Distributed power supply system, method for controlling a distributed power supply system, and output control device.

Abstract

The present invention provides a distributed power generation system, a control method for the distributed power generation system, and an output control device that can more appropriately reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the power grid and more effectively utilize the generated electricity. [Solution] A distributed power system is provided, comprising: a distributed power source; a power converter that converts the power supplied from the distributed power source into AC power corresponding to the load and supplies the converted AC power to the load; an output control device that controls the operation of power conversion by the power converter; and a power generation forecasting device that stores a power generation forecasting model that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by the distributed power source based on weather forecasts at the locations where the distributed power source is installed, predicts the amount of power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time based on the weather forecasting data and the power generation forecasting model, and outputs power generation forecasting information including the predicted value of the amount of power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the demand power required by the load in advance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a distributed power system, a control method for a distributed power system, and an output control device.

Background Art

[0002] A self-consumption type distributed power system using distributed power sources such as solar power generators, wind power generators, and geothermal power generators is known. The distributed power system includes a power conversion device that converts the generated power of the distributed power source into power according to the load and supplies the converted power to the load, and an output control device that controls the operation of converting the power by the power conversion device.

[0003] The self-consumption type distributed power system supplies the generated power to the load, and when the magnitude of the generated power is greater than the magnitude of the power supplied to the load, surplus power is supplied to the power grid side within the scope of the contract with the power company. The output control device controls the operation of converting the power by the power conversion device so that the magnitude of the power supplied to the power grid side (sold power) does not exceed the magnitude of the contract power.

[0004] There is also a fully self-consumption type distributed power system that does not supply power to the power grid side. In this case, the output control device controls the operation of converting the power by the power conversion device so as not to supply power to the power grid side.

[0005] In such distributed power systems, against the backdrop of soaring electricity prices, etc., it is expected to reduce the power purchased from the power grid side as much as possible and reduce energy and electricity costs. However, the generated power changes over time due to influences such as weather. And the required power at the load also changes over time according to the operating condition of the load. Therefore, there is a possibility that a divergence occurs between the generated power and the required power.

[0006] For example, there is a possibility that power demand will increase when power generation is low, and power demand will decrease when power generation is high. If power demand increases when power generation is low, there is a concern that it will become impossible to appropriately reduce purchased electricity. Furthermore, if power demand decreases when power generation is high, there is a concern that some of the generated power will be wasted.

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable that self-consumption type distributed power generation systems and the output control devices used therein be able to more appropriately reduce the electricity purchased from the power grid and to make more effective use of generated electricity. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-152081 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2015 / 129734 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-68782 [Patent Document 4] Patent No. 6849154 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide a distributed power supply system, a control method for the distributed power supply system, and an output control device that can more appropriately reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the power grid and more effectively utilize the generated electricity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a distributed power system is provided comprising: a distributed power source that generates electricity and supplies the generated electricity; a power conversion device that converts the electricity supplied from the distributed power source into AC power corresponding to a load and supplies the converted AC power to the load, thereby suppressing the purchase of electricity from the power grid to the load; an output control device that controls the operation of the power conversion by the power conversion device; a power generation prediction device that stores a power generation prediction model that associates and stores weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed with the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source, thereby enabling the prediction of the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source based on a weather forecast for the location where the distributed power source is installed; a power generation prediction device that receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast result for the location where the distributed power source is installed, predicts the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time based on the weather forecast data and the power generation prediction model, and outputs power generation prediction information including the predicted value of the magnitude of the power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the demand power required by the load in advance based on the power generation prediction information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] A distributed power generation system, a control method for the distributed power generation system, and an output control device are provided that can more appropriately reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the power grid and more effectively utilize the generated electricity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram schematically representing a solar power generation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of power generation forecast information and power demand plan information. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of a solar power generation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of the output control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b) are graphs schematically showing an example of the operation of the output control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram schematically showing a photovoltaic power generation system according to the embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the sizes between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Also, even when representing the same part, the dimensions and ratios may be shown differently in the drawings. In the present specification and each figure, the same reference numerals are assigned to elements similar to those described above with respect to the previously presented figures, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a photovoltaic power generation system according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the photovoltaic power generation system 10 (distributed power system) includes a solar panel 12 (distributed power source), a power conversion device 14, an output control device 16, a switchboard 18, a gateway device 20, and a power generation prediction device 22.

[0015] The photovoltaic power generation system 10 is connected to the power grid 2 and the load 4. The photovoltaic power generation system 10 is a self-consumption type system that suppresses power purchase from the power grid 2 to the load 4 by supplying the generated power generated by the solar panel 12 to the load 4. The power of the power grid 2 is AC power. The load 4 is an AC load. In other words, the load 4 is a consumer.

[0016] The self-consumption type solar power generation system 10 supplies the generated electric power to the load 4, and when the magnitude of the generated electric power is greater than the magnitude of the electric power supplied to the load 4 (the electric power required by the load 4), the surplus electric power is supplied to the power grid 2 within the scope of the contract with the power company. Thereby, in the self-consumption type solar power generation system 10, the surplus electric power can be effectively utilized, and the profit from selling electricity can be obtained.

[0017] The magnitude of the contract power with the power company may be, for example, 0 kW. In other words, the solar power generation system 10 may be a full self-consumption type system that does not supply electric power to the power grid 2 side.

[0018] The solar panel 12 generates electricity and supplies the generated electric power. The solar panel 12 generates electricity by utilizing the photovoltaic effect and converting the light energy of sunlight into electrical energy. The generated electric power of the solar panel 12 is direct current power. The solar panel 12 supplies the generated direct current power to the power conversion device 14.

[0019] The power conversion device 14 is connected to the solar panel 12 and is also connected to the load 4 via the transformer 5, the in-plant power grid 6, etc. The power conversion device 14 converts the electric power supplied from the solar panel 12 into alternating current power corresponding to the load 4 and supplies the converted alternating current power to the load 4.

[0020] The load 4 is connected to the power conversion device 14 and is also connected to the power grid 2 via the in-plant power grid 6, the switchboard 18, etc. The load 4 receives the supply of the generated electric power of the solar panel 12 from the power conversion device 14 and receives the supply of the electric power that is insufficient with the generated electric power of the solar panel 12 for the required electric power from the power grid 2. The power conversion device 14 is configured to suppress the power purchase from the power grid 2 by maximizing the utilization of the generated electric power of the solar panel 12.

[0021] The output control device 16 controls the operation of the power converter 14 in converting electricity. The output control device 16 controls the operation of the power converter 14 in such a way that the amount of electricity supplied to the power grid 2 (electricity sold) does not exceed the amount of contracted power. In the case of a system that consumes all electricity in-house and does not supply electricity to the power grid 2, the output control device 16 controls the operation of the power converter 14 in such a way that it does not supply electricity to the power grid 2. In other words, the contracted power is the maximum amount of electricity that can be supplied from the power converter 14 to the power grid 2.

[0022] The power receiving panel 18 is installed between the power system 2 and the load 4. For example, the power receiving panel 18 is installed between the power system 2 and the premises system 6. The AC power from the power system 2 is supplied to the premises system 6 and the load 4 via the power receiving panel 18.

[0023] The power receiving panel 18 includes, for example, a power meter 24 and a reverse power relay 26 (RPR). The power meter 24 measures the power at the connection point between the solar power generation system 10 and the power grid 2. In other words, the power meter 24 measures the power supplied from the power grid 2 to the load 4, or the power going from the power converter 14 to the power grid 2 side. The power at the connection point is, in other words, the difference between the power required by the load 4 and the power supplied from the solar panels 12 to the load 4.

[0024] The power receiving panel 18 is connected to the output control device 16, for example, via a communication line. The power receiving panel 18 communicates with the output control device 16 via the communication line, and inputs the measurement results of the power meter 24 to the output control device 16. The power supplied from the power system 2 to the load 4 may be determined, for example, by measuring the voltage and current values ​​at the interconnection point and calculating the power on the output control device 16 side based on the measurement results. Communication between the power receiving panel 18 and the output control device 16 is not limited to wired communication, but may also be via wireless communication. The form of communication between the power receiving panel 18 and the output control device 16 may be any form that allows for appropriate communication.

[0025] The reverse power relay 26 detects the magnitude of the power (active power) flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2. In other words, the reverse power relay 26 detects the magnitude of the reverse power flow. The power converter 14 is connected to the power system 2 via the transformer 5, the premises system 6, and the power receiving panel 18. Therefore, if the power generated by the solar panels 12 becomes greater than the power consumed by the load 4, a portion of the output power of the power converter 14 flows to the power system 2. The reverse power relay 26 detects the magnitude of this power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 and operates to prevent the magnitude of the power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 from exceeding the contracted power.

[0026] The reverse power relay 26 is connected to the power converter 14 via a signal line. The reverse power relay 26 inputs a detection signal to the power converter 14 when it detects that the magnitude of the power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power. For example, the reverse power relay 26 inputs a detection signal to the power converter 14 if the state in which the magnitude of the power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power continues for a predetermined time or longer. In other words, the reverse power relay 26 inputs a detection signal to the power converter 14 if the state in which the magnitude of the power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power continues for a predetermined time or longer. The predetermined time is, for example, about 0.5 seconds to 2 seconds.

[0027] The power converter 14 stops outputting AC power to the load 4 in response to a detection signal from the reverse power relay 26. In this way, the reverse power relay 26 stops the operation of the power converter 14 that outputs AC power to the load 4 in response to detection that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power. This prevents the power system 2 from continuously receiving power exceeding the contracted power. In other words, the reverse power relay 26 performs the operation of stopping the power converter 14 as an operation to prevent the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 from exceeding the contracted power.

[0028] The reverse power relay 26 may, for example, have a circuit breaker that opens and closes the connection to the power system 2. The reverse power relay 26 may, upon detecting that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power, stop the operation of the power converter 14 and open the circuit breaker, thereby preventing the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 from exceeding the contracted power. The operation to prevent the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 from exceeding the contracted power may also be the operation of stopping the operation of the power converter 14 and opening the circuit breaker. Note that the reverse power relay 26 does not necessarily have to be installed in the power receiving panel 18. The reverse power relay 26 may be installed separately from the power receiving panel 18.

[0029] The power converter 14 includes a conversion circuit 40, a control unit 41, a communication unit 42, and an input unit 43.

[0030] The conversion circuit 40 is a circuit that converts the power supplied from the solar panel 12 into AC power corresponding to the load 4. The conversion circuit 40 is, for example, an inverter circuit. The control unit 41 controls the operation of the power conversion by the conversion circuit 40.

[0031] The communication unit 42 is connected to the control unit 41 and also to the output control device 16 via a communication line or the like. The communication unit 42 communicates with the output control device 16 via the communication line or the like. The form of communication between the communication unit 42 (power converter 14) and the output control device 16 can be any form.

[0032] The output control device 16 inputs a control signal to the communication unit 42 to control the operation of the power converter 14. The communication unit 42 communicates with the output control device 16, receives the control signal from the output control device 16, and inputs the input control signal to the control unit 41. The control unit 41 controls the operation of the conversion circuit 40 based on the control signal input from the communication unit 42. This makes it possible to control the AC power output from the conversion circuit 40 (power converter 14) in accordance with the control signal input from the output control device 16.

[0033] The input unit 43 is connected to the reverse power relay 26 via a signal line. The input unit 43 is also connected to the control unit 41. The input unit 43 inputs the detection signal received from the reverse power relay 26 via the signal line to the control unit 41. In response to the detection signal input from the input unit 43, the control unit 41 stops the power conversion operation by the conversion circuit 40.

[0034] In this manner, the reverse power relay 26 is connected to the input unit 43, for example, via a signal line, and stops the operation of the power converter 14 by inputting a detection signal to the input unit 43 in response to the detection that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power. As a result, as described above, the operation of the power converter 14 is stopped in response to the detection by the reverse power relay 26 that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power, thereby preventing the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 from exceeding the contracted power.

[0035] Communication via the communication unit 42, etc., can transmit and receive various types of information, such as control signals indicating the magnitude of the output power of the power converter 14. On the other hand, communication via the communication unit 42, etc., is subject to delays due to processing by the communication unit 42, etc. Communication via the communication unit 42, etc., conforms to communication standards such as Ethernet and RS485. In other words, the communication unit 42 is a communication circuit that conforms to a predetermined communication standard.

[0036] In signal line communication, only binary inputs are possible, such as the input and deactivation of a reverse power flow detection signal. The detection signal is a signal that has two states: a detected state, where the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power, and a non-detected state. On the other hand, signal line communication suppresses delays in communication, such as processing by the communication unit, and allows for faster input of each signal compared to communication by the communication unit 42. Signal line communication is, for example, communication by switching the on and off of contacts such as relays. The input unit 43 is a circuit that uses contact input, which is faster than communication by the communication unit 42. The input unit 43 is, for example, an input / output terminal (IO terminal). The signal line is, for example, a hardwire.

[0037] In the solar power generation system 10, the power output from the power converter 14 (conversion circuit 40) is controlled by communication using the communication unit 42, etc. On the other hand, signal line communication is used to stop the operation of the power converter 14 in response to the detection of the reverse power relay 26. As a result, stopping the operation of the power converter 14 in response to the detection that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power can be done faster than communication using the communication unit 42, etc. Thus, the solar power generation system 10 uses contact input, which is faster than communication using the communication unit 42, etc., to stop the operation of the power converter 14 in response to the detection that the magnitude of power flowing from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 exceeds the contracted power.

[0038] The output control device 16 includes a control unit 50, a communication unit 51, an operation unit 52, and a display unit 53. The communication unit 51 is connected to the control unit 50, and is also connected to the power receiving panel 18 via a communication line, and is also connected to the communication unit 42 of the power converter 14 via a communication line. The communication unit 51 communicates with the power receiving panel 18 to receive input of the measurement results of the power meter 24 from the power receiving panel 18, and inputs the input measurement results of the power meter 24 to the control unit 50. In other words, the communication unit 51 communicates with the power receiving panel 18 to receive input of information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power system 2, and inputs the input information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power system 2 to the control unit 50.

[0039] Furthermore, information on the magnitude of power at the interconnection point is not limited to the power receiving panel 18, but may also be obtained from other devices. The configuration for obtaining information on the magnitude of power at the interconnection point is not limited to the above, and may be any configuration that allows for the appropriate acquisition of information through communication by the communication unit 51.

[0040] Furthermore, the communication unit 51 receives control signals from the control unit 50 to control the operation of the power converter 14. The communication unit 51 communicates with the communication unit 42 of the power converter 14 and inputs the control signals received from the control unit 50 to the communication unit 42. In other words, the communication unit 51 transmits control signals to the communication unit 42.

[0041] Furthermore, the communication unit 51 communicates with the communication unit 42 of the power converter 14 to receive information regarding the status monitoring of the power converter 14, and inputs the received status monitoring information to the control unit 50. The status monitoring information includes information on the current amount of power generated by the solar panel 12. In other words, the communication unit 51 communicates with the communication unit 42 to receive information on the current amount of power generated by the solar panel 12, and inputs the received information on the current amount of power generated by the solar panel 12 to the control unit 50. The current amount of power generated by the solar panel 12 is, in other words, the amount of power that can be supplied to the load 4 from the power converter 14 at this moment. "This moment" refers, for example, to the time when the communication unit 42 and the communication unit 51 communicate (the time when the output control device 16 receives the information on the amount of power generated).

[0042] Furthermore, information on the current power generation of the solar panel 12 may be obtained from another device, not limited to the power conversion device 14. The configuration for obtaining information on the current power generation of the solar panel 12 is not limited to the above, and may be any configuration that allows for the appropriate acquisition of information through communication by the communication unit 51.

[0043] The operation unit 52 is connected to the control unit 50. The operation unit 52 receives operation instructions from the user and inputs operation signals corresponding to the input instructions to the control unit 50. The operation unit 52 is a well-known input device such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel. Here, the user is, for example, an administrator who manages the solar power generation system 10 (power generation equipment). However, the user is not limited to this, and can be any person who operates the operation unit 52 and inputs operation instructions.

[0044] The display unit 53 is connected to the control unit 50. Based on the control by the control unit 50, the display unit 53 displays various operation screens. The display unit 53 is a well-known display device, such as a liquid crystal display.

[0045] The power generation prediction device 22 has a memory unit 60. The memory unit 60 stores a power generation prediction model 62 that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12 based on the weather forecast for the location where the solar panels 12 (distributed power source) are installed, by associating and storing weather information for the location where the solar panels 12 are installed with the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12.

[0046] If the distributed power source is a solar panel 12, the weather information includes, for example, information on the amount of solar radiation at the location where the solar panel 12 is installed. The power generation prediction model 62 stores, for example, the magnitude of solar radiation and the magnitude of power generated by the solar panel 12 in association. This allows the power generation prediction model 62 to predict the magnitude of power generated by the solar panel 12 based on the predicted amount of solar radiation at any given time at the location where the solar panel 12 is installed.

[0047] However, meteorological information is not limited to solar radiation information. For example, the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12 also changes depending on the temperature of the solar panels 12. For this reason, meteorological information may also include, for example, temperature information and precipitation information. Meteorological information is not limited to the above and may be any information that makes it possible to predict the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12 (distributed power source) based on the weather forecast for the location where the solar panels 12 (distributed power source) are installed. Meteorological information may be any information related to the amount of power generated by the distributed power source.

[0048] The power generation prediction model 62 is generated by machine learning (supervised learning) based on, for example, past weather information observed for the location where the solar panels 12 are installed, information on the past magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12, information on the arrangement of the solar panels 12, and information on losses within the solar power generation system 10 (power generation equipment). For example, past weather information and information on the past magnitude of power generated may include data from the past several years. Based on the above information, the power generation prediction model 62 is generated as a specific model for each solar power generation system 10 (power generation equipment).

[0049] The power generation prediction model 62 is generated by the power generation prediction device 22 by inputting the above information, etc., into the power generation prediction device 22, and stored in the memory unit 60. The power generation prediction device 22 has a function to generate the power generation prediction model 62 by machine learning based on the input information, etc.

[0050] The power generation forecasting device 22 receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the solar panels 12 are installed. The power generation forecasting device 22 receives weather forecast data from the weather forecast data providing device 7 by communicating with the weather forecast data providing device 7, for example via a network NT. The weather forecast data providing device 7 is, for example, a server of a weather forecasting company that provides information on weather forecasts.

[0051] However, the weather forecast data providing device 7 is not limited to the above and may be any device capable of providing weather forecast data. Also, the method of inputting weather forecast data to the power generation forecasting device 22 is not limited to the above and may be any method that allows for the appropriate input of weather forecast data to the power generation forecasting device 22. For example, the output control device 16 may acquire weather forecast data from the weather forecast data providing device 7 or the like, and the power generation forecasting device 22 may receive weather forecast data from the output control device 16 by communicating with the output control device 16.

[0052] The power generation forecasting device 22 predicts the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12 after a predetermined time, based on the input weather forecast data and the power generation forecasting model 62. For example, the power generation forecasting device 22 receives weather forecast data for the next day from the weather forecast data providing device 7 at any time on the previous day. The weather forecast data includes, for example, multiple weather forecast results (e.g., solar radiation) for the next day, predicted at predetermined intervals such as every hour. The power generation forecasting device 22 then predicts the amount of power generated by the solar panels 12 for the next day, based on the input weather forecast data for the next day and the power generation forecasting model 62.

[0053] The power generation forecasting device 22 outputs power generation forecasting information, including a predicted value for the magnitude of power generated, thereby enabling the power demand required by load 4 to be planned in advance based on the power generation forecasting information. The power generation forecasting device 22 communicates with the power demand planning setting device 8, for example via a network NT, and outputs the power generation forecasting information to the power demand planning setting device 8, thereby enabling the power demand planning setting device 8 to plan the power demand required by load 4 in advance based on the power generation forecasting information.

[0054] The demand power planning and setting device 8 includes, for example, a display unit and an operation unit. The demand power planning and setting device 8 displays the power generation forecast information input from the power generation forecasting device 22 on its display unit. In other words, the demand power planning and setting device 8 displays the predicted value of the amount of power generated on its display unit. In this way, the demand power planning and setting device 8 presents the predicted value of the amount of power generated to the user. In other words, the demand power planning and setting device 8 visualizes the predicted value of the amount of power generated.

[0055] The demand power planning device 8 allows the user to set the planned value of the demand power required by the load 4 based on the operation of the control unit. The demand power planning device 8 communicates with the output control device 16 via the network NT or the like, and inputs demand power planning value information, which represents the set planned value of the demand power, to the output control device 16.

[0056] The demand power planning device 8 is, for example, a user's terminal. The demand power planning device 8 may also be, for example, a mobile terminal owned by the user. However, the demand power planning device 8 may be any device capable of appropriately displaying power generation forecast information and setting planned values ​​for power demand.

[0057] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram that schematically represents an example of power generation forecast information and power demand plan information. As shown in Figure 2, the power generation forecast information includes, for example, predicted values ​​for the magnitude of multiple power generation amounts predicted at predetermined intervals. The power generation forecast information includes, for example, predicted values ​​for the magnitude of multiple power generation amounts for the entire next day predicted at predetermined intervals. The predetermined interval is, for example, one hour. The power generation forecast information includes, for example, 24 predicted values ​​predicted at one-hour intervals. However, the predetermined interval is not limited to one hour and can be any time. The predetermined interval is set, for example, according to the unit time of the weather forecast.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the demand power plan information includes, for example, multiple demand power plan values ​​set at predetermined intervals. The demand power plan information includes, for example, multiple demand power plan values ​​for the next day set at predetermined intervals. The predetermined interval is, for example, one hour, similar to the power generation forecast information, but can be set appropriately according to the unit time of the weather forecast, etc. The predetermined interval for the demand power plan information may be the same as or different from the predetermined interval for the power generation forecast information.

[0059] The power demand planning device 8, for example as shown in Figure 2, displays power generation forecast information and planned values ​​for multiple power demands at predetermined intervals on the display unit, thereby enabling the setting of planned values ​​for multiple power demands according to the power generation forecast information. In Figure 2, the power generation forecast information is shown as a line graph based on multiple forecast values, and the planned values ​​for multiple power demands are shown as a bar graph. The method of displaying the power generation forecast information and the planned values ​​for multiple power demands is not limited to the above, and any display method that displays power generation forecast information and planned values ​​for multiple power demands and enables the appropriate setting of planned values ​​for multiple power demands according to the power generation forecast information is acceptable. For example, multiple forecast values ​​may be displayed as a bar graph.

[0060] The user sets the planned values ​​for multiple demand powers by operating the control unit, based on the power generation forecast information and the planned values ​​for multiple demand powers displayed on the display unit of the demand power planning setting device 8.

[0061] For example, in the example shown in Figure 2, during the time period from 10:00 to 14:00, the planned power demand is lower than the predicted power generation, resulting in surplus power. In contrast, during time periods such as 9:00 and from 16:00 to 18:00, the planned power demand is higher than the predicted power generation, resulting in purchased electricity.

[0062] In this case, the user can change the planned power demand by reviewing, for example, the operating status of Load 4 for each time period (e.g., the number of products manufactured or the manufacturing process). For example, in the example shown in Figure 2, the planned power demand is lowered during time periods such as 9:00 and from 16:00 to 18:00, and increased during the time period from 10:00 to 14:00. This allows for more effective use of generated power and more appropriate reduction of purchased electricity.

[0063] Furthermore, for example, if the output control device 16 limits the output power of the power converter 14 so that the amount of surplus power is greater than the amount of contracted power and the amount of power sold does not exceed the amount of contracted power, it is possible to increase the planned value of demand power and adjust the planned value of demand power so that the amount of power sold is less than the contracted power, thereby suppressing the wasteful generation of power due to the limitation of output power.

[0064] The demand power planning setting device 8 displays power generation forecast information and planned values ​​for multiple demand power values ​​at predetermined intervals on its display unit. After the user has set the planned values ​​for multiple demand power values, the device inputs the demand power planning value information representing the set planned values ​​for multiple demand power values ​​to the output control device 16, in response to the user inputting the completion of setting the planned values ​​for multiple demand power values ​​via the operation unit.

[0065] The control unit 50 of the output control device 16 receives input of the planned demand power value information and controls the operation of the power converter 14 by generating a control signal to control the operation of the power converter 14 based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power system 2, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12, and the planned demand power value information.

[0066] In the example above, at any time on the previous day, the power generation forecast information for the following day is output to the power demand planning setting device 8, and the power demand plan value information for the following day is input to the output control device 16. However, the predicted power generation value included in the power generation forecast information and the planned power demand value included in the power demand plan value information are not necessarily limited to the following day. The predicted power generation value included in the power generation forecast information and the planned power demand value included in the power demand plan value information can be any amount of predicted and planned values ​​that are available in time for the power converter 14 to be controlled by the output control device 16. Furthermore, the timing of outputting the power generation forecast information and inputting the power demand plan value information is not limited to the previous day, but can be at any time.

[0067] For example, the predicted value of the power generated one hour later may be output to the demand power planning setting device 8, and the planned value of the demand power one hour later, which is set based on the predicted power generated, may be input to the output control device 16. In this case as well, the power converter 14 can be controlled based on the planned value of the demand power.

[0068] Furthermore, in the above example, power generation forecast information is output to the demand power planning setting device 8, allowing the demand power to be planned in advance by the demand power planning setting device 8. However, this is not the only option; for example, power generation forecast information may be output to the output control device 16, and the power generation forecast information may be displayed on the display unit 53 of the output control device 16, allowing the planned value of the demand power to be set based on the operation of the operation unit 52 of the output control device 16. The demand power planned value information may also be generated by the control unit 50 (output control device 16) based on the operation of the operation unit 52.

[0069] The power generation forecasting device 22 receives information on the current power generation magnitude of the solar panels 12 by communicating with the output control device 16, for example via a network NT, and also receives information on the weather at the location where the solar panels 12 are installed at the time of power generation by communicating with the weather forecast data providing device 7, for example via a network NT. The power generation forecasting device 22 may also receive information on the current power generation magnitude of the solar panels 12 from the power converter 14 by communicating with the power converter 14, for example.

[0070] The power generation prediction device 22 updates the power generation prediction model 62 using machine learning based on the input information on the current power generation magnitude of the solar panel 12 (information on the actual power generation magnitude), weather information at the location where the solar panel 12 is installed at the time of power generation, and the power generation prediction model 62 stored in the memory unit 60. The power generation prediction device 22 then stores the updated power generation prediction model 62 in the memory unit 60. In this way, by updating the power generation prediction model 62 based on newly acquired information on the power generation magnitude, the accuracy of the power generation prediction model 62 can be improved. In other words, the accuracy of the power generation magnitude prediction based on the power generation prediction model 62 can be improved.

[0071] Thus, the power generation forecasting device 22, for example, predicts the magnitude of power generation based on the power generation forecasting model 62, and also generates and updates the power generation forecasting model 62. The power generation forecasting device 22 is, for example, a cloud server connected to network NT.

[0072] However, the power generation prediction device 22 does not necessarily have to generate and update the power generation prediction model 62. The power generation prediction model 62 may be generated by an external device, for example, and then stored in the storage unit 60 of the power generation prediction device 22 by inputting it via communication or a storage medium. The power generation prediction device 22 can be any device that at least predicts the magnitude of power generation based on the power generation prediction model 62.

[0073] The gateway device 20 is installed between the output control device 16 and the power generation forecasting device 22. In other words, the gateway device 20 is installed between the output control device 16 and the network NT. The gateway device 20 is installed, for example, between the network within the premises of the solar power generation system 10 (power generation equipment) and the external network NT. The gateway device 20 suppresses unauthorized access to the output control device 16 from the outside. The output control device 16 communicates with the power generation forecasting device 22 and the demand power planning setting device 8 via the gateway device 20. However, the gateway device 20 is installed as needed and can be omitted.

[0074] Figure 3 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of a solar power generation system according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, in the solar power generation system 10, first, the power generation forecasting device 22 communicates with the weather forecast data providing device 7 via a network NT or the like, and acquires weather forecast data by receiving weather forecast data input from the weather forecast data providing device 7 (step S101 in Figure 3).

[0075] The power generation forecasting device 22 predicts the magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12 after a predetermined time based on the input weather forecast data and the power generation forecasting model 62, and generates power generation forecasting information including the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated. The power generation forecasting device 22 then outputs the generated power generation forecasting information to the demand power planning setting device 8 (step S102 in Figure 3).

[0076] The demand power planning setting device 8 displays the power generation forecast information input from the power generation forecasting device 22 on its display unit, presenting the user with a predicted value for the magnitude of power generation, and enabling the user to set the planned value of the demand power required by the load 4 based on the user's operation on the control unit (step S103 in Figure 3). Based on the user's operation on the control unit, the demand power planning setting device 8 generates demand power plan value information that represents the set planned value of demand power. Then, the demand power planning setting device 8 communicates with the output control device 16 via the network NT or the like, and inputs the generated demand power plan value information to the output control device 16.

[0077] The control unit 50 of the output control device 16 acquires the demand power plan value information by receiving the demand power plan value information from the demand power plan setting device 8 (step S104 in Figure 3).

[0078] Then, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power converter 14 by generating a control signal to control the operation of the power converter 14 based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power system 2, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12, and information on the planned value of the power demand (step S105 in Figure 3).

[0079] Figure 4 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of the output control device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, when the control unit 50 of the output control device 16 controls the operation of power conversion by the power converter 14, it first receives information on the magnitude of the power at the connection point with the power system 2 from the power meter 24 to obtain the power at the connection point (Tp) (step S201 in Figure 4). Here, the power at the connection point (Tp) is defined as positive for the reverse power flow direction (direction of supply to the power system 2) and negative for the power purchase direction (direction of receiving power from the power system 2).

[0080] The control unit 50 receives information from the power converter 14 regarding the current magnitude of power generated by the solar panel 12, thereby acquiring the current power generation (Op) (step S202 in Figure 4).

[0081] After acquiring the power at the interconnection point (Tp) and the current generated power (Op), the control unit 50 calculates the power required by load 4 (Lp) using the following equation (1) (step S203 in Figure 4). Lp = Op - Tp (1)

[0082] If the current generated power (Op) is greater than the power required by load 4 (Lp), and electricity is being sold, the power required by load 4 (Lp) can be calculated by subtracting the power at the connection point (Tp) (the amount of electricity sold) from the current generated power (Op).

[0083] Conversely, if the current generated power (Op) is less than the power required by load 4 (Lp), and purchased electricity is being generated, the power required by load 4 (Lp) can be calculated by adding the magnitude of the power at the connection point (Tp) (magnitude of purchased electricity) to the magnitude of the current generated power (Op).

[0084] After calculating the power (Lp) required by the load 4, the control unit 50 obtains the current value of the requested output control value (C) by communicating with a higher-level controller (such as the power company's server) (step S204 in Figure 4). In other words, the current value of the requested output control value (C) is the command value for output control that limits the power going from the power converter 14 to the power system 2. The current value of the requested output control value (C) is expressed, for example, as a ratio where the contracted power is 100% and the power sold is 0kW, which is 0%.

[0085] The control unit 50 obtains the current value (C) of the requested output control value, and then subsequently obtains the maximum load fluctuation value (Mp) per unit time (step S205 in Figure 4). The control unit 50 obtains the maximum load fluctuation value (Mp) based on, for example, the demand power plan value information. In other words, the control unit 50 predicts the fluctuation value of the demand power (power required by load 4) in the next instruction cycle (control cycle) based on the demand power plan value information. The maximum load fluctuation value (Mp) is calculated, for example, based on the difference between the power currently required by load 4 (Lp) and the planned value of the demand power after a predetermined time.

[0086] After acquiring the maximum load fluctuation value (Mp), the control unit 50 calculates a load prediction (Fp) that represents the amount of power required by load 4 in the next instruction cycle using the following equation (2) (step S206 in Figure 4). That is, the control unit 50 calculates the load prediction (Fp) by adding the maximum load fluctuation value (Mp) to the power currently required by load 4 (Lp). Fp = Lp + Mp (2)

[0087] After calculating the load prediction (Fp), the control unit 50 calculates the reverse power flow limit value (Rp), which represents the amount of power that can be output from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 side, based on the contracted power (Cp) and the current value of the requested output control value (C), using the following equation (3) (step S207 in Figure 4). Rp = Cp × C / 100 (3)

[0088] After calculating the reverse power flow limit value (Rp), the control unit 50 calculates the PCS instruction value (Itemp), which represents the magnitude of power output from the power converter 14, using the following equation (4) (step S208 in Figure 4). That is, the control unit 50 calculates the PCS instruction value (Itemp) by subtracting the margin (α) from the value obtained by adding the reverse power flow limit value (Rp) to the load prediction (Fp). The margin (α) is a parameter that provides a margin so that the magnitude of power output from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 side does not exceed the reverse power flow limit value (Rp). Itemp = Fp + Rp - α (4)

[0089] The control unit 50 calculates the PCS instruction value (Itemp) and then determines whether the calculated PCS instruction value (Itemp) is greater than 0 (step S209 in Figure 4).

[0090] If the PCS indicator value (Itemp) is greater than 0, the control unit 50 sets the PCS indicator value (Itemp) to the PCS indicator value (Ip), which represents the magnitude of power output from the power converter 14. In this case, the control unit 50 generates a control signal to output the magnitude of power represented by the PCS indicator value (Ip), and inputs the generated control signal to the power converter 14, thereby controlling the operation of the power converter 14 to output the magnitude of power represented by the PCS indicator value (Ip).

[0091] On the other hand, if the PCS instruction value (Itemp) is less than 0 (i.e., the sum of the load prediction (Fp) and the reverse power flow limit value (Rp) is less than the margin (α)), the control unit 50 sets the PCS instruction value (Ip) to 0. In this case, the control unit 50 generates a control signal that sets the magnitude of the power output from the power converter 14 to 0, and inputs the generated control signal to the power converter 14, thereby controlling the operation of the power converter 14 so that the magnitude of the power output from the power converter 14 is 0.

[0092] As a result, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power conversion device 14 based on information about the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid 2, information about the current magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12, and information about the planned power demand value.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 50 outputs an error detection signal, for example, if the prediction error of the load prediction (FP) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. More specifically, the prediction error is the difference between the load prediction (Fp) and the power (Lp) actually required by the load 4 at the predicted time.

[0094] The control unit 50, for example, outputs an error detection signal to the display unit 53 or the demand power planning device 8, thereby indicating on the display unit 53 or the demand power planning device 8 that the prediction error has exceeded a predetermined value. This allows the user to be notified that the amount of power (Lp) required by the load 4 differs from the pre-set planned value of demand power. This allows the user to be prompted, for example, to adjust the amount of power (Lp) required by the load 4. For example, by adjusting the amount of power (Lp) required by the load 4, the amount of power (Lp) required by the load 4 can be brought closer to the pre-set planned value of demand power.

[0095] The control unit 50 may, for example, output an error detection signal to a control device such as a BEMS (Building Energy Management System) to automatically control the amount of power (Lp) required by load 4 so that it approaches the pre-set planned value of power demand. For example, if the amount of power (Lp) required by load 4 is greater than the pre-set planned value of power demand, the output of the error detection signal automatically turns off unnecessary power sources such as heating, cooling, and lighting in load 4 (power generation equipment). This makes it possible to automatically bring the amount of power (Lp) required by load 4 closer to the pre-set planned value of power demand.

[0096] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may, for example, receive power generation forecast information from the power generation forecasting device 22 and output an error detection signal if the prediction error of the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In this case, the prediction error is more specifically the difference between the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated and the current power generated (Op). The output of the error detection signal for the prediction error of the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated may be performed, for example, by the power generation forecasting device 22.

[0097] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are schematic graphs illustrating an example of the operation of the output control device according to the embodiment. Figure 5(a) schematically shows an example of operation when output control is not set (when the current value of the requested output control value (C) is 100%). As shown in Figure 5(a), when output control is not set, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power conversion by the power converter 14 so that the amount of power going from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 is the amount obtained by subtracting the margin (α) from the contracted power (Cp).

[0098] Figure 5(b) schematically shows an example of operation when output control is set to 0% for the time period from 11:00 to 14:00. As shown in Figure 5(b), when output control is set, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power converter 14 to convert power so that the amount of power going from the power converter 14 to the power system 2 side is the amount obtained by subtracting the margin (α) from the reverse power flow limit value (Rp). When the current value (C) of the requested output control is set to 0%, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power converter 14 to convert power so that it outputs power of an amount obtained by subtracting the margin (α) from the power required by the load 4, as shown in Figure 5(b).

[0099] As described above, in the solar power generation system 10 according to this embodiment, the power generation forecasting device 22 outputs power generation forecasting information including a predicted value for the magnitude of power generated, so that the power demand required by the load 4 can be planned in advance based on the power generation forecasting information. As a result, in the solar power generation system 10 according to this embodiment, the user can set the planned value of power demand in advance. For example, by lowering the planned value of power demand during the time when purchased electricity is generated and raising the planned value of power demand during the time when sold electricity is generated, power generated can be utilized more effectively and purchased electricity can be suppressed more appropriately.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, if the output control device 16 limits the output power of the power converter 14 so that the amount of surplus power is greater than the amount of contracted power and the amount of power sold does not exceed the amount of contracted power, it is possible to increase the planned value of demand power and adjust the planned value of demand power so that the amount of power sold is less than the contracted power, thereby suppressing the wasteful generation of power due to the limitation of output power.

[0101] Thus, the solar power generation system 10 according to this embodiment can more appropriately reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the power grid 2 and more effectively utilize the generated electricity.

[0102] Furthermore, in the solar power generation system 10 according to this embodiment, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the power converter 14 by generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the power converter 14 based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid 2, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the solar panels 12, and information on the planned demand power value. As a result, in the solar power generation system 10 according to this embodiment, it is possible to predict the magnitude of the demand power after a predetermined time (for example, after the next instruction cycle) based on the planned demand power value information. As a result, for example, when controlling the magnitude of power output from the power converter 14 so that the magnitude of power going from the power converter 14 to the power grid 2 side is less than the reverse power flow limit value (Rp), the operation of the power converter 14 can be controlled more appropriately.

[0103] More specifically, the control unit 50 calculates a load forecast (Fp) representing the amount of power required by the load 4 after a predetermined time (the next instruction cycle) based on the planned power demand information, and controls the operation of the power converter 14 to output power of an amount corresponding to the load forecast (Fp). This allows for more appropriate control of the power converter 14's operation, taking into account fluctuations in power demand after a predetermined time. For example, the amount of power output from the power converter 14 can be brought more appropriately close to the sum of the amount of power required by the load 4 and the amount of power supplied to the power system 2.

[0104] Figure 6 is a block diagram schematically representing a photovoltaic power generation system according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, in the photovoltaic power generation system 10a, the output control device 16a has a memory unit 60 and a power generation prediction model 62. Components that are substantially the same in function and configuration as those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0105] In the solar power generation system 10a, the output control device 16a receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the solar panels 12 are installed, and based on the input weather forecast data and the power generation forecast model 62, predicts the magnitude of the power generated by the solar panels 12 after a predetermined time, and outputs power generation forecast information including the predicted value of the magnitude of the power generated, thereby enabling the plan for the power demand required by the load 4 to be made in advance based on the power generation forecast information.

[0106] The operation of the output control device 16a regarding power generation prediction can be the same as the operation of the power generation prediction device 22 in the above embodiment, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. The output control device 16a may have a function to generate and update the power generation prediction model 62, similar to the power generation prediction device 22.

[0107] Thus, the prediction of the amount of generated power is not limited to the power generation prediction device 22, but may also be performed by the output control device 16a. In this case as well, similar to the embodiment described above, the power purchased from the power grid 2 can be reduced more appropriately, and the generated power can be utilized more effectively.

[0108] In the above embodiment, a solar power generation system 10 is shown as an example of a distributed power system, using solar panels 12 as a distributed power source. The distributed power source is not limited to solar panels 12, but may also be, for example, a wind turbine or a geothermal generator. The distributed power source may be any power source capable of supplying the generated electricity. The electricity supplied by the distributed power source is not limited to DC power, but may also be AC ​​power, etc. The distributed power system is not limited to the solar power generation system 10, but may be any system using any distributed power source.

[0109] If the distributed power source is a wind turbine, the meteorological information in the power generation prediction model 62 and the weather forecast data includes, for example, information on wind speed and wind direction at the location where the wind turbine is installed. However, the meteorological information is not limited to the above and may be any information that allows for the prediction of the magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source based on the weather forecast at the location where the distributed power source is installed.

[0110] This embodiment includes the following aspects. (Note 1) A distributed power source that generates electricity and also supplies the electricity it generates, A power conversion device that converts power supplied from the distributed power source into AC power corresponding to the load, and supplies the converted AC power to the load, thereby suppressing the purchase of electricity from the power grid to the load, An output control device that controls the operation of power conversion by the power conversion device, A power generation forecasting device that stores a power generation forecasting model that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by a distributed power source based on a weather forecast for the location where the distributed power source is installed, by associating and storing weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed with the amount of power generated by the distributed power source, receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast result for the location where the distributed power source is installed, predicts the amount of power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time based on the weather forecast data and the power generation forecasting model, and outputs power generation forecasting information including the predicted amount of power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecasting information. A distributed power system equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

[0111] (Note 2) The distributed power system according to Appendix 1, wherein the output control device controls the operation of the power conversion device based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source, and demand power plan value information representing the set demand power plan value.

[0112] (Note 3) The distributed power supply system according to Appendix 2, wherein the output control device calculates a load prediction representing the amount of power required by the load after a predetermined time based on the demand power plan value information, and controls the operation of the power conversion device to output power of an amount corresponding to the load prediction.

[0113] (Note 4) The output control device outputs an error detection signal when the prediction error of the load prediction is greater than or equal to a predetermined value in the distributed power supply system as described in Appendix 3.

[0114] (Note 5) The distributed power system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the power generation forecasting device communicates with the demand power planning setting device and outputs the power generation forecasting information to the demand power planning setting device, thereby enabling the demand power planning setting device to pre-plan the demand power required for the load based on the power generation forecasting information.

[0115] (Note 6) The distributed power system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the power generation forecasting device communicates with the output control device and outputs the power generation forecasting information to the output control device, thereby enabling the output control device to plan the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecasting information.

[0116] (Note 7) A control method for a self-consumption type distributed power system that suppresses the purchase of electricity from the power grid to a load by converting power supplied from a distributed power source into AC power corresponding to the load using a power conversion device, and supplying the converted AC power to the load, A power generation prediction model that stores weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed in association with the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source, thereby enabling the prediction of the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source based on weather forecasts for the location where the distributed power source is installed; and a process of predicting the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time, based on weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the distributed power source is installed, and generating power generation prediction information including the predicted value of the magnitude of the power generated. Based on the power generation forecast information, the process involves setting a planned value for the power demand required by the load, thereby generating power demand plan value information that represents the set planned value for power demand. A process of controlling the operation of the power conversion device based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source, and information on the planned demand power value, A method for controlling a distributed power system, including [a specific component].

[0117] (Note 8) An output control device used in a self-consumption type distributed power system that converts power supplied from distributed power sources into AC power corresponding to the load using a power conversion device, and supplies the converted AC power to the load, thereby suppressing the purchase of electricity from the power grid to the load, A storage unit stores a power generation prediction model that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by the distributed power source based on the weather forecast for the location where the distributed power source is installed, by associating and storing weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed with the amount of power generated by the distributed power source. A communication unit that receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the distributed power supply is installed, A control unit that, based on the weather forecast data and the power generation forecast model, predicts the magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time, and outputs power generation forecast information including the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecast information. An output control device equipped with the following features.

[0118] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 2…Power system, 4…Load, 5…Transformer, 6…In-house system, 7…Weather forecast data provision device, 8…Demand power planning setting device, 10, 10a…Solar power generation system (distributed power system), 12…Solar panel (distributed power source), 14…Power converter, 16, 16a…Output control device, 18…Receiving board, 20…Gateway device, 22…Power generation forecasting device, 24…Power meter, 26…Reverse power relay, 40…Conversion circuit, 41…Control unit, 42…Communication unit, 43…Input unit, 50…Control unit, 51…Communication unit, 52…Operation unit, 53…Display unit, 60…Storage unit, 62…Power generation forecasting model

Claims

1. A distributed power source that generates electricity and also supplies the electricity it generates, A power conversion device that converts power supplied from the distributed power source into AC power corresponding to the load, and supplies the converted AC power to the load, thereby suppressing the purchase of electricity from the power grid to the load, An output control device that controls the operation of power conversion by the power conversion device, A power generation forecasting device that stores a power generation forecasting model that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by a distributed power source based on a weather forecast for the location where the distributed power source is installed, by associating and storing weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed with the amount of power generated by the distributed power source, receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast result for the location where the distributed power source is installed, predicts the amount of power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time based on the weather forecast data and the power generation forecasting model, and outputs power generation forecasting information including the predicted amount of power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecasting information. A distributed power system equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

2. The distributed power system according to claim 1, wherein the output control device controls the operation of the power conversion device based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source, and demand power plan value information representing the set demand power plan value.

3. The distributed power supply system according to claim 2, wherein the output control device calculates a load prediction representing the amount of power required by the load after a predetermined time based on the demand power plan value information, and controls the operation of the power conversion device to output power of an amount corresponding to the load prediction.

4. The distributed power supply system according to claim 3, wherein the output control device outputs an error detection signal when the prediction error of the load prediction is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

5. The distributed power system according to claim 1, wherein the power generation forecasting device communicates with the demand power planning setting device and outputs the power generation forecasting information to the demand power planning setting device, thereby enabling the demand power planning setting device to pre-plan the demand power required for the load based on the power generation forecasting information.

6. The distributed power system according to claim 1, wherein the power generation forecasting device communicates with the output control device and outputs the power generation forecasting information to the output control device, thereby enabling the output control device to plan the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecasting information.

7. A control method for a self-consumption type distributed power system that suppresses the purchase of electricity from the power grid to a load by converting power supplied from a distributed power source into AC power corresponding to the load using a power conversion device, and supplying the converted AC power to the load, A power generation prediction model that stores weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed in association with the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source, thereby enabling the prediction of the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source based on weather forecasts for the location where the distributed power source is installed; and a process of predicting the magnitude of the power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time, based on weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the distributed power source is installed, and generating power generation prediction information including the predicted value of the magnitude of the power generated. Based on the power generation forecast information, the process involves setting a planned value for the power demand required by the load, thereby generating power demand plan value information that represents the set planned value for power demand. A process of controlling the operation of the power conversion device based on information on the magnitude of power at the connection point with the power grid, information on the current magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source, and information on the planned demand power value, A method for controlling a distributed power system, including [a specific component].

8. An output control device used in a self-consumption type distributed power system that converts power supplied from distributed power sources into AC power corresponding to the load using a power conversion device, and supplies the converted AC power to the load, thereby suppressing the purchase of electricity from the power grid to the load, A storage unit stores a power generation prediction model that enables the prediction of the amount of power generated by the distributed power source based on the weather forecast for the location where the distributed power source is installed, by associating and storing weather information at the location where the distributed power source is installed with the amount of power generated by the distributed power source. A communication unit that receives weather forecast data representing the weather forecast results for the location where the distributed power supply is installed, A control unit that, based on the weather forecast data and the power generation forecast model, predicts the magnitude of power generated by the distributed power source after a predetermined time, and outputs power generation forecast information including the predicted value of the magnitude of power generated, thereby enabling the planning of the power demand required by the load in advance based on the power generation forecast information. An output control device equipped with the following features.

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