Control system and control method

Abstract

The present invention provides a control system and control method that can appropriately control power demand using multiple resources controlled by different control devices. [Solution] The control system controls the amount of electricity demand, which indicates the amount of electricity supplied to the supply target from an external power source. The supply target includes a first resource and a second resource, which are configured to adjust the amount of electricity demand. The control system comprises a first control device that controls the first resource and a second control device that controls the second resource. The first control device controls the first resource independently of the second control device. When a first start condition is met, one of the first resource and the second resource starts a first adjustment operation (S15) to suppress the increase in electricity demand. When a second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition, the other of the first resource and the second resource starts a second adjustment operation (S27) to suppress the increase in electricity demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control system and a control method for controlling power demand.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-054667 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique in which a server uses a battery in a battery station to adjust the power supply and demand in a power grid. Specifically, the battery station holds a replacement battery that can be replaced with an in-vehicle battery. Then, the replacement battery performs power feeding to the power grid (external power feeding) and charging with power from the power grid (external charging).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the power supply and demand adjustment is performed only by the battery station. On the other hand, it is also conceivable to perform the power supply and demand adjustment by further using other resources in addition to the battery station. For example, it is conceivable to introduce a battery station into a facility equipped with air conditioning equipment (e.g., an office) and perform power supply and demand adjustment using the battery station and the air conditioning equipment. However, in such a facility, it is not always easy to cooperate a control device that controls existing equipment (e.g., air conditioning equipment) with a control device that controls the added battery station. In many of this type of control device, the control logic is black-boxed and the control logic cannot be seen from the outside. Therefore, in the power supply and demand adjustment using a plurality of resources, the controls of both sides may interfere with each other, and the use of resources may be restricted more than necessary.

[0005] This disclosure is made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a control system and control method that can appropriately control power demand using multiple resources controlled by different control devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the first aspect of this disclosure, the following control system is provided:

[0007] The control system is configured to control the power demand, which indicates the amount of electricity supplied to the target from an external power source. The target includes a first resource and a second resource, both configured to adjust the power demand. The control system comprises a first control device for controlling the first resource and a second control device for controlling the second resource. The first control device is configured to control the first resource independently of the second control device. When a first start condition is met, one of the first or second resource starts a first adjustment operation to suppress an increase in power demand. When a second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition, the other of the first or second resource starts a second adjustment operation to suppress an increase in power demand.

[0008] In the control system described above, as long as the first start condition is met and the second start condition is not met, only the first adjustment operation is executed. Then, when the second start condition is met in addition to the first start condition, the second adjustment operation is executed. With this control, the amount of electricity demand is appropriately controlled by each resource even without the first and second control devices coordinating. The control system basically suppresses the increase in electricity demand through the first adjustment operation and can execute the second adjustment operation as needed. This prevents the use of resources from being restricted more than necessary. The control system can appropriately control the amount of electricity demand using multiple resources (first resource and second resource) controlled by different control devices.

[0009] The external power source may be a power grid (e.g., a microgrid, or a large-scale power grid developed as infrastructure) or a high-capacity ESS (Energy Storage System). The external power source may supply AC power or DC power. The supply target may be a facility such as a business office, a residence such as an apartment building, or a place that provides services through resources (e.g., a parking lot with power supply equipment and / or battery stations). Each resource in the supply target provides adjustment capacity to the supply target. Adjustment capacity means the overall ability to perform power adjustment (frequency control, supply and demand balance adjustment, etc.), and includes reserve capacity.

[0010] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the following control method is provided.

[0011] The control method is a method for controlling the amount of electricity demand, which indicates the amount of electricity supplied to the target from an external power source. The target includes a first resource and a second resource configured to adjust the amount of electricity demand. The control method includes, when a first start condition is met, one of the first resource and the second resource starting a first adjustment operation to suppress an increase in the amount of electricity demand, and when a second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition, the other of the first resource and the second resource starting a second adjustment operation to suppress an increase in the amount of electricity demand.

[0012] According to the control method described above, similar to the control system mentioned earlier, it becomes possible to appropriately control the amount of electricity demand using multiple resources controlled by different control devices. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to this disclosure, it becomes possible to provide a control system and control method that can appropriately control power demand using multiple resources controlled by different control devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of a control system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a diagram for explaining the battery station shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart showing a control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of each resource in the facility shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing a method for modifying a first formula used in the process shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing a first modification example of the process shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing a second modification example of the process shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the details of the power control shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing a modification example of the first threshold value and the second threshold value shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing a first modification example of the configuration of the facility shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing a second modification example of the configuration of the facility shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart showing a third modification example of the process shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart showing a fourth modification example of the process shown in FIG. 3.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the control system according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the control system according to this embodiment is installed in Facility 1. Facility 1 includes Building 10. Building 10 includes a distribution board 11, an EMS (Energy Management System) controller 12, air conditioning equipment 210, and a power load 230. The air conditioning equipment 210 is configured to perform air conditioning (for example, adjustment of at least one of air temperature, humidity, cleanliness, and air flow) in Building 10. The power load 230 includes one or more electrical devices used in Building 10. The power load 230 may include at least one of a lighting device, an elevator, a heater, a refrigerator, a communication device, a display, and an information processing device.

[0017] Facility 1 further includes a battery station 100 installed outdoors and an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) 220. The EMS controller 12 is a computer communicably connected to each of the air conditioning equipment 210, the EVSE 220, and the power load 230. The EMS controller 12 includes a processor and a storage device. The battery station 100 includes a management unit 110 and a battery storage unit 120. The management unit ********** 110 includes a control device 111 that controls various devices of the battery station 100. The control device 111 is a computer installed in the battery station 100. Details of the configuration of the battery station 100 will be described later (see FIG. 2). Facility 1 is a business establishment such as a vehicle dealership (dealer). However, it is not limited to this. Facility 1 may be other commercial facilities (department stores, roadside rest facilities, factories, etc.), public facilities, or residences. In this embodiment, the control device 111 and the EMS controller 12 correspond to examples of the "first control device" and the "second control device" according to the present disclosure, respectively.

[0018] The power grid PG supplies power to each of several supply targets, including facility 1. Facility 1 receives power supplied from the power grid PG at the receiving point R1. The receiving point R1 is electrically connected to the power grid PG. The power grid PG is a power network constructed by transmission and distribution equipment. The power grid PG may also include power generation equipment and substation equipment. Facility 1 and the power grid PG correspond to examples of "supply targets" and "external power sources" as described in this disclosure, respectively.

[0019] The administrator of Facility 1 receives electricity from an energy service provider (ESP), such as a power company. In this embodiment, the administrator of Facility 1 corresponds to a customer contracted with the ESP. Server 500 functions as a terminal for the ESP. Terminal UT functions as a terminal for the administrator of Facility 1. In this embodiment, a smartphone equipped with a touch panel display is used as Terminal UT. Application software for power management of Facility 1 is installed on Terminal UT. Terminal UT is configured to communicate with the EMS controller 12 and the battery station 100 (control device 111). Note that Terminal UT is not limited to a smartphone, but may be a tablet terminal, a wearable device, or a stationary computer.

[0020] Power from the power grid (PG) is supplied according to demand. Therefore, the amount of electricity supplied from the power grid to a receiving point (supplied electricity) matches the amount of electricity consumed at that receiving point. Server 500 measures the amount of electricity supplied from the power grid to each of the multiple receiving points (including receiving point R1) and determines the electricity charge for each receiving point (each customer). An electricity meter is installed at each receiving point. For example, an electricity meter M1 (e.g., a smart meter) is installed at receiving point R1 of facility 1. The amount of electricity supplied from the power grid to facility 1 is measured sequentially by the electricity meter M1. The electricity meter M1 sequentially transmits the measured supplied electricity amount to Server 500.

[0021] The ESP acquires a demand value for each receiving point and determines the electricity rate based on the demand value. In this embodiment, the power grid PG supplies AC power classified as "high voltage (voltage: over 600V and up to 7000V)" or "extra-high voltage (voltage: over 7000V)" to receiving point R1 (facility 1). Receiving point R1 includes receiving equipment corresponding to the supplied power (high voltage or extra-high voltage). The receiving equipment may include a switchgear, transformer, and protective relay on the high-voltage side (primary side). The demand value for receiving point R1 corresponds to the cumulative amount of electricity supplied from the power grid PG to receiving point R1 (facility 1) during a unit period (i.e., the amount of electricity supplied per unit period). Such unit periods are generally referred to as "frames". The length of a unit period is determined, for example, by rules concerning electricity trading or by a contract between the ESP and the consumer. In this embodiment, the length of a unit period is 30 minutes. Server 500 may, for example, acquire demand values ​​at the power receiving point R1 every 30 minutes and calculate the electricity charge based on the highest demand value (hereinafter referred to as the "maximum demand value") within a predetermined period (for example, the most recent 12 months). Server 500 may charge a higher electricity charge for a higher maximum demand value. Note that the length of the above unit period is not limited to 30 minutes and can be changed as appropriate.

[0022] Server 500 bills the customer for the electricity charges calculated as described above. For example, Server 500 sends a notification regarding the electricity charge to Terminal UT. Electronic settlement of the electricity charges may be performed between Terminal UT and Server 500 in response to user operations on Terminal UT.

[0023] Hereinafter, the power supplied from the power grid PG to the power receiving point R1 (facility 1) may be referred to as "external power." The power receiving point R1 is connected to the distribution board 11 via the wire PL1. External power is input from the power grid PG to the distribution board 11 through the power receiving point R1 and the wire PL1. Power meters M2 and M3 are installed on the wire PL1. Each of the power meters M2 and M3 detects the amount of energy supplied from the power grid PG to the power receiving point R1 (facility 1) (supplied energy). Power meter M2 is a power meter that corresponds to the EMS controller 12 and outputs a signal that can be recognized by the EMS controller 12. Power meter M2 sequentially outputs a signal to the EMS controller 12 indicating the detected value of the supplied energy. Power meter M3 is a power meter that corresponds to the battery station 100 and outputs a signal that can be recognized by the control device 111 of the battery station 100. The power meter M3 sequentially outputs a signal indicating the detected amount of power supplied to the battery station 100 (control device 111).

[0024] The distribution board 11 distributes the input external power to multiple circuits (secondary circuits) within the facility 1. The secondary circuits may be protected by fuses or breakers. The distribution board 11 may also include circuits for power conditioning processes (e.g., power conversion and input / output adjustment). In this embodiment, the distribution board 11 distributes the input external power to the battery station 100, the air conditioning equipment 210, the EVSE 220, and the power load 230. The battery station 100, the air conditioning equipment 210, the EVSE 220, and the power load 230 are connected to the distribution board 11 via wires PL2, PL31, PL32, and PL33, respectively. Wire PL33 may be connected to one or more outlets installed within the building 10. Power may be supplied from the distribution board 11 to the power load 230 via the outlets by connecting the power cable of the power load 230 to the outlets. The EMS controller 12 may be powered by electricity from the distribution board 11, or it may be powered by another power source (for example, a drive battery).

[0025] Vehicle 20 is equipped with a battery B1 and is configured to be rechargeable using, for example, an EVSE 220. The battery B1 may be mounted on vehicle 20 in the form of a battery pack. Vehicle 20 is configured to be able to run using the power output from battery B1. Vehicle 20 may be equipped with a motor that rotates the drive wheels of vehicle 20 using the output power of battery B1. Vehicle 20 is equipped with an ECU (Electronic Control Unit). Vehicle 20 may be an electric vehicle without an internal combustion engine (BEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with an internal combustion engine, or another electric vehicle (xEV).

[0026] The EVSE220 is configured to be electrically connected to the vehicle 20, for example, via a charging cable. In the example shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 20 and the EVSE220 are electrically connected by the charging cable's connector being plugged into the vehicle 20's inlet. The charging cable's connector is configured to be detachably attached to the vehicle 20's inlet. The EVSE220 incorporates a computer configured to communicate with the EMS controller 12. The EVSE220 is controlled by the EMS controller 12. The EVSE220 is configured to charge the battery B1 of the vehicle 20, which is electrically connected to the EVSE220, using external power. The EVSE220 performs charging of the battery B1 in response to a request from the vehicle 20's user. The EVSE220 is also configured to request discharge from the vehicle 20 based on instructions from the EMS controller 12. The power discharged from the battery B1 of the vehicle 20, which is electrically connected to the EVSE220, is input to the distribution board 11 via the EVSE220. The EVSE220 is configured to change the destination of the power output (vehicle 20 or distribution board 11) and the magnitude of the output power based on instructions from the EMS controller 12. The distribution board 11 outputs the power input from the EVSE220 to at least one of the power lines PL31 and PL33.

[0027] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the battery station 100. Referring to Figure 2, the battery station 100 is configured to hold and provide a replacement battery that is interchangeable with the onboard battery. The battery station 100 may provide a replacement battery upon request from the vehicle 20 (vehicle user). In this embodiment, the battery station 100 is configured to remove battery B1 from the vehicle 20 and install another battery B2 in the vehicle 20. Battery B2 installed in the vehicle 20 functions in the vehicle 20 in the same way as battery B1 (Figure 1). Batteries B1 and B2 correspond to examples of the "onboard battery" and "replacement battery" as described herein.

[0028] The battery station 100 according to this embodiment further comprises a supply device 123, a replacement device 124, a recovery device 125, an inspection device 126, and a filling device 127, in addition to the management unit 110 and the battery storage unit 120. The battery storage unit 120 includes a storage unit 121 (e.g., a hangar) and a charger 122. The storage unit 121 stores a plurality of batteries B2 for supply to a vehicle. The supply device 123, the recovery device 125, and the filling device 127 each transport batteries. The transport method is arbitrary and may be a conveyor system or a system using a transport robot.

[0029] The management unit 110 further includes a communication device 112 and a display device 113, in addition to the control device 111. The control device 111 comprises a processor 111a and a storage device 111b. The storage device 111b stores information (such as the amount of charge stored) for each battery B2 stored in the battery storage unit 120, distinguishing them by battery identification information (battery ID). The control device 111 communicates with an external device (for example, the terminal UT shown in Figure 1) through the communication device 112. The display device 113 is, for example, a touch panel display. The display device 113 displays information according to instructions from the control device 111. The display device 113 also outputs information input by the user to the control device 111.

[0030] The control device 111 performs battery replacement control in response to a request from the user of the vehicle 20. Specifically, the supply device 123 and the replacement device 124 replace the vehicle 20's battery B1 with battery B2 in accordance with commands from the control device 111, for example, in the following procedure: The replacement device 124 removes battery B1 (the used battery) from the vehicle 20. Subsequently, the supply device 123 transports (supplies) battery B2 from the housing 121 to the replacement device 124. Subsequently, the replacement device 124 installs the supplied battery B2 into the vehicle 20. This completes the battery replacement of the vehicle 20.

[0031] Furthermore, the control device 111 performs control for reusing batteries acquired from the vehicle. Specifically, the recovery device 125, inspection device 126, and filling device 127 operate according to commands from the control device 111, for example, as follows: Battery B1 removed from the vehicle 20 is recovered by the recovery device 125. The inspection device 126 then inspects the recovered battery B1. The filling device 127 fills the battery B1 that passes the inspection into the housing 121. The battery B1 filled into the housing 121 is treated as battery B2. In this way, the batteries recovered from the vehicle are reused. The charger 122 charges the battery B2 filled into the housing 121 until its stored charge is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. This makes it possible to provide the vehicle with a battery B2 having a stored charge equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Note that battery B1 that fails the inspection may be reused for purposes other than as an on-board battery, or it may be discarded.

[0032] The method for replacing the vehicle battery is not limited to the method described above. For example, a transport device, movable block, or transport robot (not shown) may move the vehicle to adjust its position. A replacement battery provided by a battery station may be installed in the vehicle by the user. The user may also replace the battery manually instead of using the replacement device 124.

[0033] In this embodiment, the battery station 100 and its accessories (electric wires PL2, energy meter M3, etc.) shown in Figure 1 correspond to equipment that was added to facility 1 later. The other equipment (including the air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230) correspond to existing equipment (i.e., equipment that facility 1 had before the battery station 100 was added). Each of the air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230 is controlled by the EMS controller 12. On the other hand, the battery station 100 is controlled by the control device 111 and operates independently. The control logic of the control device 111 is black-boxed and not visible from the outside. Such a battery station 100 has the advantage of being able to operate independently as designed without coordinating with other equipment, and is less prone to malfunctions due to the influence of other equipment. On the other hand, in such a facility 1, it is not always easy to coordinate the control device (EMS controller 12) that controls the existing equipment with the control device 111 that controls the added battery station 100. Therefore, when Facility 1 uses existing equipment and the added battery station 100 to adjust the power supply and demand of the power grid PG, the controls of both may interfere with each other, potentially restricting the use of resources (such as air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, power load 230, and battery station 100) more than necessary.

[0034] Therefore, the facility 1 (supplied object) according to this embodiment is able to appropriately control the amount of electricity demand using multiple resources controlled by different control devices by executing the control method described below. Specifically, the control device 111 of the battery station 100 shown in Figure 2 and the EMS controller 12 shown in Figure 1 execute the processing flows F1 and F2 shown in Figure 3, respectively. Figure 3 is a flowchart of the control method according to this embodiment. In the flowchart, "S" means step.

[0035] When the target period begins, the control device 111 starts processing flow F1 and the EMS controller 12 starts processing flow F2. The target period is set to the aforementioned unit period (a period of 30 minutes). Specifically, processing flows F1 and F2 are executed for a certain unit period (for example, 0:00 to 0:30), and when that target period ends, the next unit period (for example, 0:30 to 1:00) is set as the new target period, and processing flows F1 and F2 are executed for the new target period. Similarly, a new target period is set each time a target period ends. Therefore, processing flows F1 and F2 are basically executed continuously. The target period is changed every 30 minutes. As a result, processing flows F1 and F2 are executed for each unit period, and the power demand (demand value) for each unit period is adjusted. Processing flows F1 and F2 are described below.

[0036] In the processing flow F1 shown in Figure 3, the control device 111 acquires the detected value of the supplied power amount from the power meter M3 in S11 and calculates the power demand amount, which indicates the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1. In this embodiment, the cumulative value of the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1 (power receiving point R1) during the target period is calculated as the power demand amount. Specifically, the control device 111 calculates the power demand amount by integrating the supplied power amount (amount of power consumed at facility 1) detected by the power meter M3 during the target period.

[0037] Next, in S12, the control device 111 determines whether the peak cut control (S15), described later, has already been executed. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, the peak cut control has not yet been executed, so in S12 it is determined to be NO, and the process proceeds to S13.

[0038] In S13, the control device 111 acquires a first threshold value (hereinafter referred to as "Th1"). In this embodiment, the control device 111 determines Th1 based on the first equation. As will be described in detail later, the first equation shows that the elapsed time in the target period and Th1 are proportional by the first proportionality constant (see Figure 4). In the following S14, the control device 111 determines whether the power demand calculated in S11 exceeds Th1. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, the power demand is small, so S14 determines NO and the process proceeds to S16. In S16, the control device 111 determines whether the target period has elapsed. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, the end time of the target period has not yet arrived, so S16 determines NO and the process returns to S11.

[0039] If the power demand calculated in S11 exceeds Th1 during the target period (YES in S14), the control device 111 performs peak cut control in S15. The peak cut control in S15 is a control that causes the battery station 100 to perform a peak cut operation (first adjustment operation) to suppress the increase in power demand. However, in the control device 111, the logic of the peak cut control (e.g., the algorithm) is black-boxed and not visible from the outside.

[0040] When the process in S15 is executed, the process proceeds to S16. Within the target period, if the result in S16 is NO, the process returns to S11. However, after peak cut control is started in S15, if the result in S12 is YES, the process proceeds to S15. As a result, during the target period, processes S13 and S14 are not executed, while peak cut control (S15) is executed continuously. Within the target period, after the above peak cut control is started, processes S11, S12, S15, and S16 are repeatedly executed.

[0041] When the end time of the target period arrives, S16 determines it to be YES, and processing flow F1 terminates. As a result, the first adjustment operation based on the peak cut control described above is no longer performed. If the end time of the target period arrives without the power demand exceeding Th1, processing flow F1 terminates without the peak cut control (S15) being performed.

[0042] In the processing flow F2 shown in Figure 3, the EMS controller 12 obtains the detected value of the supplied power amount from the power meter M2 in S21 and calculates the aforementioned power demand amount. Specifically, the control device 111 calculates the power demand amount by accumulating the supplied power amount (power consumption at facility 1) detected by the power meter M2 during the target period. Subsequently, in S22, the EMS controller 12 determines whether the peak cut control (S27) described later has already been executed. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, peak cut control has not yet been executed, so it is determined to be NO in S22 and the process proceeds to S23.

[0043] In S23, the EMS controller 12 obtains the second threshold (hereinafter referred to as "Th2"). As will be explained in detail later, Th2 is a larger value than Th1 (S13) (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, the EMS controller 12 determines Th2 based on the second equation. The second equation shows that the elapsed time in the target period and Th2 are proportional by the second proportionality constant. In the subsequent S24, the EMS controller 12 determines whether the power demand calculated in S21 exceeds Th2. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, the power demand is small, so S24 determines NO and the process proceeds to S28. In S28, the EMS controller 12 determines whether the target period has elapsed. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, the end time of the target period has not yet arrived, so S28 determines NO and the process returns to S21.

[0044] If, within the target period, the power demand calculated in S21 exceeds Th2 (YES in S24), then in S25, the EMS controller 12 acquires the status of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220. In the following S26, the EMS controller 12 selects at least one of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 as the control target, based on the status of each of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220. In the following S27, the EMS controller 12 sends a control command to the control target selected in S26, instructing it to perform a peak-cut operation (second adjustment operation) to suppress the increase in power demand. The resource that receives the control command performs the second adjustment operation.

[0045] When the process in S27 is executed, the process proceeds to S28. Within the target period, if the result in S28 is NO, the process returns to S21. However, after peak cut control is started in S27, the result in S22 is YES, and the process proceeds to S25. As a result, during the target period, processes S23 and S24 are not executed, while peak cut control (S27) is executed continuously. Within the target period, after the above peak cut control is started, processes S21, S22, S25 to S28 are repeatedly executed.

[0046] When the end time of the target period arrives, S28 determines it to be YES, and processing flow F2 terminates. As a result, the second adjustment operation based on the peak cut control described above will not be executed. If the end time of the target period arrives without the power demand exceeding Th2, processing flow F2 will terminate without the peak cut control (S27) being executed.

[0047] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of each resource in Facility 1. In Figure 4, line L1 shows an example of the change in power demand when the control (processing flows F1, F2) shown in Figure 3 is executed during the target period. Line L2 shows an example of the change in Th2 based on the second equation. Line L3 shows an example of the change in Th1 based on the first equation. "t" in the time chart represents timing.

[0048] When the elapsed time during the target period is represented by "ET", the first proportionality constant by "α", and the second proportionality constant by "β", the first equation is expressed as "Th1 = α × ET" and the second equation as "Th2 = β × ET". As shown by lines L2 and L3, β is greater than α. In the example shown in Figure 4, the length of the target period is 30 minutes. Therefore, the maximum value of Th2 (hereinafter referred to as "P2") is expressed as "P2 = β × 30 minutes", and the maximum value of Th1 (hereinafter referred to as "P3") is expressed as "P3 = α × 30 minutes". P2 is greater than P3. α and β are set so that the amount of electricity demand during the target period does not exceed the demand limit P1. α is set, for example, by the user. β is set, for example, by the EMS controller 12. The demand limit P1 may be set by the user. Alternatively, the EMS controller 12 may set the demand limit P1 based on past electricity demand data.

[0049] In the example shown in Figure 4, the power demand (line L1) is less than or equal to Th1 (line L3) during the period from the start time of the target period to t1. In the processing flows F1 and F2 shown in Figure 3, the power demand is calculated in S11 and S21, respectively. The control device 111 obtains the latest Th1 based on the first equation in S13, and compares the power demand with Th1 in S14.

[0050] At t1, the power demand (line L1) exceeds Th1 (line L3). As a result, the first adjustment operation is initiated at S15 in Figure 3. The first adjustment operation suppresses the increase in power demand. During the period from t1 to t2, the power demand (line L1) is greater than Th1 (line L3) and less than or equal to Th2 (line L2). Therefore, the first adjustment operation (S15 in Figure 3) is executed, but the second adjustment operation (S27 in Figure 3) is not executed. Subsequently, at t2, the power demand (line L1) exceeds Th2 (line L2). As a result, the second adjustment operation is initiated at S27 in Figure 3, and both the first and second adjustment operations are executed. Therefore, the increase in power demand is suppressed not only by the first adjustment operation but also by the second adjustment operation.

[0051] As described above, the control method according to this embodiment includes the processes shown in Figure 3. In the control system according to this embodiment, each process is executed by one or more processors executing programs stored in one or more memories. However, these processes may be executed by hardware (electronic circuits) alone.

[0052] The control system according to this embodiment is configured to control the amount of electricity demand. The amount of electricity demand refers to the amount of electricity supplied from the power grid PG (external power source) to facility 1 (the target of supply). Facility 1 includes a battery station 100. Facility 1 includes air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230, and an EMS controller 12 that controls them. Each of the battery station 100, air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230 is configured to adjust the amount of electricity demand. The control device 111 of the battery station 100 is configured to control the battery station 100 (specifically, the supply device 123, exchange device 124, and recovery device 125 shown in Figure 2) independently of the EMS controller 12. When the first start condition is met, the battery station 100 starts a first adjustment operation (peak cut operation) to suppress the increase in the amount of electricity demand. The first start condition is met when the amount of electricity demand exceeds Th1 (first threshold) (YES in S14 of Figure 3). If the second initiation condition is also met in addition to the first initiation condition, at least one of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 will start a second adjustment operation (peak cut operation) to suppress the increase in power demand. The second initiation condition is met when the power demand exceeds Th2 (second threshold) (YES in S24 of Figure 3). Since Th2 is greater than Th1, if the second initiation condition is met, the first initiation condition is also met.

[0053] In the control system according to this embodiment, the control device 111 and the EMS controller 12 execute control separately (processing flows F1, F2). According to processing flows F1, F2, the amount of power demand is appropriately controlled by each resource even without the control device 111 and the EMS controller 12 coordinating, that is, without control commands being exchanged between them.

[0054] According to the above configuration, the control system can basically suppress the increase in power demand through a first adjustment operation and execute a second adjustment operation as needed. For example, as shown by the dashed line L1a in Figure 4, if the increase in power demand is sufficiently suppressed by the first adjustment operation (S15 in Figure 3) and the power demand does not exceed Th2 during the target period, the second adjustment operation (S27 in Figure 3) will not be executed. This prevents the use of resources from being restricted more than necessary. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, the first and second adjustment operations are started sequentially based on the increase in power demand. This makes it possible to accurately suppress excessive increases in power demand even in a configuration where the control logic of at least one of the first and second control devices is black-boxed.

[0055] In this embodiment, when the first start condition is met, the first resource (battery station 100) starts a first adjustment operation, and the first adjustment operation continues until the first end condition is met, as controlled by the first control device (control device 111). Furthermore, when the first and second start conditions are met, the second resource (air conditioning equipment 210 and / or EVSE 220) starts a second adjustment operation, and the second adjustment operation continues until the second end condition is met, as controlled by the second control device (EMS controller 12). The first start condition is met when the power demand exceeds Th1 (first threshold) (see S14 in Figure 3). The first end condition is met when the target period has elapsed (see S16 in Figure 3). The second start condition is met when the power demand exceeds Th2 (second threshold), which is greater than Th1 (see S24 in Figure 3). The second termination condition is met when the target period has elapsed (see S28 in Figure 3).

[0056] According to the above configuration, it becomes possible to accurately suppress excessive increases in power demand during the target period. Since the content of the peak cut control by the first control device (control logic) is a black box, the first termination condition may be met not only when the target period has elapsed, but also when other requirements are met. There is a possibility that the peak cut control may be unexpectedly stopped due to some factor (see dashed line in Figure 3). When the first adjustment operation ends due to the termination of peak cut control, and the increase in power demand is no longer sufficiently suppressed, the power demand rises and exceeds Th2, as shown by the dashed line L1b in Figure 4. As a result, the second adjustment operation is executed instead of the first adjustment operation, and the increase in power demand is suppressed. Therefore, the power demand is prevented from exceeding the demand upper limit P1 during the target period.

[0057] In peak cut control by the control device 111 (S15 in Figure 3), the control device 111 controls the battery station 100 so that at least one of the following is performed: limiting the power consumption of the battery station 100 (hereinafter referred to as "operation X1") and the battery station 100 discharging the power stored in the replacement battery to the building 10 (distribution board 11) (hereinafter referred to as "operation X2"). According to operations X1 and X2, it becomes possible to accurately suppress the increase in power demand. As the power consumption of the battery station 100 decreases, the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1 also decreases. As the power supplied from the battery station 100 is used by facility 1, the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1 decreases. The battery station 100 corresponds to an example of the "first resource" in this disclosure. Each of operations X1 and X2 corresponds to an example of the "first adjustment operation" in this disclosure.

[0058] In operation X1, battery replacement by the battery station 100 may be prohibited, or the number of battery replacements per unit time may be limited to a predetermined number or less. The control device 111 may increase the discharge power in operation X2 as the power demand increases. Although only one battery station is shown in Figure 1, facility 1 may have multiple battery stations, each operating independently. In the peak cut control in S15 of Figure 3, each of these battery stations may suppress the increase in power demand by performing at least one of operations X1 or X2.

[0059] In peak cut control by the EMS controller 12 (S27 in Figure 3), the EMS controller 12 controls the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 so that at least one of the following is performed: limiting the power consumption of the air conditioning equipment 210 (hereinafter referred to as "operation Y1"), limiting the power consumption of the EVSE 220 (hereinafter referred to as "operation Y2"), and discharging the power stored in the battery of the vehicle connected to the EVSE 220 to the building 10 (distribution board 11) (hereinafter referred to as "operation Y3"). According to operations Y1 to Y3, it becomes possible to accurately suppress the increase in power demand. As the power consumption of each resource in facility 1 decreases, the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1 also decreases. As the power supplied from EVSE 220 is used in facility 1, the amount of power supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1 decreases. Each of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 corresponds to an example of the "second resource" in this disclosure. Each of operations Y1, Y2, and Y3 corresponds to an example of the "second adjustment operation" relating to this disclosure.

[0060] In operation Y1, air conditioning by the air conditioning unit 210 may be prohibited. Alternatively, in operation Y1, the upper and lower limits of the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 210 may be brought closer to a reference temperature (e.g., the current outside temperature). In operation Y2, charging by the EVSE 220 may be prohibited, or the output power of the EVSE 220 may be limited. The EMS controller 12 may lower the upper limit of the output power of the EVSE 220 in operation Y2 as the power demand increases. The EMS controller 12 may increase the discharge power in operation Y3 as the power demand increases. In S26 of Figure 3, the EMS controller 12 may determine the control target based on weather forecast information (e.g., predicted outside temperature and weather) and the status of each resource (e.g., the usage and reservation status of the air conditioning unit 210 and the EVSE 220, respectively). Figure 1 shows one air conditioning unit and one power supply unit, but facility 1 may have multiple air conditioning units and multiple power supply units controlled by the EMS controller 12. Then, in S26 of Figure 3, at least one of these may be selected as the control target. In the peak cut control in S27 of Figure 3, the increase in power demand may be suppressed by executing at least one of operations Y1, Y2, and Y3 depending on the selected control target.

[0061] In this embodiment, the control device 111 controls the battery station 100 independently of the EMS controller 12. The EMS controller 12 controls the air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230 independently of the control device 111. No control signals are exchanged between the control device 111 and the EMS controller 12. However, the terminal UT (user terminal) is configured to communicate with the EMS controller 12 and the control device 111, respectively, through installed application software. The control device 111 may be configured to change the set first equation. Figure 5 illustrates an example in which the first proportionality constant (α) of the first equation is changed according to a request from the user.

[0062] Referring to Figure 5, the terminal UT receives a request from the user to change the first equation. When the terminal UT receives a request from the user to change the first equation, it transmits the request to the EMS controller 12 and the control device 111, respectively. The control device 111 changes the first proportionality constant according to the user's request. The EMS controller 12 changes the second proportionality constant in accordance with the change in the first proportionality constant. In this case, the EMS controller 12 changes the second proportionality constant so that it becomes larger than the first proportionality constant. This configuration makes it easier to set appropriate first and second thresholds. The first proportionality constant (α) and the second proportionality constant (β) correspond to the slopes of the first and second equations, respectively. In Figure 5, lines L3 and L2 show the first and second equations when the first and second proportionality constants are at their standard values, respectively. The standard values ​​of each proportionality constant may be default values.

[0063] For example, a request to modify the first equation may request to increase the first proportionality constant relative to the standard value (line L3). The control device 111 increases the first proportionality constant as shown by line L3a in Figure 5 in response to such a request. The EMS controller 12 also increases the second proportionality constant as shown by line L2a in Figure 5 in response to such a request. Alternatively, a request to modify the first equation may request to decrease the first proportionality constant relative to the standard value (line L3). The control device 111 decreases the first proportionality constant as shown by line L3b in Figure 5 in response to such a request. The EMS controller 12 also decreases the second proportionality constant as shown by line L2b in Figure 5 in response to such a request. Note that a request to modify the first equation may also request to change the first proportionality constant to a value specified by the user.

[0064] As described above, the control device 111 changes the first proportionality constant according to the user's request. On the other hand, the control device 111 does not change the first equation unless requested by the user. In other words, the control device 111 is configured to change Th1 in response to user input, but not in response to input from the EMS controller 12. With this configuration, the user can set an appropriate Th1 in the control device 111 without the EMS controller 12. Such a control device 111 can conceal its control logic (black box) while easily suppressing the increase in power demand through the first adjustment operation.

[0065] In the above embodiment, peak shaving operation by the first resource (battery station 100) is started when the first start condition is met, and peak shaving operation by the second resource (air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220) is started when both the first and second start conditions are met. In other words, the first resource preferentially suppresses the increase in power demand. However, this is not limited to this, and the second resource may start peak shaving operation (adjustment operation) before the first resource. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a first modified example of the process shown in Figure 3.

[0066] Referring to Figure 6, in this modified example, when the start time of the target period arrives, the control device 111 starts processing flow F1A and the EMS controller 12 starts processing flow F2A. Processing flow F1A is the same as processing flow F1 (Figure 3), except that S13A and S14A are used instead of S13 and S14. Processing flow F2A is the same as processing flow F2 (Figure 3), except that S23A and S24A are used instead of S23 and S24.

[0067] In processing flow F2A, the EMS controller 12 acquires Th1 in S23A and determines in S24A whether the power demand exceeds Th1. If the power demand calculated in S21 exceeds Th1 (YES in S24A), the EMS controller 12 executes the processes in S25-S27. As a result, the first adjustment operation based on peak cut control starts in S27. On the other hand, in processing flow F1A, the control device 111 acquires Th2 in S13A and determines in S14A whether the power demand exceeds Th2. If the power demand calculated in S11 exceeds Th2 (YES in S14A), the control device 111 starts the second adjustment operation based on peak cut control in S15. Th1 and Th2 are set in the manner shown in Figures 4 and 5. That is, Th2 is greater than Th1.

[0068] In the above modified example, if the first start condition is met (YES in S24A), at least one of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 starts peak-cutting operation (first adjustment operation) in S27. The first adjustment operation continues until the first end condition is met. When the end time of the target period arrives (YES in S28), the first end condition is met. If the second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition (YES in S14A), the battery station 100 starts peak-cutting operation (second adjustment operation) in S15. The second adjustment operation continues until the second end condition is met. When the end time of the target period arrives (YES in S16), the second end condition is met. The control system according to the above modified example basically suppresses the increase in power demand by the second resource and, if necessary, suppresses the increase in power demand by the first resource.

[0069] Depending on the battery station, not only the details of the peak cut control (control logic) but also the conditions for initiating the peak cut control may be black-boxed. The EMS controller 12 may be configured to identify a first initiation condition by learning the operation of the battery station 100 and to set a second initiation condition based on the identified first initiation condition. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a second modified example of the process shown in Figure 3.

[0070] Referring to Figure 7, in this modified example, when the start time of the target period arrives, the control device 111 starts processing flow F1 (the same as processing flow F1 shown in Figure 3), and the EMS controller 12 starts processing flow F2B. In processing flow F2B, the EMS controller 12 obtains the detected value of the supplied power amount from the power meter M2 in S21 and calculates the power demand amount. In the following S31, the EMS controller 12 determines whether or not the learning of the operation of the battery station 100 (S32, S33 described later) has been completed. In the initial processing routine immediately after the start of the target period, learning is not yet complete, so NO is determined in S31, and processing proceeds to S32. In S32, the EMS controller 12 determines, for example, based on the detected value of the power meter M2, whether or not the battery station 100 has started peak cut control (first adjustment operation). If NO is determined in S32, processing returns to S21. When peak cut control is initiated by the battery station 100 (YES in S32), the EMS controller 12 records various data related to the first start condition (e.g., equation 1) in S33. The data recorded here is the data at the time when peak cut control (first adjustment operation) by the battery station 100 is initiated, and includes, for example, the time elapsed since the start of the target period and the amount of power demand. Once the processing in S33 is completed, the process proceeds to S28.

[0071] In S28, the EMS controller 12 determines whether the target period has elapsed. If it is within the target period, S28 determines NO, and the process returns to S21. Until sufficient data (e.g., a predetermined number of data) is acquired in S33 to identify the first start condition (e.g., the first equation), S31 determines NO, and the learning-related processes (S32, S33) are repeatedly executed. Once sufficient data is acquired in S33, S31 determines YES, and the process proceeds to S34.

[0072] In S34, the EMS controller 12 determines whether the second start condition is not set. If the second start condition is not set (YES in S34), the process proceeds to S35. In S35, the EMS controller 12 uses the data acquired in S33 to identify the first start condition set in the battery station 100. The EMS controller 12 may also identify α (first proportionality constant) in the first equation based on the data at the time the first adjustment operation was started (for example, elapsed time in the target period and power demand). Subsequently, in S36, the EMS controller 12 sets the second start condition (for example, the second equation) based on the identified first start condition. The EMS controller 12 may also determine β (second proportionality constant) in the second equation based on α in the first equation and the demand upper limit P1 shown in Figure 4, and set the obtained second equation. β in the second equation is greater than α in the first equation. After that, the process proceeds to S20. In S20, the power control shown in Figure 8 is performed.

[0073] Figure 8 is a flowchart detailing S20. As shown in Figure 8, S20 is a processing flow that includes S22 to S27 shown in Figure 3. In S23, the EMS controller 12 obtains Th2 based on the second equation set for the EMS controller 12 in S36 of Figure 7. Similar to the processing flow F2 shown in Figure 3, if NO is determined in S24 or the processing in S27 is executed, the process proceeds to S28 in Figure 7.

[0074] In the processing flow F2B shown in Figure 7, when the second start condition is set, it is determined to be NO in S34, and the process skips S35 and S36 and proceeds to S20. S20 is executed repeatedly within the target period. Then, when the end time of the target period arrives (YES in S28), processing flow F2B terminates.

[0075] According to the control system described above, even if the first start condition is a black box in the battery station 100, an appropriate second start condition can be set in accordance with the first start condition identified by learning. If the EMS controller 12 has identified the first start condition and set the second start condition based on that first start condition during a certain target period, it does not need to perform learning to identify the first start condition and setting the second start condition in target periods after that target period. Alternatively, the EMS controller 12 may perform learning to identify the first start condition and setting the second start condition for each target period, and confirm the first start condition for each target period and set the second start condition.

[0076] It is not mandatory that Th1 (first threshold) and Th2 (second threshold) be set in the manner shown in Figures 4 and 5. The relationship between the elapsed time in the target period and each threshold can be changed as appropriate, and may be a linear function with an intercept or a quadratic function. Figure 9 shows modified examples of Th1 and Th2. Referring to Figure 9, Th2, shown by line L4, is constant in the target period. Th1, shown by line L5, is also constant in the target period. Th2 is greater than Th1 and less than the upper limit of the demand P1. Thus, Th1 and Th2 may each be fixed values.

[0077] The length of the target period can be set arbitrarily. The length of the target period may be between 5 minutes and 5 hours. The length of the target period may be around 30 minutes (for example, between 15 and 45 minutes) or around 2 hours (for example, between 1 and 3 hours). When a target period has elapsed, the control system may continue to control the amount of electricity demand by setting the end time of that target period as the start time of the next target period.

[0078] The first and second resources can be changed as appropriate. For example, only one of the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220 (for example, only the air conditioning equipment 210) may function as the second resource. Alternatively, in addition to the air conditioning equipment 210 and EVSE 220, or instead of at least one of them, the power load 230 may function as the second resource. In S26 of Figure 3, the power load 230 may be selected as the control target, and in the subsequent S27, the power load 230 may perform the second adjustment operation. In S27, the EMS controller 12 may control the power load 230 so that it limits the power consumption by the power load 230 (hereinafter referred to as "operation Y4"). In S27, at least one of operations Y1 to Y3 may be performed together with operation Y4.

[0079] The facility configuration shown in Figure 1 can be modified as needed.

[0080] Figure 10 shows a first modified example of the facility configuration shown in Figure 1. Facility 1A shown in Figure 10 basically has the same configuration as facility 1 shown in Figure 1. However, facility 1A further includes a PCS (Power Conditioning System) 240, a stationary energy storage device 241, and a power generation equipment 242. The PCS 240 is connected to the distribution board 11 via an electric wire PL 34. The EMS controller 12 is connected to the PCS 240 in a communication manner.

[0081] The power generation equipment 242 is, for example, a solar power generation system. Electricity meters M4 and M5 are installed on the power line PL41 connecting the power generation equipment 242 and the PCS 240. Each of the electricity meters M4 and M5 detects the amount of electricity generated by the power generation equipment 242 (generated energy). Electricity meter M4 sequentially outputs a signal indicating the detected value of the generated energy to the EMS controller 12. Electricity meter M5 sequentially outputs a signal indicating the detected value of the generated energy to the battery station 100 (control device 111). Note that the power generation equipment 242 may include a wind power generation system or a cogeneration system.

[0082] PCS240 is connected to the energy storage device 241 via the power line PL42. PCS240 includes various circuits for power conditioning processing (e.g., power conversion and input / output adjustment). The power generated by the power generation equipment 242 is stored in the energy storage device 241. PCS240 converts the power generated by the power generation equipment 242 into power suitable for charging the energy storage device 241, and charges the energy storage device 241 with the converted power. In addition, PCS240, in accordance with instructions from the EMS controller 12, converts at least one of the power generated by the power generation equipment 242 and the power discharged by the energy storage device 241 into a predetermined AC power, and outputs the obtained AC power to the distribution board 11.

[0083] In facility 1A, in addition to the air conditioning equipment 210, EVSE 220, and power load 230, or in place of at least one of these, the energy storage device 241 may function as a second resource. In S26 of Figure 3, the energy storage device 241 is selected as the control target, and in the subsequent S27, the energy storage device 241 may perform a second adjustment operation. In S27, the EMS controller 12 may control the energy storage device 241 through the PCS 240 so that the power stored in the energy storage device 241 is discharged to the building 10 (distribution board 11) (hereinafter referred to as "operation Y5"). In S27, at least one of operations Y1 to Y4 may be performed together with operation Y5.

[0084] In S14 and S24 in Figure 3 (or S14A and S24A in Figure 6), the value obtained by subtracting the cumulative amount of electricity generated by the power generation equipment 242 during the target period from the cumulative amount of electricity supplied from the power grid PG to facility 1A during the target period may be compared with each threshold (Th1, Th2).

[0085] Figure 11 shows a second modified configuration of the facility shown in Figure 1. Facility 1B shown in Figure 11 includes EMS controllers 12A and 12B instead of EMS controller 12 and battery station 100. EMS controller 12A is a computer communicatively connected to EVSE 220. EMS controller 12B is a computer communicatively connected to each of the air conditioning equipment 210 and power loads 230. EMS controller 12A is configured to control EVSE 220 independently of EMS controller 12B. No control signals are exchanged between EMS controller 12A and EMS controller 12B. EMS controller 12A and EVSE 220 may be equipment added to facility 1B later. The control logic of EMS controller 12A may be a black box. EMS controller 12A may be a dedicated controller for EVSE 220. In this modified configuration, EMS controller 12A and EMS controller 12B correspond to examples of the “first control unit” and “second control unit” as described herein. The EVSE220 functions as the first resource, and the air conditioning equipment 210 functions as the second resource. The EMS controller 12A may execute processing flow F1 (Figure 3), and the EMS controller 12B may execute processing flow F2 (Figure 3). The EMS controller 12A may execute processing flow F1A (Figure 6), and the EMS controller 12B may execute processing flow F2A (Figure 6). The EMS controller 12A may execute processing flow F1 (Figure 7), and the EMS controller 12B may execute processing flow F2B (Figure 7). Note that the charging method for the EVSE220 is not limited to contact charging (plug-in charging), but may also be contactless charging.

[0086] The second termination condition can be modified as appropriate. For example, the second termination condition may be met not only when the target period has elapsed, but also when other requirements are met.

[0087] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a third modified version of the process shown in Figure 3. Referring to Figure 12, in this modified version, when the start time of the target period arrives, the control device 111 starts the process flow F1 (the same as the process flow F1 shown in Figure 3), and the EMS controller 12 starts the process flow F2C. The process flow F2C is the same as the process flow F2 (Figure 3), except that S27A is added. When the process in S27 is executed in the process flow F2C, the EMS controller 12 determines in the following S27A whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the peak cut operation (second adjustment operation) by the second resource. If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the second adjustment operation (NO in S27A), the process proceeds to S28. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second adjustment operation (YES in S27A), the process flow F2C ends before the end time of the target period. As a result, the second adjustment operation is not executed. With this configuration, excessive restriction of resource usage is suppressed.

[0088] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing a fourth modified version of the process shown in Figure 3. Referring to Figure 13, in this modified version, when the start time of the target period arrives, the control device 111 starts process flow F1 (the same as process flow F1 shown in Figure 3), and the EMS controller 12 starts process flow F2D. Process flow F2D is the same as process flow F2 (Figure 3), except that S27B is added. In process flow F2D, when the process in S27 is executed, the EMS controller 12 determines in the subsequent S27B whether the discharge power amount of the second resource for the peak cut operation (second adjustment operation) (i.e., the cumulative value of the discharge power amount of the second resource during the target period) exceeds a predetermined reference value. If the discharge power amount of the second resource for the second adjustment operation does not exceed the reference value (NO in S27B), the process proceeds to S28. On the other hand, if the discharge power amount of the second resource for the second adjustment operation exceeds the reference value (YES in S27B), process flow F2D ends before the end time of the target period. As a result, the second adjustment operation is not executed. This configuration helps to prevent a shortage of usable power (storage capacity) at facility 1 during a power outage.

[0089] The processing flows shown in Figures 3, 6, 7, 8, 12, and 13 can be modified as needed. Depending on the purpose, the order of processing may be changed, unnecessary steps may be omitted, and the content of any of the processes may be changed, or steps may be added.

[0090] The above variations may be combined in any way as desired.

[0091] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] 1,1A,1B facilities, 12,12A,12B EMS controllers, 20 vehicles, 100 battery stations, 111 control devices, 210 air conditioning equipment, 220 EVSE, 230 power loads.

Claims

1. A control system for controlling the amount of electricity demand, which indicates the amount of electricity supplied to a target from an external power source, The supply target includes a first resource and a second resource configured to adjust the amount of electricity demand, The control system comprises a first control device for controlling the first resource and a second control device for controlling the second resource. The first control device is configured to control the first resource independently of the second control device. When the first start condition is met, one of the first resource and the second resource starts a first adjustment operation to suppress the increase in the amount of electricity demand. A control system wherein, if a second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition, the other of the first and second resources initiates a second adjustment operation to suppress the increase in the amount of electricity demand.

2. The first control device is configured to control the first resource such that when the first start condition is met, the first resource starts the first adjustment operation, and the first adjustment operation continues until the first end condition is met. The second control device is configured to control the second resource such that when both the first start condition and the second start condition are met, the second resource starts the second adjustment operation, and the second adjustment operation continues until the second end condition is met. The first start condition is met when the amount of electricity demand exceeds the first threshold, The control system according to claim 1, wherein the second starting condition is met when the amount of electricity demand exceeds a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold.

3. The aforementioned power demand is the cumulative value of the amount of electricity supplied from the external power source to the target during the period in question. The control system according to claim 2, wherein each of the first termination condition and the second termination condition is met when the target period has elapsed.

4. The first control device is configured to determine the first threshold value based on a first equation that shows a relationship in which the elapsed time in the target period and the first threshold value are proportional by a first proportionality constant. The second control device is configured to determine the second threshold value based on a second equation that shows a relationship in which the elapsed time in the target period and the second threshold value are proportional by a second proportionality constant. The first control device is configured to change the first proportionality constant in accordance with a request from the user, but not to change the first equation unless a request is received from the user. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the second control device is configured to change the second proportionality constant within a range greater than the first proportionality constant.

5. The control system according to claim 2, wherein the first control device is configured to change the first threshold value in response to input from a user, but does not change the first threshold value in response to input from a second control device.

6. The first resource includes a battery station that possesses a replacement battery interchangeable with the vehicle battery and is configured to provide the replacement battery, The first control device is a computer mounted on the battery station, The second resource includes a power supply system for the vehicle and an air conditioning system. The control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second control device is a computer that is communicatively connected to the power supply equipment and the air conditioning equipment, respectively.

7. In the first adjustment operation, To limit the power consumption by the aforementioned battery station, The battery station discharges the power stored in the replacement battery, At least one of the following is performed: In the second adjustment operation described above, To limit the power consumption of the aforementioned air conditioning equipment, To limit the power consumption by the aforementioned power supply equipment, Discharging the power stored in the battery of the vehicle connected to the aforementioned power supply equipment, The control system according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the following is performed.

8. The first resource includes power supply equipment for vehicles, The first control device is a computer that is communicatively connected to the power supply equipment, The second resource includes air conditioning equipment, The control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second control device is a computer that is communicatively connected to the air conditioning equipment.

9. The control system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the second control device is configured to identify a first start condition by learning the operation of the first resource, and to set a second start condition based on the identified first start condition.

10. The first resource includes a battery station that possesses a replacement battery interchangeable with the vehicle battery and is configured to provide the replacement battery, The first control device is a computer mounted on the battery station, The second resource includes air conditioning equipment, The second control device is a computer that is communicatively connected to the air conditioning equipment, The second control device is configured to control the second resource such that when the first start condition is met, the second resource starts the first adjustment operation, and the first adjustment operation continues until the first end condition is met. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the first control device is configured to control the first resource such that when both the first start condition and the second start condition are met, the first resource starts the second adjustment operation, and the second adjustment operation continues until the second end condition is met.

11. The aforementioned power demand is the cumulative value of the amount of electricity supplied from the external power source to the target during the period in question. The first start condition is met when the amount of electricity demand exceeds the first threshold, The second starting condition is met when the amount of electricity demand exceeds a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold. The control system according to claim 10, wherein each of the first termination condition and the second termination condition is met when the target period has elapsed.

12. A method for controlling the amount of electricity demand, which indicates the amount of electricity supplied to a target from an external power source, The supply target includes a first resource and a second resource configured to adjust the amount of electricity demand, The aforementioned method, When the first start condition is met, one of the first resource and the second resource starts a first adjustment operation to suppress the increase in the amount of electricity demand, If the second start condition is also met in addition to the first start condition, the other of the first and second resources starts a second adjustment operation to suppress the increase in the amount of electricity demand, A control method including

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