POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND POWER MANAGEMENT METHOD

Abstract

To provide a technology that enables individual control of electricity use in a room even when there is no contract for electricity use by the resident.SOLUTION: There is provided a power management system that manages the usage status of the power supplied to dwelling units, comprising: a power measuring instrument that is connected to the power system and has a communication function provided for each of the dwelling units; and a power management device that is connected to the power measuring instrument through a communication network, and that gives instructions for suspending and canceling the suspension of power supplied to the dwelling unit through the power measuring instrument based on the power usage contract for the dwelling unit in which the power measuring instrument is installed, and bills the customer based on the amount of power used as measured by the power measuring instrument. The power management device accepts requests for power use in dwelling units for which there is no power use contract, and, when the request for power use meets a predetermined condition, the power management device instructs the power measuring instrument installed in the dwelling units to lift the suspension of power supply to the dwelling units and temporarily permits the use of power supplied from the power system to the dwelling units.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power management system and a power management method for managing power usage in an apartment building or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, digital power meters equipped with communication functions (hereinafter also referred to as smart meters) have become widespread. In smart meters, it is possible to measure the amount of power consumed (kWh) by a consumer, and to perform operations such as stopping and restarting the supply of power, via the communication function. Power companies that supply power to consumers, or management companies entrusted by the power companies, are now able to use smart meters to manage the amount of power used by each consumer, or by the area in which the consumer is located, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a power management system that executes power control using information related to power measurement received from a smart meter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-22339 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Meanwhile, facilities of consumers that use electricity include collective housing such as rental apartments. In such cases, a smart meter is installed in each dwelling unit of the collective housing, and power supply to the smart meter starts when a consumer, a resident, enters into an electricity contract, and power supply to the smart meter stops when the electricity contract is terminated. For this reason, there is a problem that electricity cannot be used in vacant rooms after a resident moves out until the next resident enters into an electricity contract.

[0005] For example, when cleaning or preparing the room for the next resident, the outlets in the room cannot be used. For this reason, it was necessary to connect an extension cable to a maintenance outlet in a common space to supply power to the electric cleaning tools in the room, or to prepare rechargeable electric cleaning tools in advance. In addition, because power was not supplied to the lighting equipment and heating and cooling equipment such as air conditioners in the room, the period during which the next potential resident could be shown around the room was limited to daytime, or at night, preparations such as carrying a mobile light such as a flashlight or opening the doors and windows in advance to release the heat trapped in the room were required.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology that enables individual management of electricity usage in a room even if the occupant does not have an electricity usage contract. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the disclosed technique for solving the above problem is to From the power grid 1 or more dwelling units A power management system for managing a usage status of power supplied to a a power meter having a communication function, which is connected to the power system and is provided for each dwelling unit, the power meter stopping and resuming the supply of power from the power system to the dwelling unit through the power meter, and measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling unit; a power management device that is connected to the power meter through a communication network, and issues instructions to stop the supply of power supplied to the dwelling through the power meter and to lift the stop of the power supply based on the power usage contract for the dwelling in which the power meter is installed, and that bills for the amount of power usage measured by the power meter; The power management device receives a request for power usage in the dwelling unit for which the power usage contract does not exist, and when the request for power usage satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device includes a control unit that instructs the power meter installed in the dwelling unit to release the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit and temporarily permits the use of power supplied to the dwelling unit from the power system. It is characterized by:

[0008] As a result, when the power management device receives a request for power use that satisfies predetermined conditions, it can temporarily permit the use of power in the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped, via the smart meter 31, which is a power meter. Power is supplied from the power supply system 3, which is a power grid, to the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped, via the smart meter 31, and it becomes possible to use, for example, air conditioning equipment 33a such as an air conditioner in the dwelling, lighting in the dwelling 33b, and outlets 33c in the dwelling. The power management system makes it possible to individually manage power use in the rooms of dwelling units even in which the residents do not have a power usage contract, thereby improving convenience.

[0009] In one embodiment of the disclosed technology, the request is made via a preregistered terminal, and the control unit may instruct the power meter identified by the unique ID to lift the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit, on the condition that the request for power use includes a unique ID for identifying the power meter, authentication information for permitting temporary use of power supplied from the power grid to the dwelling unit having the unique ID, and identification information of the terminal associated with the authentication information. This makes it possible to identify the smart meter 31 corresponding to the unique ID installed in the dwelling unit 30 for which temporary power use is permitted, and to instruct the smart meter 31 to lift the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit. Furthermore, the authorization can be determined by combining authentication information (password) given to the contract holder of the temporary power use service and identification information (terminal ID, IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the terminal used when requesting power use, thereby improving security regarding authentication and preventing impersonation due to leaking of passwords, for example.

[0010] In one embodiment of the disclosed technology, the control unit may instruct the power meter that is temporarily permitted to use power in the dwelling to stop the supply of power supplied from the power grid to the dwelling based on the duration of power use in the dwelling. In one embodiment of the disclosed technology, the control unit may instruct the power meter that is temporarily permitted to use power in the dwelling to stop the supply of power supplied from the power grid to the dwelling based on the upper limit of the amount of power used in the dwelling. This prevents continued power supply to the dwelling due to worker M1 forgetting to apply for cancellation of temporary power use after work is completed.

[0011] In one embodiment of the disclosed technology, the control unit may bill the dwelling unit for a fee based on the amount of power used, which is an additional fee to the basic fee in the power usage contract for the dwelling unit. This makes it possible to reflect seasonal changes in the power supply situation in the region and the power supply situation in the region when the power situation is tight in the power usage fee.

[0012] In addition, another aspect of the disclosed technology is From the power grid 1 or more dwelling units A management method executed by a power management device of a power management system that manages a usage status of power supplied to a The power management system includes: a power meter having a communication function, which is connected to the power system and is provided for each dwelling unit, the power meter stopping and resuming the supply of power from the power system to the dwelling unit through the power meter, and measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling unit; a power management device that is connected to the power meter through a communication network, and issues instructions to stop the supply of power supplied to the dwelling through the power meter and to lift the stop of the power supply based on the power usage contract for the dwelling in which the power meter is installed, and that bills for the amount of power usage measured by the power meter; when a request for power use in the dwelling unit for which no power use contract exists is received and the request for power use satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device instructs the power meter installed in the dwelling unit to release the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit, and temporarily permits the use of power supplied to the dwelling unit from the power grid; Make the following happen.

[0013] Even in this configuration, when a request for power use that satisfies predetermined conditions is received, the power management device can temporarily permit the use of power in the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped, via the smart meter 31, which is a power meter. Power is supplied from the power supply system 3, which is a power grid, to the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped, via the smart meter 31, enabling the use of, for example, air conditioning equipment 33a such as an air conditioner in the dwelling, lighting in the dwelling 33b, and outlets 33c in the dwelling. According to the power management system, even in a dwelling for which the resident does not have a power usage contract, power use in the dwelling room can be managed individually, improving convenience. Effect of the Invention

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique that allows for individual management of power usage in a room even when a resident does not have an electricity usage contract. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a power management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a power management apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of customer information registered in a customer DB according to the first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information registered in an electric power usage DB according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a power use permission process in the first embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] [Application example] Hereinafter, application examples of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a power management system 1 according to an application example of the present invention. The power management system 1 according to this application example is a system that manages, for each consumer, the power supplied corresponding to the facility of the consumer. As shown in FIG. 1, the power management system 1 according to this application example is configured to include an electric power company 2, apartment buildings (20a to 20n), and a management company 50. The electric power company 2 is an organization that manages the amount of power supplied to consumers under contract or the like from the electric power company, as well as the power supplier that supplies power to consumers in its jurisdiction. The apartment buildings (20a to 20n) are representative examples of consumer facilities that use the power supplied by the electric power company 2. Each apartment building is configured to include a plurality of dwelling units 30 in which residents can reside. The management company 50 is a business operator that manages apartment complexes (20a to 20n).

[0017] The electric power company 2 includes a power supply system 3 and a power management device 10, and supplies power to consumer facilities through the power supply system 3. In this application example, power is supplied to each resident (consumer) of an apartment building 20 based on a power usage contract concluded with the resident. The power management device 10 is a computer such as a server that manages the power supplied to the consumer facilities. The power management device 10 may be composed of a single computer or multiple computers. The multiple computers may be connected via a network to function as a cloud. The power management device 10 includes a control unit 11, a billing unit 12, a customer DB 13, and a power usage DB 14 as functional configuration elements.

[0018] The apartment building 20a includes a distribution board 22, a common area outlet 23, and a dwelling unit 30. The dwelling unit 30 includes a smart meter 31, an in-dwelling distribution board 32, and in-dwelling loads (33a to 33c). A smart meter 31 is provided for each of the dwelling units 30 constituting the apartment building 20a. The smart meter 31 is a digital power meter equipped with a communication function. A unique identification information (ID) is assigned to the smart meter 31 in advance. The smart meter 31 is connected to a network N to which the power management device 10 is connected. The smart meter 31 and the in-dwelling distribution board 32 are connected via indoor wiring, and power supplied from the power supply system 3 is passed through the in-dwelling loads (33a to 33c) connected to the in-dwelling distribution board 32 via the smart meter. A current value (amperage) of power based on a power usage contract concluded between the resident and the power company 2 is supplied to the dwelling unit 30 via the smart meter 31, and power supply via the smart meter 31 is stopped when the power usage contract is terminated. When a power usage contract is established for the dwelling unit 30, the power management device 10 of the power company 2 controls the smart meter 31 of the dwelling unit via the network N to start supplying power to the dwelling unit distribution board 32. Similarly, when a power usage contract for the dwelling unit 30 is terminated, the power management device 10 of the power company 2 controls the smart meter 31 to stop supplying power to the dwelling unit distribution board 32.

[0019] The smart meter 31 measures the amount of power (kWh) consumed by the dwelling load 30 of the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has started. The amount of power consumed by the dwelling load 30 is measured at intervals of a predetermined unit time (e.g., 30 minutes, 60 minutes, etc.). The current value of the power consumed by the dwelling load 30 is also measured. The smart meter 31 transmits the power consumption amount, current value, etc., to which individual identification information (hereinafter also referred to as "unique ID") is added, to the power management device 10 of the power company 2 connected to the network N. The power management device 10 manages the power consumption of the resident living in the dwelling unit based on the power consumption amount and current value for each dwelling unit acquired via the network N.

[0020] When a resident of dwelling unit 30 moves out, the electricity contract is cancelled and electricity supply to the dwelling unit via smart meter 31 is stopped. In other words, electricity is supplied from the electricity supply system 3 up to the smart meter 31, but electricity is not supplied to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 and dwelling unit loads 33 after the smart meter 31. For this reason, there was a problem that electricity could not be used in vacant rooms after a resident moves out until the next resident signs an electricity contract.

[0021] In the power management system 1 according to this application example, when a request for power use that satisfies certain conditions is received, the use of power in a dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped is temporarily permitted. The power management device 10 of the power company 2 according to this application example receives the request for power use, for example, via a network N. Then, when the received request satisfies certain conditions, the power management device 10 resumes the power supply to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 in the dwelling unit, which was suspended by a smart meter 31 installed in the dwelling unit. A smart meter 31 connected to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 by indoor wiring The load 33 in the residence is supplied with electricity from the power supply system 3 through the smart meter 31. For example, the air conditioner 33a in the residence can be used, and the temperature in the residence can be appropriately adjusted even in summer, so that the potential tenant will not feel uncomfortable. In addition, the lighting 33b in the residence can be used, so that the period during which the residence can be shown is not limited, and the potential tenant can show the residence regardless of whether it is daytime or nighttime. Furthermore, the electric cleaning tool 35 and the electric tools required for maintenance work can be used using the electric power supplied from the outlet 33c in the residence, so there is no problem with paying the fee for the electric power used through the common area outlet 23. According to the electric power management system 1 of this application example, even in a residence where the resident does not have an electric power use contract, it is possible to individually manage the electric power use in the residence, thereby improving convenience.

[0022] Example 1 Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] <System configuration> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a power management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power management system 1 according to the embodiment is a system that manages power supplied to each customer facility. As shown in FIG. 1, the power management system 1 according to the embodiment includes a power company 2, apartment buildings (20a to 20n), and a management company 50. The power company 2 is an organization that manages the amount of power supplied to customers in the area under its jurisdiction, or the amount of power supplied to customers under contract from the power company. The apartment buildings (20a to 20n) are representative examples of customer facilities that use power supplied from the power company 2. Examples of other types of customer facilities include office buildings and commercial buildings in which multiple tenants reside, and commercial facilities such as shopping centers and industrial facilities. Each apartment building includes multiple dwelling units 30 in which residents can live. The apartment buildings (20a to 20n) can take various forms, such as condominiums, apartments, and mezzotines. The management company 50 is a business operator that manages the apartment buildings (20a to 20n). Hereinafter, the apartment buildings (20a to 20n) are collectively referred to as "apartment building 20." In this embodiment, the apartment building 20a is used as an example of a consumer facility. The management company 50 includes the owner of the apartment building 20 or a real estate company entrusted with management by the owner, a cleaning company, a construction company, etc. entrusted by the owner or the real estate company.

[0024] The electric power company 2 includes a power supply system 3 and a power management device 10. The power supply system 3 is a power supply facility for supplying power to a customer facility. The power supply system 3 may include, for example, power generation facilities such as thermal power generation, hydroelectric power generation, nuclear power generation, solar power generation, wind power generation, geothermal power generation, and fuel cells, substation facilities, power transmission facilities, and power distribution facilities. In this embodiment, the "power supply system 3" corresponds to an example of an "electric power system." The electric power company 2 supplies power to a customer facility through the power supply system 3. In this embodiment, power based on a power usage contract concluded with each resident (customer) residing in the apartment building 20 is supplied to each resident's house. The power management device 10 is a computer such as a server that manages the power supplied to the customer facility. The power management device 10 may be composed of a single computer or may be composed of multiple computers. A cloud form in which multiple computers are connected through a network and function as an integrated unit may be used. The power management apparatus 10 includes, as its functional components, a control unit 11, a billing unit 12, a customer DB 13, and a power usage DB 14. The functional components of the power management apparatus 10 will be described later.

[0025] The apartment building 20a includes a distribution board 22, a common area outlet 23, and a dwelling unit 30. The dwelling unit 30 includes a smart meter 31, an in-dwelling distribution board 32, and in-dwelling loads (33a to 33c). The smart meter 31 is provided for each of the dwelling units 30 that make up the apartment building 20a. The distribution board 22 is a common distribution board for the entire apartment building 20a. The distribution board 22 and the power supply of the power company 2 The power supply system 3 is connected to the distribution board 22 via a power line, and the power supplied through the power line is always applied to the distribution board. The distribution board 22 and smart meters 31 installed in each dwelling unit are connected via indoor wiring, and the power supplied from the power supply system 3 is distributed to each dwelling unit via the distribution board. The common area outlet 23 is an outlet provided in a common area (common space) of the apartment building 20a. The common area is, for example, an entrance, a hallway, or a staircase of the apartment building 20a. The common area is provided with shared loads such as lighting fixtures such as outdoor lights and hallway lights, emergency equipment such as fire alarms, and air conditioners. Power is supplied to the common area outlet 23 and the shared loads connected to the distribution board 22 via a power line via the distribution board.

[0026] The smart meter 31 is a digital power meter equipped with a communication function. A unique identification information (ID) is assigned to the smart meter 31 in advance. The smart meter 31 is connected to a network N. The network N includes a public network such as the Internet, a wireless network such as a mobile phone network, a dedicated network such as PLC (Power Line Communication) or VPN (Virtual Private Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), and other networks. The power management device 10 is connected to the network N. In addition, a plurality of smart meters 31 provided for each dwelling unit and a plurality of power management devices 10 provided for each jurisdiction that manages the power usage of consumers may be connected to the network N. In this embodiment, the "smart meter" corresponds to an example of the "power meter."

[0027] The smart meter 31 and the dwelling distribution board 32 are connected via indoor wiring, and the power supplied from the power supply system 3 is passed through the dwelling loads (33a to 33c) connected to the dwelling distribution board 32 via the smart meter. The dwelling loads are, for example, air conditioning equipment 33a such as an air conditioner, dwelling lighting 33b, and dwelling outlets 33c. Hereinafter, the dwelling loads (33a to 33c) are also collectively referred to as "dwelling loads 30." The dwelling loads 30 include various electrical appliances used by the resident (tenant) living in the dwelling. A current value (ampere number) of power is supplied to the dwelling 30 through the smart meter 31 based on a power usage contract concluded between the resident and the power company 2, and power supply through the smart meter 31 is stopped when the power usage contract is terminated. For example, when a power usage contract for a dwelling unit 30 is concluded, the power management device 10 of the power company 2 controls the smart meter 31 of the dwelling unit through the network N to start supplying power to the dwelling unit distribution board 32. Similarly, when a power usage contract for the dwelling unit 30 is terminated, the power management device 10 of the power company 2 controls the smart meter 31 to stop supplying power to the dwelling unit distribution board 32.

[0028] The smart meter 31 measures the amount of power (kWh) consumed by the dwelling load 30 of the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has started. The amount of power consumed by the dwelling load 30 is measured at intervals of a predetermined unit time (e.g., 30 minutes, 60 minutes, etc.). The current value of the power consumed by the dwelling load 30 is also measured. The smart meter 31 transmits the power consumption amount, current value, etc., to which individual identification information (hereinafter also referred to as "unique ID") is added, to the power management device 10 of the power company 2 connected to the network N. The power management device 10 manages the power consumption of the resident living in the dwelling unit based on the power consumption amount and current value for each dwelling unit acquired via the network N.

[0029] When a resident of the dwelling unit 30 moves out, the power usage contract is cancelled, and power supply to the dwelling unit through the smart meter 31 is stopped. In other words, although power is supplied from the power supply system 3 up to the smart meter 31, power is not supplied to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 and dwelling unit loads 33 after the smart meter 31. For this reason, for example, a worker M1 who is cleaning the room and carrying out maintenance work in preparation for the next resident needs to secure power by connecting an extension cable or the like to the common area outlet 23, and use that power to operate the electric cleaning tool 35, electric tools, etc. If the common area outlet 23 cannot be used, it is necessary to prepare a rechargeable It was necessary to prepare electric cleaning tools 35, etc. In addition, when the work of indoor cleaning and maintenance work is based on a contract with the owner of the apartment building 20 or a real estate company, etc., the burden of the charge for the electricity used in the common areas becomes unclear. In addition, even if the burden of the electricity used in the common areas is reflected in the rent of the residents living in each dwelling unit 30 of the apartment building 20, the question arises as to whether the electricity charge for the indoor cleaning work should be included. In addition, when showing the next potential occupant to the dwelling unit 30 after the resident has moved out, the showing period is limited to daytime because the indoor lighting cannot be used, and when showing at night, etc., it was necessary to prepare mobile lighting such as a flashlight. In summer, etc., it was necessary to prepare in advance by opening the doors and windows in advance to release the heat trapped in the dwelling unit.

[0030] In the power management system 1 according to the present embodiment, when a request for power use that satisfies a predetermined condition is received, the power use in the dwelling unit 30 to which the power supply has been stopped is temporarily permitted. The power management device 10 of the power company 2 according to the present embodiment receives the request for power use, for example, through the network N. Then, when the received request satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device 10 releases the power supply stop to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 in the dwelling unit, which was stopped by the smart meter 31 installed in the dwelling unit. The power supplied from the power supply system 3 is supplied to the dwelling unit load 33 connected to the dwelling unit distribution board 32 by the indoor wiring through the smart meter 31. For example, the air conditioning equipment 33a such as an air conditioner in the dwelling unit can be used, and the temperature in the room can be appropriately adjusted even in the summer, so that the prospective occupant does not feel uncomfortable. In addition, the lighting in the dwelling unit 33b can be used, so that the period for showing the dwelling unit is not limited, and the prospective occupant can be shown the dwelling unit regardless of whether it is daytime or nighttime. Furthermore, because the power supplied from the in-dwelling outlet 33c can be used to operate the power cleaning tool 35 and power tools required for maintenance work, there is no problem with paying the bill for the power used through the common area outlet 23. According to the power management system 1 of this embodiment, even in a dwelling where the resident does not have a power usage contract, it is possible to individually manage the power usage in the living room, thereby improving convenience.

[0031] The temporarily permitted use of electricity in the dwelling unit 30 is stopped, for example, based on a request to stop the use of electricity. The power management device 10 receives the request to stop the use of electricity, for example, through the network N. The power management device 10 stops the power supply temporarily supplied to the dwelling unit through the smart meter 31 based on the received request to stop the use of electricity.

[0032] For example, the smart meter 31 starts measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling when the supply of power to the dwelling distribution board 32 starts. Then, the smart meter 31 transmits the amount of power used measured from the start to the stop of the temporarily permitted power supply to the network N together with its own unique ID, triggered by the stop of the power supply. The power management device 10 acquires the amount of power transmitted from the smart meter 31 through the network N together with the unique ID. The acquired amount of power is recorded in a memory provided in the power management device 10 with time information added together with the unique ID of the smart meter 31. The smart meter 31 may transmit the amount of power measured at a predetermined unit time interval (1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc.) together with its own unique ID to the network N when the supply of power to the dwelling distribution board 32 starts. Then, the smart meter 31 may transmit the amount of power used from the most recent measurement to the stop of the power supply to the network N. The power management device 10 acquires the amount of power transmitted from the smart meter 31 through the network N together with the unique ID. The acquired amount of power may be stored in a memory provided in the power management device 10 with time information added together with the unique ID of the smart meter 31. Even in this form, the amount of power consumed in a dwelling where temporary power use is permitted can be managed. In the power management device 10, for example, the amount of power usage recorded in the memory is tallied for a predetermined period (for example, monthly, etc.), and a fee based on the tallied amount of power usage is charged to the person requesting power use.

[0033] In the power management system 1 according to the present embodiment, a request for temporary power use is made, for example, via an information processing terminal 40 carried by a worker (M1 to Mn). The information processing terminal 40 is a portable mobile terminal such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop PC, and has a communication function for connecting to the network N. In the present embodiment, the "information processing terminal 40" corresponds to an example of a "terminal." Hereinafter, the workers (M1 to Mn) are also collectively referred to as "worker M." The worker M is an employee of the management company 50, or a contractor who is commissioned by the management company 50 to perform cleaning and maintenance work on the dwelling unit 30, or a person in charge of showing the property to potential tenants.

[0034] The management company 50 concludes a service contract in advance with the electric power company 2 regarding temporary power usage in the dwelling unit 30 for which no power usage contract exists by the resident. When the service contract is concluded between the electric power company 2 and the management company 50, the identification information (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the information processing terminal 40 applied for by the management company 50 is registered in advance in the electric power company 2. In addition, the management company 50 is given a password (PW) for permitting temporary power usage by the electric power company 2. The password is given, for example, for each management company or each information processing terminal. In the electric power company 2, information regarding the management company 50, the identification information (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the information processing terminal 40, and information regarding the service contract including the password are registered in the subscriber DB 13 provided in the power management device 10. In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, authentication is performed by combining authentication information (password) given to the management company 50 that has concluded a service contract with the management company 50 and identification information (terminal ID) of the information processing terminal 40 of the worker who uses the authentication information to apply for temporary permission to use electricity, thereby improving security regarding authentication and preventing impersonation due to leaking of passwords.

[0035] Hereinafter, the procedure for temporary power usage in a dwelling unit will be described, in the role of the worker M1 who cleans the interior of the dwelling unit 30 after the resident has moved out. The information processing terminal 40 has been lent to the worker M1 in advance by the management company 50. When starting the cleaning work, the worker M1 uses the information processing terminal 40 to obtain information for identifying the unique ID of the smart meter 31 that is the target of power usage. For example, the smart meter 31 is subjected to processing 34 for allowing the information processing terminal 40 to read the unique ID of the meter. Examples of such processing 34 include attaching a two-dimensional code of unique ID information and attaching an IC tag (RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) ​​tag) in which unique ID information is embedded. These two-dimensional codes, IC tags, etc. are attached to the surface of the housing of the smart meter 31 so that they can be read by the information processing terminal 40. The worker M1 can operate the information processing terminal 40 to obtain the unique ID information of the smart meter 31 via a camera function or an RFID function (FIG. 1, circled 1). The information for identifying the unique ID of the smart meter 31 may be, for example, an address including the room number of the dwelling unit 30, location information, a serial number of the smart meter 31, or the like.

[0036] The worker M1 applies for permission to use temporary power for the dwelling unit 30 using the unique ID read from the smart meter 31 and the password (PW) given to the management company 50 based on the service contract (FIG. 1, circled 2). The worker M1 connects to the network N using, for example, the browser function of the information processing terminal 40, and accesses a web page set up by the power company 2 for permission to use temporary power. The accessed web page of the power company 2 is displayed on the display screen of the information processing terminal 40. The worker M1 then inputs predetermined information for permission to use temporary power into the reception screen of the web page displayed on the information processing terminal M1, and presses a GUI (Graphical User Interface) such as an application button provided on the screen. When the application button or the like is pressed, the information processing terminal 40 adds the identification information of its own terminal (IP address, MAC address, etc.) to the unique ID and password of the smart meter 31 of the dwelling unit 30 that is the target of temporary power use, which were input through the reception screen, and transmits the result to the network N.

[0037] The power management device 10 of the power company 2 receives information transmitted from the information processing terminal 40 through the network N. The control unit 11 of the power management device 10 acquires the unique ID and password of the smart meter 31 and the identification information (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the information processing terminal 40 that are applied for through the reception screen. The control unit 11 refers to the contractor DB 13 and collates the combination of the identification information of the information processing terminal 40 and the password applied for through the reception screen. When the result of the collation shows that the combination of the identification information and password of the information processing terminal 40 is registered in the contractor DB 13, the control unit 11 determines that the received request for power use satisfies a predetermined condition and instructs the smart meter 31 identified by the unique ID to cancel the power supply stop through the network N (FIG. 1, circled 3). The smart meter 31 starts supplying power to the dwelling unit in response to the instruction to cancel the power supply stop (FIG. 1, circled 4). Electricity is supplied to dwelling loads 33 installed in the dwelling via a dwelling distribution board 32, enabling the use of air conditioning equipment 33a, dwelling lighting 33b, and dwelling outlets 33c. Worker M1, for example, uses the electricity supplied to dwelling outlet 33c to operate electric cleaning tool 35 or the like to perform cleaning work in the dwelling (FIG. 1, circled 5).

[0038] After completing the work in the dwelling, the worker M1 cancels the temporary power usage in the dwelling. The cancellation of the power usage is performed, for example, in the same manner as an application for permission to temporarily use power in the dwelling 30. The worker M1 accesses the web page of the power company 2, displays a cancellation screen for canceling the temporary power usage on the display screen of the information processing terminal 40, and performs a predetermined operation. For example, the worker M1 inputs the unique ID and password of the smart meter 31, and operates a cancellation button or the like provided on the display screen. The information processing terminal 40 adds the identification information of the terminal itself (IP address, MAC address, etc.) to the unique ID and password of the smart meter 31 inputted by pressing the cancellation button or the like, and transmits the information to the network N. The information regarding the cancellation of the power usage transmitted from the information processing terminal 40 is received by the power management device 10 via the network N.

[0039] Based on the received request to cancel power usage, the control unit 11 of the power management device 10 instructs the smart meter 31 identified by the unique ID to stop power supply (FIG. 1, circled 6). In response to the instruction to stop power supply, the smart meter 31 stops supplying power to the dwelling (FIG. 1, circled 7). Power that was temporarily supplied to the dwelling load 33 via the dwelling distribution board 32 is stopped.

[0040] The power supply to the dwelling unit temporarily stopped through the smart meter 31 may be based on the contents of a contract concluded in advance between the power company 2 and the management company. Examples of the contents of the contract regarding such a power supply stop include, for example, a restriction on the time of use of the temporarily available power, a restriction on the amount of power that can be used, and a specification of an upper limit of the number of amperes (current capacity value) used in the dwelling unit. Furthermore, such a restriction on the power use may be provided, for example, on a reception screen of a Web page accessed to receive permission for temporary power use. When applying for permission for temporary power use, the worker M1 can specify the upper limit of the use time, the amount of power used, the current capacity value, and the like. The control unit 11 of the power management device 10 can instruct the smart meter 31 on the power supply stop conditions based on the power use restriction as the upper limit of the use time and the amount of power used, regardless of the application for canceling the temporary power use via the information processing terminal 40, and can stop the power supply to the dwelling unit through the smart meter. It is possible to prevent the power supply to the dwelling unit from continuing due to the worker M1 forgetting to apply.

[0041] The amount of power (kWh) used by worker M1 in the residence, the upper limit of current capacity (amperes), etc. are measured by smart meter 31 and notified to power management device 10 via network N. Control unit 11 of power management device 10 passes the notified power amount data to billing unit 12 (FIG. 1, circled 8). Billing unit 13 stores the passed data on the amount of power in power usage DB 14 together with date and time information. The amount of power stored in power usage DB 14 is The amount of electricity used is calculated for each predetermined period, such as monthly, and a fee based on the calculated amount of electricity used is charged to the management company 50 to which the worker M1 belongs (FIG. 1, circled 9).

[0042] The number of amperes of electricity consumed by the electric cleaning tool 35 and the like used in the residence is unknown. For this reason, the electric power company 2 may temporarily increase the number of amperes of electricity supplied to the residence through the smart meter 31. In addition, there are circumstances such as regional and seasonal fluctuations in the amount of electricity used with respect to the use of electricity supplied from the power supply system 3. For this reason, the billing unit 11 of the power management device 10 may increase the electricity usage fee taking into consideration the supply time and supply area of ​​the electricity temporarily used in the residence. For example, a surcharge can be charged on the basic electricity usage fee depending on the number of amperes of electricity temporarily used, the amount of electricity used, the time of use, and the area of ​​use. The 20A electric power company 2 is paid an amount according to the bill by the management company (FIG. 1, circled 10).

[0043] <Device configuration> FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the power management apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the power management apparatus 10 is a computer including a processor 101, a main memory device 102, an auxiliary memory device 103, a communication IF 104, and an input / output IF 105, which are connected to each other by a connection bus 106. The main memory device 102 and the auxiliary memory device 103 are recording media that can be read by the power management apparatus 10. The main memory device 102 and the auxiliary memory device 103 constitute the memory of the power management apparatus 10. Each of the above components may be provided in a plurality of units, or some of the components may not be provided. The configuration of the information processing terminal 40 is substantially the same as the hardware configuration of the server 10, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0044] The processor 101 is a central processing unit that controls the entire power management apparatus 10. The processor 101 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a digital signal processor (DSP). The program is executablely deployed in the working area of ​​the main storage device 102, and peripheral devices are controlled through the execution of the program to provide functions that meet a predetermined purpose. In this embodiment, the functions of the control unit 11, billing unit 12, customer DB 13, and power usage DB 14 are provided through the execution of the program. Each DB is, for example, a relational database constructed by a database management system (DBMS) program executed by the processor 101 of the power management device 10 managing data stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 or the like. Note that some or all of the functions may be provided by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. Similarly, some or all of the functions may be implemented using FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), The present invention may be realized by a dedicated LSI (large scale integration) such as a numerical calculation processor, a vector processor, an image processor, or other hardware circuits. The device 10 may be implemented in a single physical configuration, or may be implemented as a configuration of multiple computers working in conjunction with each other.

[0045] The main memory device 102 stores the programs executed by the processor 101, the data processed by the processor, etc. The main memory device 102 includes a flash memory, a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a ROM (Read Only Memory). The auxiliary memory device 103 stores various programs and various data in a readable and writable recording medium. The auxiliary memory device 103 is also called an external memory device. For example, an OS (Operating System), various programs, various tables, etc. are stored in the auxiliary memory device 103. The OS includes, for example, a communication interface program that transfers data to and from an external device, etc. connected via the communication IF 104. The external device, etc. are, for example, a computer such as an information processing terminal 40 connected to the network N, an external memory device, a smart meter 31, etc.

[0046] The auxiliary storage device 103 is used as a storage area that supports the main storage device 102, and stores programs executed by the processor 101, data processed by the processor 101, etc. The auxiliary storage device 103 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory (flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) Silicon disks, solid state drive devices, hard disks, Hard disk drives (HDDs) and other storage devices. Examples of the drive device 03 include a drive device for a removable recording medium such as a CD drive device, a DVD drive device, and a BD drive device. Examples of the removable recording medium include a CD, a DVD, a BD, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, and an SD (Secure Digital) memory card.

[0047] The communication IF 104 is an interface for connecting the power management apparatus 10 to the network N. In the power management apparatus 10, the information processing terminal 30, the smart meter 31, and the like, the communication IF 104 can adopt an appropriate configuration depending on the connection method with the network N.

[0048] The input / output IF 105 is an interface for inputting and outputting data between devices connected to the power management apparatus 10. Input devices, such as a keyboard, a touch panel, a pointing device such as a mouse, and a microphone, are connected to the input / output IF 105. The power management apparatus 10 receives operation instructions and the like from an operator who operates the input device via the input / output IF 105. The input / output IF 105 is also connected to a display, such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), Display devices such as LCDs, EL (Electroluminescence) panels, and organic EL panels, Output devices such as a printer, a speaker, etc. are connected to the power management apparatus 10. The power management apparatus 10 outputs, via the input / output IF 105, data and information processed by the processor 101, and data and information stored in the main storage device 102 and the auxiliary storage device 103.

[0049] <Functional configuration> When the control unit 11 of the power management device 10 receives a request for power usage that satisfies a predetermined condition via the network N, it controls the smart meter 31 to temporarily permit power usage in the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped. Similarly, the control unit 11 controls the smart meter 31 to stop power usage in the dwelling unit where power usage has been temporarily permitted. The control unit 11 then acquires data on the amount of power usage (kWh) in the dwelling unit where power usage has been temporarily permitted, transmitted from the smart meter 31 via the network N, and transfers it to the billing unit 13. The billing unit 13 accumulates the transferred data on the amount of power usage together with date and time information in the power usage DB 14, and bills the management company 50 for a usage fee based on the amount of power usage accumulated in the power usage DB 14 for each predetermined period.

[0050] Next, the contractor DB 13 and the power usage DB 14 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of contractor information registered in the contractor DB 13. The contractor DB 13 shown in FIG. 3 has the following items: area ID, name, contractor ID, contract period, contract type, terminal ID, and PW. The area ID stores information (area ID) indicating the area in which the management company 50, with which a temporary power usage service contract is concluded, is located. The area ID may include the address and location information of the management company 50. The name stores identification information for identifying the management company 50. The name may include, for example, the registered name of the management company and the business code given to the management company 50. The contractor ID stores a contract management number (contractor ID) assigned to the management company 50 at the time of the service contract. The contract period stores information indicating the validity period of the service contract concluded with the management company 50. The contract type stores information indicating the type of usage restriction during power usage. Examples of such information include information indicating a limit on the usage time (e.g., 1 hour, etc.) and information indicating an upper limit on the amount of power that can be used (5 kWh, 10 kWh, etc.). If no such limit is set in advance, information indicating that there is no limit (e.g., blank or "---") is stored. In addition, when temporary power usage is performed, the usage time and amount of power usage can be specified. In this case, usage restrictions are managed for each terminal ID (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the information processing terminal 40. The terminal ID stores the identification information (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the information processing terminal 40 applied for by the management company 50 when the service contract is concluded. The PW stores authentication information provided to permit temporary power use. A password is provided, for example, for each management company or each information processing terminal. Note that items can be added, changed, or deleted from the subscriber information registered in the subscriber DB 13 as appropriate.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information registered in the power usage DB 14. It is possible to add, change, or delete items of information registered in the power usage DB 14 as appropriate. The power usage DB 14 shown in FIG. 4 has items of smart meter ID, usage date and time, terminal ID, amount of power usage, and usage status. The smart meter ID stores information indicating the unique ID of the smart meter 31. The usage date and time stores information (start time, end time) indicating the period during which power was temporarily used based on the service contract. The terminal ID stores the terminal ID of the information processing terminal 40 for which permission to use temporary power has been applied for. The amount of power usage (kWh) stores data indicating the amount of power used. However, the amount of power usage may include an upper limit value of the power capacity value (amperes). The usage status stores information indicating that power is being used (for example, "1" when power is being used, and blank when power is not being used). It is to be noted that the usage status may include a designation of the usage time and amount of power usage applied for when temporary power usage is performed. The electricity usage DB 14 may also be provided with items for storing auxiliary information for identifying the smart meter 31 (smart meter image, location information, serial number, address (including room number)).

[0052] <Processing flow> Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of a power use permission process provided by the power management device 10 according to the present embodiment. In the flow of Fig. 5, when a request for power use that satisfies a predetermined condition is received, temporary use of power in the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped is permitted. The temporary use of power in the dwelling unit 30 to which power supply has been stopped continues until the power supply stop condition is satisfied. The power use permission process shown in the flow of Fig. 5 is executed each time an application for permission for temporary power use is received via the network N from the information processing terminal 40 carried by the worker M.

[0053] After the process starts, in step S101, the worker (power user) who has applied for permission is identified based on the terminal ID and authentication information (PW) included in the application for permission for temporary power use received from the information processing terminal 40. The power management device 10 refers to the contractor DB 13, searches for the combination of the terminal ID and authentication information included in the permission application, and the process proceeds to step S102. In step S102, it is determined whether the permission application received from the information processing terminal 40 satisfies a predetermined condition. In step S102, if the combination of the terminal ID and authentication information included in the permission application exists as a result of searching the contractor DB 13 (step S102, "Yes"), the process proceeds to S103. If not (step S102, "No"), this routine is temporarily terminated, and a message urging the user to apply again is displayed on the display screen displayed on the information processing terminal 40. In addition, in the processing of step S102, "No", if the authentication information (PW) is registered in the subscriber DB13 but the terminal ID does not exist, a message may be displayed indicating that temporary power usage is not permitted and prompting the user to contact the management company 50.

[0054] In step S103, when the smart meter 31 to be controlled is identified from the unique ID included in the application for permission to temporarily use power received from the information processing terminal 40, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, an instruction to release the power supply stop is issued to the smart meter 31 identified by the unique ID, and information indicating that power is being used (for example, "1" when power is being used) is stored in the power usage DB 14, and the process proceeds to step S105. The power management device 10 instructs the smart meter to resume the power supply to the dwelling via the network N. In the dwelling 30, power supply to the dwelling is started through the smart meter 31, and the dwelling loads 33 connected to the dwelling distribution board 32 can be used based on the usage time, amount of power used, upper limit of current capacity value, etc., specified in the application for permission to use electricity. The smart meter 31 starts measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling 30.

[0055] In step S105, it is determined whether the usage of the power supplied to the dwelling through the smart meter 31 satisfies the power supply stop condition. The power supply stop condition includes, for example, a request to stop power transmitted from the information processing terminal 40 held by the worker M to the network N. In addition, it includes restrictions on the usage time and the upper limit of the usable power usage specified in the contract with the power company 2 or specified by the worker when applying for permission. In step S105, if the usage of the power supplied to the dwelling satisfies the power supply stop condition (step S105, "Yes"), the process proceeds to S106. If not (step S105, "No"), the power supply is continued and the process waits until the power usage satisfies the power supply stop condition.

[0056] In step S106, an instruction to stop power supply to the smart meter 31 identified by the unique ID is issued through the network N, and when information indicating that power is not being used (for example, a blank field when power is not being used) is stored in the power usage DB 14, the process proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the amount of power (kWh) temporarily used in the residence measured by the smart meter 31 is acquired through the network N, and the amount of power used is recorded in the power usage DB 14. The power management device 10 stores the acquired amount of power used in the power usage DB 14, for example, in association with the terminal ID of the information processing terminal 40 that has accepted the application for permission to use temporary power, and information indicating the period during which power was temporarily used (start time, end time). The amount of power used stored in the power usage DB 14 is tallied for each predetermined period, for example, monthly, and a payment fee based on the tallied amount of power used is charged to the management company 50 to which the worker M1 belongs. After the process of step S107 is completed, this routine is temporarily terminated.

[0057] As described above, in the power management system 1 according to the present embodiment, when a request (application for permission) for power use that satisfies a predetermined condition is received, the power use in a dwelling unit 30 for which no power use contract exists can be temporarily permitted. The power management device 10 according to the present embodiment can determine whether or not power use is permitted based on the identification information (terminal ID) of the information processing terminal 40 possessed by the worker included in the request for power use, and the authentication information (password, etc.) previously given to the service contractor (management company 50). Furthermore, the power management device 10 can identify the dwelling unit 30 (smart meter 31) that is the target of temporary power use based on the unique ID of the smart meter 31 included in the request for power use. Then, the power management device 10 can control the power supply by the smart meter 31 of the identified dwelling unit 30, and control the temporary use and suspension of power use in the dwelling unit. The power management device 10 controls the temporary use and suspension of power use in the dwelling unit based on, for example, a usage time limit, an upper limit of the amount of usable power usage, and an upper limit of the current capacity value, which are specified in a contract with the power company 2 or by an operator when applying for permission. The power management device 10 can acquire the amount of power used in the dwelling unit measured via the smart meter 31 through the network N. The acquired amount of power usage can be stored in the power usage DB 14 in association with the terminal ID of the information processing terminal 40 that accepted the application for permission to use temporary power, and information indicating the period during which power was temporarily used (start time, end time). The power management device 10 can bill the service contract holder for the usage fee based on the amount of power usage stored in the power usage DB 14. According to the power management system 1 of this embodiment, even in a dwelling unit where the resident does not have a power usage contract, it is possible to individually manage the power usage in the dwelling unit, thereby improving convenience.

[0058] (others) The above embodiment is merely an example, and the disclosure of the present embodiment may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The processes and means described in the present disclosure may be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0059] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Or, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by one device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration for implementing each function can be flexibly changed.

[0060] <Computer-readable recording medium> A program for causing an information processing device or other machine or device (hereinafter, computer, etc.) to realize any of the above functions can be recorded on a recording medium readable by the computer, etc. Then, the computer, etc. can provide the function by reading and executing the program from the recording medium.

[0061] Here, a computer-readable recording medium refers to a recording medium that stores information such as data and programs through electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical action and can be read by a computer, etc. Among such recording media, those that can be removed from a computer, etc. include, for example, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-R / Ws, DVDs, Blu-ray disks, DATs, 8mm tapes, memory cards such as flash memory, etc. Furthermore, examples of recording media that are fixed to a computer, etc. include hard disks and ROMs.

[0062] In the following, the components of the present invention will be described with reference to the reference numerals in the drawings in order to make it possible to compare the components of the present invention with the configurations of the embodiments. <Invention 1> From the power system (3) 1 or more dwelling units A power management system (1) for managing a usage status of power supplied to a power supply device (30), a power meter (31) having a communication function that is connected to the power system (3) and is provided for each dwelling unit (30), the power meter (31) stopping the supply of power supplied from the power system (3) to the dwelling unit (30) through the power meter (31) and lifting the stop of the power supply, and measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling unit (30); a power management device (10) connected to the power meter (31) through a communication network (N), which issues instructions to stop the supply of power supplied to the dwelling unit (30) through the power meter (31) and to lift the stop of the power supply based on a power usage contract for the dwelling unit (30) in which the power meter (31) is installed, and which performs billing based on the amount of power usage measured by the power meter (30); The power management device (10) receives a request for power use in the dwelling unit (30) for which no power use contract exists, and when the request for power use satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device (10) includes a control unit (11) that instructs the power meter (31) installed in the dwelling unit (30) to lift the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit (30) and temporarily permits the use of power supplied from the power system (3) to the dwelling unit (30). A power management system (1). [Explanation of symbols]

[0063] 1. Power Management System 2. Electric power companies 3. Power Supply System 10 Power management device 11 Control section 12 Billing Department 13 Contractor DB 14 Power usage DB 20 Apartment complex 30 dwelling units 31 Smart Meter 40 Information processing terminal 50 Management Company 101 Processor 102 Main storage 103 Auxiliary storage device 104 Communication Interface 105 Input / Output Interface 106 Connection Bus

Claims

1. An electricity management system for managing the usage status of electricity supplied from an electricity grid to one or more dwelling units, a power meter having a communication function, which is connected to the power system and is provided for each dwelling unit, the power meter stopping and resuming the supply of power from the power system to the dwelling unit through the power meter, and measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling unit; a power management device that is connected to the power meter through a communication network, and issues instructions to stop the supply of power supplied to the dwelling through the power meter and to lift the stop of the power supply based on the power usage contract for the dwelling in which the power meter is installed, and that bills for the amount of power usage measured by the power meter; The power management device receives a request for power usage in the dwelling unit for which the power usage contract does not exist, and when the request for power usage satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device includes a control unit that instructs the power meter installed in the dwelling unit to release the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit and temporarily permits the use of power supplied to the dwelling unit from the power system. A power management system comprising:

2. The request is made via a pre-registered predetermined terminal, The power management system of claim 1, characterized in that the control unit instructs the power meter identified by the unique ID to lift the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit, on condition that the request for power usage includes a unique ID that identifies the power meter, authentication information for permitting temporary use of power supplied from the power system to the dwelling unit having the unique ID, and identification information of the terminal associated with the authentication information.

3. The power management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit instructs the power meter that has been temporarily permitted to use power within the dwelling to stop supplying power from the power system to the dwelling based on the usage time of the power used within the dwelling.

4. The power management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit instructs the power meter that has been temporarily permitted to use power within the dwelling to stop supplying power from the power system to the dwelling based on an upper limit value of the amount of power used within the dwelling.

5. 5. The power management system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit bills for a fee based on the amount of power used, the fee being an amount that is increased from the basic fee in the power usage contract for the dwelling unit.

6. A management method executed by a power management device of a power management system that manages the usage status of power supplied from a power grid to one or more dwelling units, comprising: The power management system includes: a power meter having a communication function, which is connected to the power system and is provided for each dwelling unit, the power meter stopping and resuming the supply of power from the power system to the dwelling unit through the power meter, and measuring the amount of power used in the dwelling unit; a power management device that is connected to the power meter through a communication network, and issues instructions to stop the supply of power supplied to the dwelling through the power meter and to lift the stop of the power supply based on the power usage contract for the dwelling in which the power meter is installed, and that bills for the amount of power usage measured by the power meter; when a request for power use in the dwelling unit for which no power use contract exists is received and the request for power use satisfies a predetermined condition, the power management device instructs the power meter installed in the dwelling unit to release the suspension of power supply to the dwelling unit, and temporarily permits the use of power supplied to the dwelling unit from the power grid; A power management method for performing the above.

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