turnover, or restricting charging methods, such as only allowing the use of fast charging mode. To reduce instances of electric vehicles being left unattended after charging is complete, a time-based parking fee system (charging based on parking time) could be implemented after charging is finished.

[0054] On the other hand, during off-peak hours when there are few customers, methods to encourage customers to stay include lowering the electricity usage fee for charging equipment to attract (and retain) customers, or disabling fast charging and allowing charging in normal charging or a charging mode that matches the amount of power generated by the generator 100, thereby lowering the cost per charge for customers and encouraging them to stay at the store. It may also be possible to intentionally slow down charging to prevent customers from staying for a long time (or moving to another nearby facility).

[0055] Alternatively, electric vehicle users can make charging reservations specifying the time. For example, if an electric vehicle user makes a charging reservation specifying the time by a certain deadline, such as the day before, the charging fee may be discounted. Conversely, if a user makes a charging reservation but cancels without notice, a penalty may be imposed. The reservation system, penalty policies, etc., can be determined by the retail electricity provider.

[0056] The charging device usage fee is determined by the charging device owner and can be entered into the customer terminal 210. Furthermore, since the charging device usage fee changes according to the store's usage status, it is possible to change it in real time from the customer terminal 210. Because the charging device user needs to know the settlement amount before using the charging device 150, it is preferable that the information regarding the charging device usage fee entered into the customer terminal 210 is transmitted to the server 140, and that the server 140 notifies the charging device user's authentication terminal either as part of the settlement amount or as a breakdown of the settlement amount.

[0057] (2) Specific examples of methods for calculating settlement amounts The method for calculating the settlement amount according to the present invention will be specifically explained using Figure 5. Assume the current time is 11:30 and that the transaction shown in Figure 5 has occurred when all transactions have been completed. In the present invention, the owner of a power generation device utilizing renewable energy uses the electric vehicle 120.

[0058] At the 10 o'clock transaction, 10 kWh of electricity is sent from the power generator 100 to the power grid 130, and 15 kWh is consumed by the charging device 150. The amount of electricity settled at this time is, according to formula (3), Since the settled electricity amount = 15kWh - 10kWh = 5kWh > 0, according to equation (1), The settlement amount is calculated as follows: 5 (kWh) × electricity sales price (yen / kWh) + operating fee (yen). In other words, the owner of the power generation equipment will pay the above settlement amount to the retail electricity provider.

[0059] In the 10:30 trading session, 12 kWh of electricity is sent from power generator 100 to power grid 130, and 5 kWh is consumed by charging device 150. According to formula (3), the settlement amount at this time is -7 kWh, which is negative. Therefore, using formula (1), The settlement amount is calculated as follows: 7 (kWh) × electricity purchase price (yen / kWh) + operating fee (yen). In other words, the retail electricity provider will pay the above settlement amount to the owner of the power generation equipment.

[0060] In the 11:00 transaction, 3kWh of electricity is sent from power generator 100 to power grid 130, and 3kWh is consumed by charging device 150. According to formula (3), the amount of electricity to be settled at this time is 0kWh, so by formula (1), the settlement amount equals the operating fee.

[0061] A key feature of this invention is that even if an electric vehicle 120 used by an owner of a renewable energy power generation device is charged at a location different from the power generation device's installation site (away from home), electricity can be bought and sold at the same price as if it were charged at home or at the office. In particular, at the time of trading at 11:00, the electric vehicle 120 can be charged while away from home for only the operating fee.

[0062] [3] System overview of the electricity trading system The system overview of the present invention will be explained using Figure 6. Furthermore, the power generation device 100, the energy meter with communication function 1 (110), the charging device 150, and the energy meter with communication function 2 (160) have the functions described above.

[0063] (1) Trading markets etc. 300 Obtain price trends in the electricity market. Conduct electricity market transactions.

[0064] (2) Authentication terminal 230 The authentication terminal 230 refers to a mobile phone or authentication card equipped with an authentication app owned by the user of the charging device. When the power generation device owner uses the charging device 150, the information of the power generation device owner entered into the authentication terminal 230, or the information of the power generation device owner via the authentication app or authentication card, is transmitted to the server 140. Based on the transmitted information, the server 140 recognizes that the user of the charging device is the power generation device owner, links the electricity sales information and electricity purchase information, and calculates the settlement amount. The information of the power generation device owner is not particularly limited as long as it can identify the power generation device owner, for example, the power generation device owner ID.

[0065] When using an authentication app, authentication may be performed by displaying a QR code on the screen of the charging device user's mobile phone and having the charging device 150's operation screen read it. When using an authentication card, one example is to hold it over the operation screen of the charging device 150. Note that printed materials such as authentication cards may become unreadable due to damage or be altered by vandalism, so it is desirable to use a method that prevents tampering. Alternatively, the charging device 150 and the mobile phone may directly access each other via short-range communication using a device ID for short-range communication. The authentication app allows users to specify the charging mode and enter their planned stay duration and purpose of use (store information, etc.). This information can be entered by users via a URL specific to the charging device location, displayed on the screen where users select a charging device 150 or specify the charging mode in the authentication app.

[0066] If users of charging stations can use this URL to provide information that stores and other businesses need, incentives such as discounts on parking fees (charging station usage fees) or access to store coupons could be offered. This would be beneficial for both parties: stores could obtain the information they need, and charging station users could pay less.

[0067] (3) Customer terminal 210 The customer terminal 210 is preferably owned by the base facility. The customer terminal 210 can receive from the server 140 information about the charging device user and the results of searches conducted by the charging device user on the Web (which may be anonymized or statistically processed as necessary). However, the server 140 can only transmit to the customer terminal 210 information that has been received by the charging device user and which the charging device user has authorized to provide to the base facility where the charging device 150 is installed.

[0068] Based on this information, the customer terminal 210 can notify the charging device user's authentication terminal 230 of information about stores the charging device user plans to use and topics of interest (such as store sale information, recommendations, and coupons). The customer terminal 210 can also modify the web page displayed on the charging device user's authentication terminal 230 and set (upload) conditions such as surveys.

[0069] The customer terminal 210 can, as needed, notify the store or other establishment where the charging station is installed of information such as the expected length of stay and the user's interests (purpose of use, etc.), thereby supporting customer attraction (for example, if the user came for lunch, the terminal can send information about the user's behavior to the restaurant or other establishment and send advertisements to the user accordingly).

[0070] Furthermore, it is preferable that the information obtained by the customer terminal 210 from the server 140 and transmitted by the customer terminal 210 to the store is anonymized or statistically processed so as not to include personal information of the charging device user, such as email addresses.

[0071] [4] Flow of information in the electricity trading system Figure 6 illustrates the flow of information in the electricity trading system.

[0072] Route I Server 140 obtains electricity purchase information from the communication-enabled electricity meter 1(110), including the amount of electricity purchased and the time of purchase transmitted from the power generation device 100 to the power grid 130. The ID of the power generation device owner is already determined by the contract between the power generation device owner and the retail electricity provider, and is therefore stored within Server 140.

[0073] Route II Additionally, server 140 obtains electricity sales information from the communication-enabled electricity meter 2 (160) regarding the amount of electricity sold and the time of sale when charging the electric vehicle 120.

[0074] Route III The charging device 150 transmits information such as the status and operating status of the charging device, the charging status, and notifications in case of abnormalities to the server 140. In addition, if the user of the charging device inputs their desired charging mode (normal charging / fast charging) and the time of charging completion to the charging device 150, the charging device 150 transmits information necessary for planning the charging schedule and the information of the power generator owner entered by the user to the server 140. Server 140 issues a charging command to the charging device 150. It also transmits the charging device operation policy (overall operation). Furthermore, Server 140 transmits the result of identifying the power generator owner to the charging device 150, and, if requested by the charging device 150, transmits information necessary for carrying out the charging plan (such as the power generation status of power generator 100).

[0075] Route IV When a user of the charging device identifies the charging device 150 using the authentication terminal 230 and starts charging, information is transmitted from the authentication terminal 230 to the charging device 150, or the authentication terminal 230 obtains information to identify the charging device 150.

[0076] Root V From the authentication terminal 230 to the server 140, information about the power generator owner, such as the power generator owner ID, is transmitted, and the server 140 confirms that the charging device user is the power generator owner. Furthermore, information entered by the charging device user (charging conditions, location of the charging device, information about the use of the charging device, desired time for charging completion, departure time from commercial facility 200, and other planned actions of the charging device user, reservations (parking time), inquiries, etc.) is also transmitted.

[0077] Meanwhile, the following information is sent from server 140 to authentication terminal 230. • Information regarding the location of the charging station. • Information regarding the usage status of charging devices. • Information regarding the use of charging devices, such as pricing information. • Charging plan (The server 140 proposes a charging plan based on the information entered into the authentication terminal 230). ·Charging completion notification. • Responses to inquiries from users of charging devices.

[0078] Specifically, if someone considering using a charging device searches for available charging devices at the nearest location using an authentication app, the server 140 may display information such as the availability and price of the charging devices in the authentication app.

[0079] Furthermore, if a retail electricity provider in the power grid 130 or a base facility where the charging device 150 is installed requests a change to the electricity sales time entered by the electric vehicle user, the server 140 may notify the electric vehicle user accordingly. The server 140 may also notify the customer terminal 210, or it may notify the contact information entered by the electric vehicle user in advance.

[0080] Route VI Server 140 transmits to the customer terminal 210 information regarding the use of the charging device location by the charging device user, the charging device usage status, and information entered by the charging device user that the server 140 has received and which the charging device user has authorized to provide to the base facility where the charging device 150 is installed. Specifically, the following information is transmitted: • Charging time (planned stay time). The charging time is based on the time specified by the charging mode (for example, the specified charging completion time, or the time until charging is complete calculated from the specified charging method). • Areas of interest for users of charging devices (stores and purposes: for example, buying clothes, having lunch, etc., and if they use a dedicated webpage, their search and browsing information). The areas of interest of charging device users are obtained from the usage status of a dedicated web server located on a local server, or from a questionnaire displayed when the charging method is specified. Meanwhile, the customer terminal 210 sends to the server 140 notifications from the charging device installation location to the charging device user, as well as price information set by the charging device installation location.

[0081] Route VII The customer terminal 210 can transmit to the base facility information obtained from the server 140 that has been entered by the charging device user and authorized to be provided to the base facility. The transmitted information may be anonymized, but it is preferable that the information transmitted to the base facility be assigned an ID so that the store or other facility at the base facility can ultimately send coupons and other information to the charging device user. The ID referred to here is a simple ID assigned by the server 140 for the purpose of transmitting information to the customer terminal 210 and the store, and may be a one-time use ID.

[0082] If the information entered by the charging device user is anonymized, neither the customer terminal 210 nor the store can identify which charging device user entered which information. Therefore, the store that receives the information can, if necessary, send coupons or other information to the customer terminal 210 along with the ID attached to the information sent to the store, and the customer terminal 210 can then forward that information to the server 140. Since the charging device user and the aforementioned ID are linked within the server 140, the server 140 can forward the information sent from the customer terminal 210 to the charging device user's authentication terminal 230 based on the ID.

[0083] Route VIII Server 140 receives data necessary for electricity trading and estimation of power generation, such as electricity trading price information and weather forecasts, from trading markets and other sources 300.

[0084] [5] Selecting charging conditions Users of the charging device may select charging conditions and specify the amount of power to be charged. If the user of the charging device inputs their desired charging conditions and amount of power to the authentication terminal 230 shown in Figure 6, the server 140 may formulate a charging plan and propose the formulated plan to the user of the charging device via the authentication terminal 230. This is referred to as an individual charging plan.

[0085] In this invention, it is assumed that the user of the charging device will input the following charging conditions. • Fastest charging (for the shortest charging time: see Individual Charging Plan 1 below). • Normal charging (not the fastest charging method, but charging to reach the target time: described later as Individual Charging Plan 2). • Coordination with the power generation device 100 (charging according to the amount of power generated by the power generation device 100: described later as individual charging plan 3). • Optimal charging based on the planned parking time (a combination of the three charging methods mentioned above).

[0086] Regarding the amount of power to be charged, it is assumed that users of the charging device will input the following conditions. • Fully charged (up to 100% SOC (State of Charge)). • Specify kWh (for example, charging up to 10kWh). • SOC-specified charging (for example, charging to 90% SOC). • Normal charging that matches the amount of electricity generated by the power generator 100 (charging that matches the amount of electricity output by the power generator 100). • If electricity prices fluctuate over time, charging will only occur when the price falls below the target price.

[0087] (1) Individual charging plan 1 (when charging in the shortest time) The charging plan devised by server 140 charges the battery of electric vehicle 120 using the available power. If the charging pattern is fixed, such as when the maximum charging power is determined when charging via the electric vehicle 120's charging plug, the time required to reach the target SOC (e.g., 100% if fully charged) from the current SOC (State of Charge) is calculated and used as the charging time. For example, if a 60kWh battery with a 30% SOC is to be charged to an 80% SOC (SOH (State of Health) of 100%), then 30kWh of charging is required. If 50kW of charging is possible at the current time of 10:00, then 30kWh ÷ 50kW = 0.6 hours, so charging will be completed around 10:36.

[0088] Furthermore, with this charging method, the charging device cannot adjust the charging time. Also, since charging must be done independently of the power generated by the owned power generator 100, there is little financial benefit for the user of the charging device.

[0089] (2) Individual charging plan 2 (when charging by the target time) The charging plan devised by server 140 calculates the time required for charging based on the amount of electricity to be charged, using the maximum charging power and other factors determined by the battery of electric vehicle 120. For example, if you want to charge a 60kWh battery with a 30% SOC to 80% SOC (assuming a 100% SOH (State of Health)), you will need to charge 30kWh. If the current time is 10:00 and the desired completion time is 12:00, then you should charge at 30kWh ÷ 2 hours = 15kW (Plan 1 in Figure 7).

[0090] On the other hand, assuming that the charging device 150 is capable of outputting 50kW and the battery of the electric vehicle 120 is compatible with that, charging can be completed in 30kWh ÷ 50kW = 0.6 hours (Plan 2 in Figure 7).

[0091] As shown in Figure 7A, the server 140 displays Plan 1 and Plan 2 on the authentication terminal 230, allowing the user of the charging device to select either plan. Although there are 2 hours until the desired charging completion time, charging can be completed in 36 minutes at the shortest possible time, leaving 1 hour and 24 minutes available for shifting the charging time in the overall charging plan.

[0092] (3) Individual charging plan 3 (when dependent on the amount of power generated by the power generation device 100) The charging plan devised by server 140 is to charge the same amount of power simultaneously for 30 minutes, in principle, according to the amount of power generated. Since the amount of power charged depends on the amount of power generated by power generator 100, the State of Charge (SOC) cannot be specified. Users of the charging device can set or change the time period for charging.

[0093] (4) Comprehensive Charging Plan 1 In the integrated charging plan, users of the charging equipment input their desired charging method into the authentication terminal 230, but the server 140 can also formulate an integrated charging plan based on the power usage conditions at the charging station. This offers financial benefits to users of the charging equipment, and also benefits stores and commercial facilities 200 equipped with charging equipment 150, as users can select from plans with varying charging times and power consumption proposed by the server 140, enabling advantageous charging control.

[0094] To explain the benefits for stores and commercial facilities 200 in more detail, lowering the maximum power consumption reduces the annual basic charge, so commercial facilities 200 want to control their power consumption to avoid exceeding the maximum power consumption. On the other hand, it is not practical to reduce the power consumption at the charging equipment installation locations (such as turning off lights in the store or reducing the operation of air conditioners and refrigerators) in order to prevent the power used by the charging equipment 150 and the charging equipment installation locations (i.e., stores and commercial facilities 200) from exceeding the maximum power consumption. Therefore, it is more effective to control the amount of power used for charging by the charging equipment.

[0095] For retail electricity providers, this also allows for utilization in the supply and demand adjustment market and the shift of charging equipment usage to times when electricity prices are lower. Specifically, the maximum power consumption can be reduced by the following methods.

[0096] (4.1) When there is only one charging device 150 in a store or commercial facility 200, etc. If the load due to electricity demand exceeds a certain value, the charging power will be reduced or the charging time will be shifted to suppress the power peak and prevent the peak from exceeding the target. In other words, referring to Figure 7A above, it is possible to complete charging in 0.6 hours (charging completed at 10:36) (Plan 2), but if the user of the charging device has set the desired charging completion time to 12:00, shifting the charging time (Figure 7B) may reduce the peak power of commercial facility 200. Alternatively, in combination with other charging devices in the city, the charging power may be reduced or the charging time shifted to reduce the load.

[0097] (4.2) When there are multiple charging devices 150 in stores or commercial facilities 200 etc. The implementation is the same as when there is only one charging device (150), but the server 140 changes the charging plan each time the number of electric vehicles 120 to be charged increases or decreases. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 Power generation equipment 110 Electricity meter with communication function 1 120 Electric Vehicles 130 Power system 140 servers 150 Charging device 151 Rapid charging device 152 Fast Charging Battery 153 Normal charging device 160 Electricity meter with communication function 2 170 Energy meter with communication function 0 180 connectors 200 commercial facilities 210 Customer terminals 221 Store 1 222 stores 2 223 stores 3 230 Authentication terminal 300 Trading Markets, etc.

Claims

1. A power generation device that utilizes renewable energy, A charging device for electric vehicles, A server that stores data on fluctuations in the amount of electricity supplied, the amount of electricity demanded, or the purchase price of electricity from owners of renewable energy power generation equipment or the purchase price of electricity sold to owners of charging equipment for electric vehicles during a specified time period, and calculates the price of purchased or sold electricity based on this data, A power meter 1 with a communication function transmits power purchase information, including the amount of electricity purchased and the time of purchase, to the server at regular time intervals when transmitting electricity generated by the aforementioned renewable energy power generation device to the power grid. A power meter 2 with a communication function transmits to the server at regular intervals power sales information regarding the amount of electricity sold and the time of electricity sold when an electric vehicle used by the owner of the renewable energy power generation device is charged from the power grid using the charging device, In a power trading system equipped with, A power trading system in which, when the time of electricity purchase and the time of electricity sale are in the same time period, the settlement amount for charging is calculated by multiplying the settlement amount, which is obtained by subtracting the amount of electricity purchased transmitted from the communication-enabled electricity meter 1 from the amount of electricity sold transmitted from the communication-enabled electricity meter 2 during the time period, by the settlement unit price.

2. When the value of the settled power consumption is positive, the server Based on formula (1), the settlement amount is calculated using the settlement price as the electricity sales price. When the value of the aforementioned settlement power amount is negative, Based on formula (1), the settlement amount is calculated using the settlement unit price as the electricity purchase unit price. When the value of the aforementioned settlement power amount is zero, The electricity trading system according to claim 1, wherein the operating fee is settled based on formula (1). Settlement amount (yen) = Settlement amount of electricity (kWh) × Settlement unit price (yen / kWh) + Operating fee (yen) ... (1)

3. The electricity trading system according to claim 2, wherein the aforementioned operating fee is given by formula (2). Operating fee = Amount of electricity sold (kWh) × Grid usage fee (yen / kWh) + Charging equipment usage fee (yen) ... (2)

4. The power trading system according to claim 2, wherein the server uses the electricity selling price or electricity buying price used to calculate the settlement amount as the price during the time period for charging the electric vehicle, which is stored in the server.

5. The electricity trading system according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned fixed time interval is 1 minute to 10 minutes.

6. The power trading system according to claim 1, wherein when charging the electric vehicle with the charging device, the server obtains information regarding the selection of a charging method entered by the user of the charging device.

7. The power trading system according to claim 1, wherein the server transmits information entered by the user of the charging device, which the user of the charging device has authorized to provide to the base facility where the charging device is installed, to a customer terminal owned by the base facility.

8. The power trading system according to claim 1, wherein the server calculates the settlement amount based on the information of the power generation equipment owner entered into the authentication terminal.

9. The power trading system according to claim 1, wherein if a retail electricity provider of the power grid or a base facility where the charging device is installed requests a change to the time of electricity sales entered by the electric vehicle user, the server notifies the electric vehicle user of that fact.

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