Management device, management method, and program

Abstract

This calculates a raw material procurement plan that can reduce the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value at a predetermined level. [Solution] The control device 200 is a control device 200 for managing a synthesis gas production facility 100 that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, and the control device 200 has one or more processors 210a and one or more memories 210b connected to the processor 210a, and the processor 210a includes performing a parameter acquisition process to acquire parameters that include at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated when procuring raw materials, set for each of a plurality of CI values ​​which have different values ​​from each other, and performing a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of producing synthesis gas based on the parameters.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management device, a management method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to prevent global warming, reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) has been demanded. Therefore, clean energy that does not emit greenhouse gases or emits less greenhouse gases has attracted attention. Examples of clean energy include methane and ammonia.

[0003] As a technique for producing methane as clean energy, for example, in Patent Document 1, a technique for recovering carbon dioxide from the exhaust gas of a thermal power plant and producing hydrocarbons from the recovered carbon dioxide and hydrogen has attracted attention.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As described above, in the technology for producing synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, the amount of carbon dioxide emissions (CFP: Carbon Footprint of Products) generated during the production of raw materials, the cost of raw materials, the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of raw materials, and the transportation cost of raw materials vary greatly depending on the type of power used. The type of power is, for example, power derived from renewable energy, power derived from fossil fuels, or power generated by nuclear power generation.

[0006] Therefore, there is a strong need for the development of technology to calculate raw material procurement plans that can reduce the cost of syngas production while maintaining carbon intensity (CI: Carbon Intensity, hereinafter referred to as CI value) below a predetermined value.

[0007] In light of these challenges, this disclosure aims to provide a control device, a control method, and a program that can calculate a raw material procurement plan that can reduce the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value at a predetermined value. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the control device of the present disclosure is a control device for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, the control device comprising one or more processors and one or more memories connected to the processors, wherein the processor includes a parameter acquisition process that acquires parameters including at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the procurement of raw materials, set for each of a plurality of CI values ​​which have different values ​​from each other, and a planning calculation process that calculates a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0009] Procurement costs may include electricity costs calculated based on the amount of electricity required to procure raw materials.

[0010] The synthesis gas production facility includes a raw material production device that manufactures raw materials, and the procurement cost may include the operating cost of the raw material production device.

[0011] The operating cost of the raw material production equipment may include the electricity cost, which is calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment.

[0012] Procurement costs may include transportation costs required for transporting raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility.

[0013] Procurement costs may include the cost of transported raw materials.

[0014] Carbon dioxide emissions may include carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity required to procure raw materials.

[0015] The synthesis gas production facility includes a raw material production device that manufactures raw materials, and the carbon dioxide emissions may include the carbon dioxide emissions generated when the raw material production device is in operation.

[0016] The carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment may include carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment.

[0017] Carbon dioxide emissions may include carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility.

[0018] A synthesis gas production facility has a synthesis gas production apparatus that produces synthesis gas, and the parameters may further include the operating cost of the synthesis gas production apparatus and the carbon dioxide emissions generated when the synthesis gas production apparatus is in operation.

[0019] The processor may also perform a validation process to check the soundness of the parameters obtained during the parameter acquisition process.

[0020] To solve the above problems, the management method of the present disclosure is a management method for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, and includes: performing a parameter acquisition process to obtain parameters that include at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, procurement costs required for procuring raw materials, and carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement, set for each of several CI values ​​which have different values ​​from each other; and performing a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0021] In order to solve the above problems, the program of the present disclosure is a program for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, causing a computer to execute a parameter acquisition process for acquiring parameters including at least a target value of the production amount of synthesis gas set for each of a plurality of CI values having different values from each other, a procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and an emission amount of carbon dioxide generated during the procurement of raw materials, and executing a plan calculation process for calculating a procurement plan of raw materials that minimizes the production cost of synthesis gas based on the parameters, so as to function as a processing unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to the present disclosure, a procurement plan of raw materials that can reduce the production cost of synthesis gas is calculated while maintaining the CI value at a predetermined value.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a synthesis gas production facility according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a synthesis gas production apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a management apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a control apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of parameters acquired by the management apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of a plan creation process according to the embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific numerical values ​​shown in the embodiments are merely examples for the purpose of facilitating understanding and do not limit this disclosure unless otherwise specified. In this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same function or configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanations, and elements not directly related to this disclosure are omitted from the illustrations.

[0025] [1. Synthesis gas production facilities] First, with reference to Figures 1 and 2, an overview of the synthesis gas production facility 100 to which the control device 200 according to the embodiment of this disclosure is applied will be described. The synthesis gas production facility 100 produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials. The synthesis gas is, for example, a hydrocarbon such as methane or olefin, or ammonia. In this embodiment, the case in which the synthesis gas production facility 100 produces methane as synthesis gas will be given as an example.

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the synthesis gas production equipment 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the synthesis gas production equipment 100 according to this embodiment includes, for example, a hydrogen supply device 110, a carbon dioxide supply device 120, a synthesis gas production device 140, and an integration device 160. The hydrogen supply device 110 supplies hydrogen (H2) to the synthesis gas production device 140. The carbon dioxide supply device 120 supplies carbon dioxide (CO2) to the synthesis gas production device 140.

[0027] [1.1. Hydrogen supply equipment] As shown in Figure 1, the hydrogen supply device 110 according to this embodiment includes, for example, a hydrogen storage device 112, a water electrolysis device 114, and a hydrogen buffer tank 116.

[0028] The hydrogen storage device 112 stores compressed hydrogen. The hydrogen storage device 112 includes, for example, a hydrogen container. The hydrogen storage device 112 may be installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100, or it may be transported from a supplier along with the compressed hydrogen. The hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 112 may be, for example, hydrogen produced as a by-product at a steel mill or the like.

[0029] The water electrolyzer 114 produces hydrogen by electrolyzing water. The water electrolyzer 114 functions as a raw material production device that produces hydrogen as a raw material for synthesis gas. For example, tap water is supplied to the water electrolyzer 114. Electricity is also supplied to the water electrolyzer 114. The operating data of the water electrolyzer 114 is sent to the integration device 160, which will be described later, for example, every minute.

[0030] The hydrogen buffer tank 116 temporarily stores hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen storage device 112 and / or hydrogen supplied from the water electrolysis device 114. The hydrogen (gas) stored in the hydrogen buffer tank 116 is supplied to the synthesis gas production device 140.

[0031] [1.2. Carbon Dioxide Supply System] As shown in Figure 1, the carbon dioxide supply device 120 includes, for example, a CO2 storage device 122, a vaporizer 124, a CO2 recovery device 126, an intake tank 128, a compressor 130, a cooler 132, and a carbon dioxide buffer tank 134.

[0032] The CO2 storage device 122 stores liquefied carbon dioxide. The CO2 storage device 122 includes, for example, cylinders and cradles. The CO2 storage device 122 may be installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100, or it may be transported from a supplier along with the liquefied carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide stored in the CO2 storage device 122 may be, for example, carbon dioxide derived from biogas.

[0033] The vaporizer 124 vaporizes the liquefied carbon dioxide stored in the CO2 storage device 122. The vaporizer 124 includes, for example, a heat exchanger.

[0034] The CO2 recovery unit 126 recovers carbon dioxide from a mixed gas containing carbon dioxide. The mixed gas is, for example, exhaust gas from a boiler. The boiler is, for example, located in a synthesis gas production facility 100. Operating data from the CO2 recovery unit 126 is sent to the integration unit 160, for example, every minute. The intake tank 128 temporarily stores the carbon dioxide recovered by the CO2 recovery unit 126. The compressor 130 compresses the carbon dioxide stored in the intake tank 128. The cooler 132 cools the carbon dioxide compressed by the compressor 130. The cooler 132 includes, for example, a heat exchanger. The CO2 recovery unit 126, along with one or more selected from the intake tank 128, compressor 130, and cooler 132, functions as a raw material production device that produces carbon dioxide as a raw material for synthesis gas.

[0035] The carbon dioxide buffer tank 134 temporarily stores carbon dioxide supplied from the vaporizer 124 and / or from the cooler 132. The carbon dioxide (gas) stored in the carbon dioxide buffer tank 134 is supplied to the synthesis gas production unit 140.

[0036] [1.3. Synthesis gas production equipment] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 according to this embodiment includes, for example, a methanation device 142, a synthesis gas buffer tank 144, a compressor 146, a heat exchanger 148, a cooler 150, a gas-liquid separator 152, a storage tank 154, a first sensor 156, and a second sensor 158.

[0037] The methanation unit 142 produces methane by reacting hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen supply unit 110 with carbon dioxide supplied from the carbon dioxide supply unit 120. The methanation unit 142 has, for example, a catalyst that promotes the methanation reaction from hydrogen and carbon dioxide to methane.

[0038] The synthesis gas buffer tank 144 temporarily stores the post-reaction gas sent from the methanation unit 142. The compressor 146 compresses the post-reaction gas stored in the synthesis gas buffer tank 144. The heat exchanger 148 exchanges heat between the post-reaction gas compressed by the compressor 146 and the post-reaction gas sent from the gas-liquid separator 152, which will be described later. The cooler 150 cools the post-reaction gas sent from the heat exchanger 148. The cooler 150 cools the post-reaction gas to, for example, below the dew point of water. The gas-liquid separator 152 separates the post-reaction gas into gas and liquid. After the water has been removed by the gas-liquid separator 152, the post-reaction gas undergoes heat exchange by the heat exchanger 148 and is then sent to the storage tank 154. The storage tank 154 temporarily stores the post-reaction gas. The first sensor 156 detects the concentration of methane contained in the post-reaction gas sent to the storage tank 154. The second sensor 158 detects the flow rate of the post-reaction gas sent to the storage tank 154.

[0039] Furthermore, the operating data of the synthesis gas production unit 140 is sent to the integration unit 160, for example, every minute.

[0040] [1.4. Integrated Device] Returning to Figure 1, the integrated device 160 includes a control device 162 and a user interface 164.

[0041] The control device 162 includes one or more processors 162a and one or more memories 162b connected to the processors 162a. The processors 162a include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memories 162b include, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). ROM is a memory element that stores programs and arithmetic parameters used by the CPU. RAM is a memory element that temporarily stores data such as variables and parameters used in processing executed by the CPU.

[0042] The user interface 164 accepts user input. The user interface 164 also outputs data. The user is, for example, a person responsible for procurement management, equipment management, power management, or production management of the synthesis gas production facility 100. The user interface 164 includes, for example, input and output devices. The input device consists of, for example, a keyboard, touch panel, pointing device, microphone, etc. The output device includes, for example, a display device and / or speaker. The display device consists of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the synthesis gas production facility 100 may include a power generation device and / or storage battery that generates electricity using renewable energy. The synthesis gas production facility 100 may also include a cogeneration system. Additionally, the synthesis gas production facility 100 may purchase commercial power from the power grid. Furthermore, the synthesis gas production facility 100 may purchase electricity from a microgrid.

[0044] [2. Management device] Next, an overview of the management device 200 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the management device 200 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control device 210 according to this embodiment.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, the management device 200 according to this embodiment includes a control device 210 and a user interface 212.

[0046] The control device 210 includes one or more processors 210a and one or more memories 210b connected to the processors 210a. The processors 210a include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memories 210b include, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). ROM is a memory element that stores programs and arithmetic parameters used by the CPU. RAM is a memory element that temporarily stores data such as variables and parameters used in processing executed by the CPU.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4, the control device 210 includes a processing unit 220, a first storage unit 222, and a second storage unit 224.

[0048] The processing unit 220 performs, for example, parameter acquisition processing, operation data acquisition processing, power forecast data acquisition processing, database creation processing, and plan creation processing (plan calculation processing). Note that the various processes, including those performed by the processing unit 220, may be executed by the processor 210a. Specifically, the various processes are executed by the processor 210a executing a program stored in memory 210b. The functions of the first storage unit 222 and the second storage unit 224 are realized by memory 210b. However, the functions of the control device 210 may be divided among multiple devices, or multiple functions may be realized by a single device. Details of the parameter acquisition processing, operation data acquisition processing, power forecast data acquisition processing, database creation processing, and plan creation processing will be described later.

[0049] The first storage unit 222 stores, for example, a database for cost calculation, a database for CFP calculation, a raw material ordering and transportation plan, an operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114, an operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140, a power procurement plan, and an operation plan for the CO2 recovery unit 126. The operation plan for the CO2 recovery unit 126 includes, for example, the operating timing of the CO2 recovery unit 126. The second storage unit 224 stores, for example, operation data, which will be described later.

[0050] The user interface 212 accepts user input. The user interface 212 also outputs data. The user is, for example, a person responsible for procurement management, equipment management, power management, or production management of the synthesis gas production facility 100. The user interface 212 includes, for example, input and output devices. The input device consists of, for example, a keyboard, touch panel, pointing device, microphone, etc. The output device includes, for example, a display device and / or speaker. The display device consists of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, etc.

[0051] [3. Processes executed by the management device] Next, the processes performed by the management device 200 according to this embodiment will be described. The management device 200 according to this embodiment performs parameter acquisition processing, operation data acquisition processing, power forecast data acquisition processing, database creation processing, and plan creation processing.

[0052] [3.1. Parameter acquisition process] The processing unit 220 of the control device 210 executes a parameter acquisition process to acquire parameters.

[0053] Figure 5 shows an example of parameters acquired by the control device 200 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the parameters include at least the target value of the synthesis gas production amount, the procurement cost required for raw material procurement, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement.

[0054] [3.1.1. Target values ​​for synthesis gas production] The target value for synthesis gas production is the target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced by the synthesis gas production facility 100. For example, the target value for synthesis gas production is a monthly target value. In this embodiment, the target value for synthesis gas production is set for each of several CI values, each with a different value. The CI (Carbon Intensity) value is the value obtained by dividing the carbon dioxide emissions (CFP: Carbon Footprint of Products) generated from the production of raw materials to the production of synthesis gas (Well to Gate) by the calorific value of the synthesis gas. For example, when the synthesis gas production facility 100 produces low-carbon grade methane with a CI value of 30 or less and standard-carbon grade methane with a CI value of 50 or less, the target values ​​for the production of low-carbon grade methane and the target values ​​for the production of standard-carbon grade methane are determined by the requirements of one or more businesses purchasing methane from the synthesis gas production facility 100. The determined target values ​​for methane production are then entered, for example, by the production management person of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 obtains the target value for the amount of methane produced based on the input.

[0055] [3.1.2. Electricity Contract] The processing unit 220 may obtain the power contract for the synthesis gas production facility 100 as a parameter. The power contract includes the electricity rate, the baseline emission factor, the adjusted baseline emission factor, and the transaction fee. The power contract for the synthesis gas production facility 100 is entered, for example, by the person in charge of power management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 obtains the entered power contract.

[0056] [3.1.3. Procurement costs required for procuring raw materials] The procurement costs required for procuring raw materials include, for example, the operating costs of the raw material production equipment, the transportation costs required for transporting the raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100, and the cost of the transported raw materials.

[0057] The operating costs of the raw material production equipment include, for example, the operating costs of the water electrolyzer 114, the CO2 recovery unit 126, the compressor 130, and the cooler 132. The operating costs of the raw material production equipment may also include, for example, the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment. Specifically, the amount of electricity consumed by the water electrolyzer 114, the CO2 recovery unit 126, the compressor 130, and the cooler 132, the remaining battery charge, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generator are input to the management unit 200 by the control device 162 of the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Alternatively, the amount of electricity consumed by the water electrolyzer 114, the CO2 recovery unit 126, the compressor 130, and the cooler 132, the remaining battery charge, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generator may be input by the equipment management personnel of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. Then, the processing unit 220 calculates the operating cost of the raw material production equipment based on these parameters and the power contract mentioned above.

[0058] Furthermore, the operating costs of the raw material production equipment may include operating costs other than electricity costs, such as the costs of using water, nitrogen, compressed air, etc. The costs of using water, nitrogen, compressed air, etc., are also entered through the user interface 212 by the equipment management person of the synthesis gas production equipment 100.

[0059] The transportation costs required for transporting raw materials from the supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100 are entered by the procurement management person of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. Specifically, for example, the cost of transportation equipment, the distance from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100, and the transportation cost per unit distance are entered by the procurement management person of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 then calculates the transportation costs based on these. The processing unit 220 also obtains the cost of the transported raw materials (e.g., unit price) in response to the input from the procurement management person of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Specifically, the processing unit 220 obtains the cost of the transported hydrogen and the cost of the transported carbon dioxide. The processing unit 220 may also obtain the purity of the transported raw materials as a parameter in response to the input from the procurement management person of the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0060] Furthermore, the procurement costs required for raw material procurement may include, in addition to the above-mentioned operating costs, transportation costs, and the cost of the transported raw materials, or alternatively, costs related to consumables for the raw material production equipment. Consumables for the raw material production equipment include, for example, consumables for the water electrolysis unit 114, consumables for the CO2 recovery unit 126, consumables for the compressor 130, and consumables for the cooler 132.

[0061] [3.1.4. Carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement] Carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement include, for example, carbon dioxide emissions generated during the operation of raw material production equipment and carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility.

[0062] The carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment include, for example, the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the water electrolyzer 114, the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the CO2 recovery unit 126, the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the compressor 130, and the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the cooler 132. Furthermore, the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment may also include, for example, carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment. Specifically, the amount of electricity consumed by the water electrolyzer 114, the CO2 recovery unit 126, the compressor 130, and the cooler 132, the remaining battery charge, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generator are input to the control unit 200 by the control device 162 of the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Furthermore, the amount of electricity consumed by the water electrolysis device 114, the CO2 recovery device 126, the compressor 130, and the cooler 132, the remaining capacity of the storage battery, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generation device may be input through the user interface 212 by the person in charge of equipment management of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Then, the processing unit 220 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production device, based on these parameters and the above-mentioned power contract.

[0063] Furthermore, the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment may include emissions other than those calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment, such as carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of fuel consumed to operate the steam source used for raw material production. The carbon dioxide emissions related to this steam source are also input to the management device 200 by the control device 162 of the integration device 160 of the synthesis gas production equipment 100. Furthermore, the carbon dioxide emissions related to the steam source may also be input by the equipment management person of the synthesis gas production equipment 100 through the user interface 212. The steam is used, for example, as a heat source for a hydrogen generator or a CO2 recovery device 126.

[0064] The amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of raw materials from the supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100 is entered by the procurement management personnel of the synthesis gas production facility 100 via the user interface 212. Specifically, for example, the distance from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions per unit distance are entered by the procurement management personnel of the synthesis gas production facility 100 via the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 then calculates the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during transportation based on this information.

[0065] [3.1.5. Operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions of synthesis gas production plants] Furthermore, the parameters obtained by the processing unit 220 may include the operating cost of the synthesis gas production unit 140 and the amount of carbon dioxide emitted when the synthesis gas production unit 140 is in operation.

[0066] The operating cost of the synthesis gas production unit 140 may include, for example, the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140. Specifically, the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140, the remaining battery capacity, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generation unit are input to the management unit 200 by the control device 162 of the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Alternatively, the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140, the remaining battery capacity, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generation unit may be input by the facility management staff of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 then calculates the operating cost of the synthesis gas production unit 140 based on these parameters and the electricity contract described above. The operating cost of the synthesis gas production unit 140 may also include operating costs other than electricity costs, such as the costs of using water, nitrogen, compressed air, etc. The costs of using water, nitrogen, compressed air, etc., are also input by the facility management staff of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212.

[0067] The carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the synthesis gas production unit 140 may include, for example, carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140. Specifically, the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140, the remaining battery charge, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generator are input to the management unit 200 by the control device 162 of the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Alternatively, the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140, the remaining battery charge, and the amount of electricity generated by the power generator may be input by the person in charge of facility management of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 then calculates the amount of carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the synthesis gas production unit 140, based on these parameters and the above-mentioned electricity contract.

[0068] [3.1.6. Other Parameters] Furthermore, the parameters acquired by the processing unit 220 may include the amount of raw materials stored. Specifically, the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit 112 and the amount of carbon dioxide stored in the CO2 storage unit 122 are input to the management unit 200 by the control device 162 of the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. The amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit 112 and the amount of carbon dioxide stored in the CO2 storage unit 122 are measured by measuring devices (not shown). Alternatively, the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit 112 and the amount of carbon dioxide stored in the CO2 storage unit 122 may be input by the equipment management personnel of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The processing unit 220 then acquires the input amount of raw materials stored.

[0069] [3.2. Operation Data Acquisition Process] The processing unit 220 may also perform an operation data acquisition process to acquire operation data for each device of the synthesis gas production facility 100, which is output from the integrated device 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. The processing unit 220 may perform the operation data acquisition process, for example, every minute.

[0070] [3.3. Power forecast data acquisition process] The processing unit 220 may also perform power forecast data acquisition processing to obtain predicted power prices in the power spot market (wholesale power market) from an external server. For example, the processing unit 220 may perform power forecast data acquisition processing every day.

[0071] [3.4. Database creation process] The processing unit 220 may store the acquired parameters in memory 210b and execute a database creation process to create a database. For example, the processing unit 220 stores the procurement costs and the operating costs of the synthesis gas production plant 140 in the first storage unit 222 and creates a database for cost calculation. The processing unit 220 also stores the carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement and the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the synthesis gas production plant 140 in the first storage unit 222 and creates a database for CFP calculation. Furthermore, the processing unit 220 stores the operating plan of the CO2 recovery device 126, which is entered through the user interface 212 by the person in charge of equipment management of the synthesis gas production facility 100, in the first storage unit 222.

[0072] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 stores the operating data of each device acquired in the operating data acquisition process in the second storage unit 224, and creates an operating data database.

[0073] [3.5. Plan Creation Process] Next, the plan creation process according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the plan creation process according to this embodiment.

[0074] [3.5.1. Constraint Specification Process (Step S110)] The processing unit 220 may execute a constraint specification processing step S110, which specifies constraint conditions to be used in the calculation processing step S180 described later.

[0075] For example, the processing unit 220 calculates a target value for the amount of methane to be produced by a predetermined period, a target value for the CI value within a predetermined period, and a target value for the carbon dioxide emission coefficient within a predetermined period, based on the target values ​​for the amount of methane to be produced for each of the multiple CI values ​​obtained in the parameter acquisition process described above. The processing unit 220 then specifies the target value for the amount of methane to be produced by a predetermined period, the target value for the CI value within a predetermined period, and the target value for the carbon dioxide emission coefficient within a predetermined period as constraints. The predetermined period is, for example, a period shorter than one month, such as one week or one day.

[0076] For example, the processing unit 220 obtains the target value for monthly methane production obtained in the parameter acquisition process and calculates the target value for methane production for a predetermined period based on this. The processing unit 220 may also refer to the operating data of the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 stored in the second storage unit 224 and, if there is a discrepancy between the actual methane production value up to the previous day and the target value for methane production up to the previous day, adjust the target value for methane production for the predetermined period so that the monthly target value for methane production can be achieved. When adjusting the target value for methane production, the processing unit 220 may also take into account the values ​​detected by the first sensor 156 and the second sensor 158. Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may also confirm that the target value for monthly methane production is within the output capacity of the synthesis gas production equipment 100.

[0077] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may specify raw material ordering conditions as constraints. These raw material ordering conditions are entered, for example, by the person in charge of procurement management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The raw material ordering conditions include, for example, the amount of raw materials that can be supplied during a predetermined period, the minimum order unit for raw materials, the amount of raw materials that can be ordered at one time, and the lead time from ordering to delivery of raw materials. The predetermined period is, for example, one month.

[0078] The processing unit 220 may specify the conditions of the transport equipment as constraints. The conditions of the transport equipment are entered, for example, by the person in charge of procurement management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The conditions of the transport equipment include, for example, the load weight (or load capacity) of the transport equipment, the number of transport equipment units, the amount of raw materials that can be transported at one time, and the lead time from the arrangement of the transport equipment to the actual transport.

[0079] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may specify conditions for the raw material storage equipment as constraints. These conditions are input, for example, by the person in charge of equipment management for the synthesis gas production facility 100, or by the plant manufacturer of the synthesis gas production facility 100, through the user interface 212. These conditions include, for example, the maximum and minimum capacities of the hydrogen storage unit 112, and the maximum and minimum capacities of the CO2 storage unit 122.

[0080] The processing unit 220 may specify the output conditions of each device installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100 as constraints. The output conditions of each device installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100 are input, for example, by the person in charge of facility management of the synthesis gas production facility 100 or the plant manufacturer of the synthesis gas production facility 100, via the user interface 212. The output conditions of each device include, for example, the maximum operating point of each device, the turndown (by what percentage the operating command output to the device can be reduced before operation), and a limit on the rate of change of the operating command output to the device.

[0081] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may specify the conditions for electricity that can be procured by the synthesis gas production facility 100 (electricity procurement conditions) as constraints. The electricity procurement conditions are input, for example, by the person in charge of electricity management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212. The electricity procurement conditions include, for example, the maximum power generation capacity, minimum power generation capacity, battery capacity, and the maximum and minimum electricity amounts that can be procured from the electricity spot market.

[0082] [3.5.2. Parameter specification process (Step S120)] The processing unit 220 executes a parameter specification processing step S120, which specifies parameters to be used in the calculation processing step S180 described later. For example, the processing unit 220 refers to various parameters stored in the first storage unit 222 and specifies the parameters to be used in the calculation processing step S180.

[0083] [3.5.3. Predicted Value Specification Processing (Step S130)] The processing unit 220 may execute a prediction value specification processing step S130 in which it specifies a predicted value for electricity prices. For example, the processing unit 220 specifies a predicted value for electricity prices (contract unit price data for each season and time of day) by referring to the electricity contract for the synthesis gas production facility 100 obtained in the parameter acquisition process described above. Alternatively, the processing unit 220 may specify a predicted value for electricity prices in the electricity spot market obtained in the electricity prediction data acquisition process described above.

[0084] [3.5.4. Raw material and power procurement data acquisition process (step S140)] The processing unit 220 may also execute a raw material and power procurement data acquisition step S140 to acquire raw material procurement data and power procurement data. For example, as raw material procurement data, the amount of raw materials received and the date and time of receipt are entered through the user interface 212 by the person in charge of procurement management for the synthesis gas production facility 100. Then, the processing unit 220 acquires the raw material procurement data.

[0085] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may acquire the remaining amount of raw materials in the raw material and power procurement data acquisition processing step S140. For example, the processing unit 220 acquires the remaining amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen buffer tank 116 and the remaining amount of carbon dioxide stored in the carbon dioxide buffer tank 134 from the control device 162 of the integrated device 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. Alternatively, the processing unit 220 may acquire the remaining amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen buffer tank 116 and the remaining amount of carbon dioxide stored in the carbon dioxide buffer tank 134, which are input through the user interface 212 by the person in charge of facility management of the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, as power procurement data, the actual power contracts bid on from the power spot market (for example, power contracts for the following day) are input through the user interface 212 by the power management personnel of the synthesis gas production facility 100. The processing unit 220 then acquires the power procurement data.

[0087] [3.5.5. Operation Data Extraction Process (Step S150)] The processing unit 220 may also perform an operation data extraction processing step S150 to extract operation data for each device of the synthesis gas production facility 100 from the second storage unit 224. For example, the processing unit 220 extracts operation data for the water electrolyzer 114, the CO2 recovery device 126, and the synthesis gas production device 140.

[0088] [3.5.6. Execution Command Reception Processing (Step S160)] The processing unit 220 may also execute an execution command reception processing step S160, which receives execution commands entered through the user interface 212 from personnel responsible for procurement management, equipment management, power management, or production management of the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0089] [3.5.7. Determination Process (Step S170)] The processing unit 220 may execute a determination process step S170 to determine whether the necessary constraints, various parameters, predicted power price, raw material procurement data, power procurement data, and operation data for the calculation processing step S180 have been set. If the processing unit 220 determines that all the data necessary for the calculation processing step S180 has been set (YES in step S170), it proceeds to the calculation processing step S180. If the processing unit 220 determines that the necessary data has not been set for the calculation processing step S180 (NO in step S170), it waits until all the necessary data for the calculation processing step S180 has been set.

[0090] [3.5.8. Calculation Processing (Step S180)] The processing unit 220 executes a calculation processing step S180 to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of methane production based on the various parameters specified in the parameter specification processing step S120. In addition, in the calculation processing step S180, the processing unit 220 may further calculate an operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140 and a second power procurement plan that minimizes the cost of methane production.

[0091] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may calculate a raw material procurement plan, an operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140, and a second power procurement plan based on the parameters, the constraints specified in the constraint condition specification processing step S110, the predicted value of electricity price specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130, the raw materials, the raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data acquired in the electricity procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the operation data extracted in the operation data extraction processing step S150, and the operation plan for the CO2 recovery plant 126. For example, the processing unit 220 uses the parameters, the predicted value of electricity price, the raw material procurement data, the electricity procurement data, the operation data, and the operation plan for the CO2 recovery plant 126 to find a combination of variables (raw material procurement plan, operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140, and second power procurement plan) that satisfies the constraints and minimizes the methane production cost as an objective function, by solving an optimization problem.

[0092] When an optimization problem is formulated as a linear programming problem, a solver implementing algorithms such as the simplex method or interior-point method may be used to find the solution. Similarly, when an optimization problem is formulated as a mixed-integer programming problem, a solver implementing algorithms such as the branch-and-bound method may be used to find the solution. When an optimization problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming problem, a solver implementing algorithms such as successive quadratic programming, genetic algorithms, or particle swarm optimization may be used to find the solution. Alternatively, a machine learning model that has been pre-trained on the optimization problem and its solution results may be constructed, and an approximate solution may be found using this model.

[0093] The raw material procurement plan includes the ordering and transportation plan for the raw materials to be purchased, the operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114, and the first power procurement plan. The raw material ordering and transportation plan includes, for example, the timing of raw material procurement, the cost of raw materials, and the quantity of raw materials to be procured. The operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114 includes the timing of operation of the water electrolysis unit 114. The first power procurement plan is a plan for procuring the electricity necessary to operate the water electrolysis unit 114 in accordance with the operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114. The operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140 includes the timing of operation of the synthesis gas production unit 140. The second power procurement plan is a plan for procuring the electricity necessary to operate the synthesis gas production unit 140 in accordance with the operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140. Hereinafter, the first power procurement plan and the second power procurement plan will be collectively referred to simply as the power procurement plan.

[0094] [3.5.9. Database creation process (Step S190)] The processing unit 220 may store the raw material ordering and transportation plan, the operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114, the operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140, and the power procurement plan calculated in the calculation processing step S180 in the first storage unit 222, and execute a database creation processing step S190 to create a database.

[0095] For example, the person in charge of procurement management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 refers to the raw material ordering and transportation plan and places orders for raw materials, prepares for raw material supply, arranges transportation equipment, receives the materials from the supplier, fills the transportation equipment with raw materials on the supplier's premises, and accepts the raw materials at the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0096] For example, the person in charge of equipment management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 inputs the operating plans for the water electrolyzer 114 and the synthesis gas production facility 140 into the integration unit 160 of the synthesis gas production facility 100. As a result, the integration unit 160 controls the operation of the water electrolyzer 114 in accordance with the operating plan for the water electrolyzer 114. The integration unit 160 also controls the operation of the synthesis gas production facility 140 in accordance with the operating plan for the synthesis gas production facility 140.

[0097] For example, the person in charge of power management for the synthesis gas production facility 100 procures electricity by referring to the power procurement plan.

[0098] [4. Specific examples of the planning process] Next, we will explain specific examples of the planning process for creating raw material ordering and transportation plans, power procurement plans, operation plans for the synthesis gas production plant 140, and operation plans for the water electrolysis plant 114.

[0099] [4.1. Processes executed monthly] The production manager of the synthesis gas production facility 100 determines the monthly target value for methane production based on the requirements of one or more businesses that purchase methane from the synthesis gas production facility 100. The monthly target value for methane production is entered by the production manager of the synthesis gas production facility 100 through the user interface 212.

[0100] The processing unit 220 then obtains the target value for the monthly methane production and calculates the target value for the weekly methane production based on this. For example, the processing unit 220 calculates the target value for the weekly methane production by dividing the target value for the monthly methane production by 4. The target values ​​for the monthly methane production and the target values ​​for the weekly methane production are stored in the first storage unit 222.

[0101] [4.2. Processes executed weekly] The planning process for raw material ordering and transportation plans, power procurement plans, synthesis gas production equipment 140 operation plans, and water electrolysis equipment 114 operation plans is performed once a week, for example on weekends. The processing unit 220 then calculates raw material ordering and transportation plans, power procurement plans, synthesis gas production equipment 140 operation plans, and water electrolysis equipment 114 operation plans for the following week and beyond, for example, for four weeks.

[0102] In the constraint specification processing step S110, the processing unit 220 extracts a target value for the amount of methane produced per week from the first storage unit 222 as a constraint. The processing unit 220 also refers to the operation data of the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 stored in the second storage unit 224, and if there is a discrepancy between the actual amount of methane produced up to the previous day and the target value for the amount of methane produced up to the previous day, it corrects the target value for the amount of methane produced per week so that the target value for the amount of methane produced per month can be achieved.

[0103] Furthermore, in the constraint specification processing step S110, the processing unit 220 specifies the following constraints: a target value for the CI value for one week, a target value for the carbon dioxide emission coefficient for one week, raw material ordering conditions, transportation equipment conditions, raw material storage equipment conditions, output conditions for each device installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100, and power procurement conditions.

[0104] In the parameter specification processing step S120, the processing unit 220 specifies various parameters stored in the first storage unit 222. In the prediction value specification processing step S130, the processing unit 220 specifies a predicted value for electricity price. In the raw material and electricity procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the processing unit 220 acquires raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data. In the operation data extraction processing step S150, the processing unit 220 extracts operation data for each device of the synthesis gas production facility 100 from the second storage unit 224.

[0105] Then, when calculating the raw material ordering and transportation plan, the processing unit 220, in the calculation processing step S180, uses the various parameters specified in the parameter specification processing step S120, the predicted value of electricity price specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130, the raw materials, the raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data acquired in the electricity procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the operation data extracted in the operation data extraction processing step S150, and the operation plan of the CO2 recovery device 126 to find a raw material ordering and transportation plan that satisfies the constraints specified in the constraints specification processing step S110 and minimizes the cost of methane production, by solving an optimization problem.

[0106] Furthermore, if there is a discrepancy between the actual raw material receipts up to the previous day in the raw material procurement data acquired in the raw material procurement data acquisition step S140 and the previous values ​​of the raw material ordering and transportation plan, the processing unit 220 may adjust the raw material ordering and transportation plan so as to achieve the target value for the monthly methane production volume.

[0107] Furthermore, when calculating the power procurement plan, the processing unit 220, similar to the calculation of the raw material ordering and transportation plan, uses the various parameters specified in the parameter specification processing step S120, the predicted value of electricity price specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130, the raw materials, the raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data acquired in the power procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the operation data extracted in the operation data extraction processing step S150, and the operation plan of the CO2 recovery device 126 to find a power procurement plan that satisfies the constraints specified in the constraints specification processing step S110 and minimizes the cost of methane production by solving an optimization problem in the calculation processing step S180.

[0108] Furthermore, when calculating the operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140, the processing unit 220, similar to the calculation of the raw material ordering and transportation plan, uses the various parameters specified in the parameter specification processing step S120, the predicted value of electricity price specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130, the raw materials, the raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data acquired in the electricity procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the operation data extracted in the operation data extraction processing step S150, and the operation plan of the CO2 recovery plant 126 to find an operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140 that satisfies the constraints specified in the constraint specification processing step S110 and minimizes the cost of methane production, by solving an optimization problem in the calculation processing step S180.

[0109] Furthermore, when calculating the operation plan for the water electrolysis apparatus 114, the processing unit 220, similar to the calculation of the raw material ordering and transportation plan, uses the various parameters specified in the parameter specification processing step S120, the predicted value of electricity price specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130, the raw materials, the raw material procurement data and electricity procurement data acquired in the electricity procurement data acquisition processing step S140, the operation data extracted in the operation data extraction processing step S150, and the operation plan of the CO2 recovery device 126 to find an operation plan for the water electrolysis apparatus 114 that satisfies the constraints specified in the constraint specification processing step S110 and minimizes the cost of methane production, by solving an optimization problem in the calculation processing step S180.

[0110] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may calculate the planned production cost of methane, the planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, and the planned CFP of methane production based on the calculated raw material ordering and transportation plan, power procurement plan, operation plan of the synthesis gas production plant 140, operation plan of the water electrolysis plant 114, and operation plan of the extracted CO2 recovery plant 126. The processing unit 220 may also calculate the CI value of methane based on the sum of the calculated planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, and the planned CFP of methane production, and the values ​​detected by the first sensor 156 and the second sensor 158.

[0111] Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the raw material ordering and transportation plan, the power procurement plan, the operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140, the operation plan for the water electrolysis plant 114, and the operation plan for the CO2 recovery plant 126 in the first storage unit 222. The processing unit 220 also stores the planned production cost of methane, the planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, the planned CFP of methane production, and the CI value of methane in the first storage unit 222.

[0112] [4.3. The first process that is executed every day] The processing unit 220 performs a first process to update the power procurement plan, the operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140, and the operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114 for the following day and beyond, for example, once a day. The processing unit 220 calculates the power procurement plan, the operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140, and the operation plan for the water electrolysis unit 114 for 14 days, from the following day until the following weekend.

[0113] When updating the power procurement plan, the processing unit 220, in the calculation processing step S180, creates a power procurement plan for the following day and beyond by referring to the operation plan of the water electrolyzer 114 and the operation plan of the synthesis gas production unit 140, based on the actual methane production values ​​up to the previous day and the target methane production amount up to the previous day obtained in the operation data extraction processing step S150, so as to achieve the weekly target methane production amount.

[0114] Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created power procurement plan in the first storage unit 222 and updates the power procurement plan. For example, when procuring power from the power spot market, the power for operating the synthesis gas production facility 100, including the water electrolyzer 114 and the synthesis gas production apparatus 140, is procured from the power generation equipment and storage battery installed in the synthesis gas production facility 100, as well as from the power spot market. The processing unit 220 updates the power procurement plan once a day before the opening of the power spot market. Also, when procuring power from a retail power provider, the processing unit 220 updates the power procurement plan once a day.

[0115] Furthermore, when updating the operation plan of the synthesis gas production plant 140, the processing unit 220, in calculation processing step S180, creates an operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140 so as to achieve the weekly target value for methane production, based on the actual methane production values ​​up to the previous day and the target value for methane production up to the previous day, which were obtained in the operation data extraction processing step S150. Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140 in the first storage unit 222 and updates the operation plan for the synthesis gas production plant 140.

[0116] Furthermore, when updating the operation plan of the water electrolyzer 114, the processing unit 220, in calculation processing step S180, creates an operation plan for the water electrolyzer 114 so as to achieve the weekly target value for methane production, based on the actual methane production values ​​up to the previous day and the target value for methane production up to the previous day, which were obtained in the operation data extraction processing step S150. Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created operation plan for the water electrolyzer 114 in the first storage unit 222 and updates the operation plan for the water electrolyzer 114.

[0117] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may calculate the planned production cost of methane, the planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, and the planned CFP of methane production based on the updated power procurement plan, the operation plan of the synthesis gas production unit 140, the operation plan of the water electrolysis unit 114, and the operation plan of the CO2 recovery unit 126. The processing unit 220 may also calculate the CI value of methane based on the sum of the calculated planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, and the planned CFP of methane production, and the values ​​detected by the first sensor 156 and the second sensor 158.

[0118] Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 updates the operation plans for the synthesis gas production unit 140, the water electrolysis unit 114, and the CO2 recovery unit 126 by storing them in the first storage unit 222. The processing unit 220 also updates the planned production cost of methane, the planned CFP of raw materials, the planned CFP of transportation, the planned CFP of methane production, and the CI value of methane by storing them in the first storage unit 222.

[0119] [4.4. Second process to be executed every day] The processing unit 220 performs a second process to update the power procurement plan for the day, for example, once a day. If the power is to be procured from the spot power market, for example, the processing unit 220 creates the power procurement plan for the day based on the predicted power price in the spot power market specified in the predicted value specification processing step S130. If the power is to be procured from a retail power provider, for example, the processing unit 220 refers to the power contract for the synthesis gas production facility 100 obtained in the predicted value specification processing step S130 and creates the power procurement plan for the day based on the contract unit price data for each season and time of day. Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created power procurement plan in the first storage unit 222 and updates the power procurement plan.

[0120] [4.5. Processes executed every 30 minutes] The processing unit 220 performs a process to update the operation plan of the synthesis gas production unit 140 and the operation plan of the water electrolysis unit 114, for example, once every 30 minutes.

[0121] The processing unit 220 creates an operation plan for the water electrolysis apparatus 114 based on the power procurement data acquired in the raw material and power procurement data acquisition processing step S140, for example. Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created operation plan for the water electrolysis apparatus 114 in the first storage unit 222 and updates the operation plan for the water electrolysis apparatus 114.

[0122] Furthermore, the processing unit 220, for example, refers to the operation plan of the water electrolysis unit 114, and if it is expected that the planned hydrogen flow rate produced by the water electrolysis unit 114 will exceed the hydrogen flow rate required in the operation plan of the synthesis gas production unit 140, it creates an operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140 so that the planned hydrogen flow rate produced by the water electrolysis unit 114 matches the hydrogen flow rate required in the operation plan of the synthesis gas production unit 140. Then, in the database creation processing step S190, the processing unit 220 stores the created operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140 in the first storage unit 222 and updates the operation plan for the synthesis gas production unit 140.

[0123] [5. Program] Furthermore, a program is provided for managing a synthesis gas production facility 100 that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, which causes a computer to function as a processing unit 220 that performs a parameter acquisition process to obtain parameters including at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, set for each of several CI values ​​with different values ​​from each other, the procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the procurement of raw materials, and then performs a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0124] [6. Summary] The management device 200 according to this embodiment has been described in detail above.

[0125] The control device 200 according to this embodiment is a control device 200 for managing a synthesis gas production facility 100 that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, and the control device 200 has one or more processors 210a and one or more memories 210b connected to the processor 210a, and the processor 210a includes performing a parameter acquisition process to acquire parameters that include at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated when procuring raw materials, set for each of a plurality of CI values ​​that have different values ​​from each other, and performing a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0126] As a result, the control device 200 according to this embodiment can calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value below a set value. Therefore, the control device 200 according to this embodiment can provide the user of the syngas production facility 100 with a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production. Thus, the control device 200 according to this embodiment can encourage the user of the syngas production facility 100 to procure raw materials that minimize the cost of syngas production.

[0127] The synthesis gas production facility 100 has a raw material production device for producing raw materials, and the procurement cost may include the operating cost of the raw material production device.

[0128] The operating costs of raw material production equipment account for a very large portion of procurement costs. Therefore, including the operating costs of raw material production equipment in the procurement cost allows for a more accurate calculation of raw material procurement plans.

[0129] The operating cost of the raw material production equipment may include the electricity cost, which is calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment.

[0130] The electricity cost of raw material production equipment accounts for a large portion of procurement costs. Therefore, including the electricity cost of raw material production equipment in the procurement cost allows for a more accurate calculation of raw material procurement plans.

[0131] Procurement costs may include transportation costs required for transporting raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0132] This allows for the efficient calculation of raw material procurement plans.

[0133] Procurement costs may include the cost of transported raw materials.

[0134] This allows for the efficient calculation of raw material procurement plans.

[0135] The synthesis gas production facility 100 has a raw material production device that produces raw materials, and the carbon dioxide emissions may include the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production device.

[0136] This allows for a more optimal calculation of raw material procurement plans that minimize synthesis gas production costs while maintaining the CI value below a set value.

[0137] The carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment may include carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment.

[0138] This allows for the appropriate calculation of a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value below a set value.

[0139] The carbon dioxide emissions may include the carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100.

[0140] This allows for the appropriate calculation of a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value below a set value.

[0141] The synthesis gas production facility 100 has a synthesis gas production apparatus 140 that produces synthesis gas, and the parameters may further include the operating cost of the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 and the amount of carbon dioxide emitted when the synthesis gas production apparatus 140 is in operation.

[0142] This allows for highly accurate calculation of a raw material procurement plan that minimizes synthesis gas production costs while maintaining the CI value below a set value.

[0143] Furthermore, as described above, the management method according to this embodiment is a management method for managing a synthesis gas production facility 100 that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, and includes: executing a parameter acquisition process to acquire parameters that include at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, procurement costs required for procuring raw materials, and carbon dioxide emissions generated during raw material procurement, set for each of a plurality of CI values ​​that have different values ​​from each other; and executing a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0144] As a result, the management method according to this embodiment can calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value below a set value. Therefore, the management method according to this embodiment can provide the user of the syngas production facility 100 with a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production. For this reason, the management method according to this embodiment can encourage the user of the syngas production facility 100 to procure raw materials that minimize the cost of syngas production.

[0145] Furthermore, as described above, the program according to this embodiment is a program for managing a synthesis gas production facility 100 that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, and the computer functions as a processing unit 220 that performs a parameter acquisition process to obtain parameters that include at least a target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, set for each of several CI values ​​with different values ​​from each other, the procurement cost required for procuring raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated when procuring raw materials, and then performs a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production based on the parameters.

[0146] As a result, the program according to this embodiment can calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production while maintaining the CI value below a set value. Therefore, the program according to this embodiment can provide the user of the syngas production facility 100 with a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the cost of syngas production. For this reason, the program according to this embodiment can encourage the user of the syngas production facility 100 to procure raw materials that minimize the cost of syngas production.

[0147] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0148] For example, in the above embodiment, the procurement cost is given as an example in which the operating cost of the raw material production equipment, the transportation cost required for transporting raw materials from the supplier to the synthesis gas production facility 100, and the cost of the transported raw materials. However, the procurement cost may also include the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity required for procuring raw materials. This allows for the appropriate calculation of the raw material procurement plan. The electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity required for procuring raw materials includes, for example, the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment, and the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity required for transportation.

[0149] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the carbon dioxide emissions were given as an example in which the carbon dioxide emissions include the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production equipment and the carbon dioxide emissions generated when transporting raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility. However, the carbon dioxide emissions may also include the carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity required for raw material procurement. This allows for a suitable calculation of the raw material procurement plan. The carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity required for raw material procurement include, for example, the carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production equipment and the carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity required for transportation.

[0150] Furthermore, the processing unit 220 may calculate the amount of carbon dioxide emissions from the produced synthesis gas and the amount of carbon dioxide reduction from the produced synthesis gas based on a database for CFP calculations. The processing unit 220 may then store the amount of carbon dioxide emissions from the produced synthesis gas and the amount of carbon dioxide reduction from the produced synthesis gas in the first storage unit 222.

[0151] Furthermore, the planning process shown in Figure 6 above may be executed automatically at predetermined intervals, or it may be executed in response to user input. Also, the execution command reception process step S160 may be omitted in the planning process. In other words, the processing unit 220 may execute the processes from the determination process step S170 onward without receiving an execution command.

[0152] Furthermore, the control device 200 may prepare a certificate of origin for the clean synthesis gas (certificate of origin), a clean gas certificate, evidence, and a CFP for the synthesized gas produced, indicating that raw materials from multiple sources were used in combination.

[0153] The control device 200 may also calculate the actual total cost required for the production of synthesis gas (for example, the total cost per unit amount).

[0154] Furthermore, the management device 200 may be implemented as a cloud service.

[0155] Furthermore, the processor 210a of the control device 210 of the management device 200 may perform a verification process to check the integrity of the input data. The processor 210a may, for example, perform the verification process periodically. For example, the processor 210a may periodically execute the following formula (1) as the verification process to perform an error check. The input data includes, for example, various parameters acquired in the parameter acquisition process described above, and / or operating data of each device acquired in the operating data acquisition process. Σ Input (raw materials + energy consumption) = Σ Output (product) * variable …Equation (1)

[0156] The processor 210a can calculate the raw material procurement plan with high accuracy by executing a verification process that checks the integrity of the parameters acquired in the parameter acquisition process. Furthermore, the processor 210a can calculate the raw material procurement plan with even higher accuracy by executing a verification process that checks the integrity of the operating data of each device acquired in the operating data acquisition process, in addition to the parameters acquired in the parameter acquisition process. Similarly, the processor 210a can calculate the operation plan of the synthesis gas production plant 140 and / or the second power procurement plan with high accuracy by executing a verification process that checks the integrity of the parameters acquired in the parameter acquisition process. Furthermore, the processor 210a can calculate the operation plan of the synthesis gas production plant 140 and / or the second power procurement plan with even higher accuracy by executing a verification process that checks the integrity of the operating data of each device acquired in the operating data acquisition process, in addition to the parameters acquired in the parameter acquisition process.

[0157] This disclosure can contribute, for example, to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, "Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy," and Goal 9, "Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation." [Explanation of symbols]

[0158] 100 Synthesis gas production facilities 114. Water electrolysis equipment (raw material production equipment) 126 Recovery equipment (raw material production equipment) 130 Compressor (raw material production equipment) 132 Cooler (raw material production equipment) 140 Synthesis gas production equipment 200 Management device 210a Processor 210b memory 220 processing units

Claims

1. A control device for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, The management device comprises one or more processors and one or more memories connected to the processors. The aforementioned processor, The process involves performing a parameter acquisition process to obtain parameters that include at least the target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring the raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the procurement of the raw materials, each set for a plurality of CI values ​​that differ from one another. Based on the aforementioned parameters, a planning calculation process is performed to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the production cost of the synthesis gas. A control device, including a management device.

2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the procurement cost includes the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity required to procure the raw materials.

3. The synthesis gas production facility has a raw material production device for producing the raw materials, The control device according to claim 1, wherein the procurement cost includes the operating cost of the raw material production device.

4. The control device according to claim 3, wherein the operating cost of the raw material production device includes the electricity cost calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production device.

5. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the procurement cost includes the transportation cost required for transporting the raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility.

6. The control device according to claim 5, wherein the procurement cost includes the cost of the raw materials to be transported.

7. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the carbon dioxide emissions include carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity required to procure the raw materials.

8. The synthesis gas production facility has a raw material production device for producing the raw materials, The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the carbon dioxide emissions include the carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production device.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the raw material production device includes the amount of carbon dioxide emissions calculated based on the amount of electricity consumed by the raw material production device.

10. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the carbon dioxide emissions include carbon dioxide emissions generated during the transportation of the raw materials from the raw material supplier to the synthesis gas production facility.

11. The aforementioned synthesis gas production facility includes a synthesis gas production apparatus for producing the aforementioned synthesis gas. The aforementioned parameters are, The control device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the operating cost of the synthesis gas production apparatus and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated when operating the synthesis gas production apparatus.

12. The management device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor includes performing a verification process to verify the soundness of the parameters obtained in the parameter acquisition process.

13. A management method for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, The process involves performing a parameter acquisition process to obtain parameters that include at least the target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring the raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the procurement of the raw materials, each set for a plurality of CI values ​​that differ from one another. Based on the aforementioned parameters, a planning calculation process is performed to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the production cost of the synthesis gas. Management methods, including those mentioned above.

14. A program for managing a synthesis gas production facility that produces synthesis gas using hydrogen and carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen as raw materials, Computers, A parameter acquisition process is performed to obtain parameters that include at least the target value for the amount of synthesis gas produced, the procurement cost required for procuring the raw materials, and the amount of carbon dioxide emissions generated during the procurement of the raw materials, which are set for each of several CI values ​​that have different values ​​from each other. A processing unit performs a planning calculation process to calculate a raw material procurement plan that minimizes the production cost of the synthesis gas based on the aforementioned parameters. A program designed to function as such.

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