Power management system and power management method

Abstract

To provide a power management system and a power management method capable of properly executing VPP control.SOLUTION: A power management system includes one or more distributed power supplies installed in one or more facilities connected to a power system and a power management device that performs remote control of the one or more distributed power supplies. A specified distributed power supply included in the one or more distributed power supplies limits the acceptance of local control at the facility when the remote control is set by the power management device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power management system and a power management method.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to maintain the power supply-demand balance of the power system, a technology (for example, VPP (Virtual Power Plant)) that uses a power storage device as a distributed power source is known.

[0003] Furthermore, in the case of using a power storage device as a distributed power source, a technology has also been proposed in which the discharge power of the power storage device is used by VPP until the SOC (State Of Charge) of the power storage device reaches a specific ratio (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In VPP, it is also assumed that a distributed power source is controlled by a power management device managed by an RA (Resource Aggregator) or the like (hereinafter, remote control). On the other hand, it is also assumed that a distributed power source is controlled at a facility using a controller or the like used in user operation of the distributed power source (hereinafter, local control).

[0006] In such a case, even if remote control is executed according to a control plan regarding VPP control, it is assumed that the distributed power source performs an operation different from the remote control by local control, and there is a possibility that VPP control according to the control plan cannot be realized.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a power management system and a power management method that enable appropriate execution of VPP control.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] One aspect of the disclosure is a power management system including one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power grid, and a power management device that executes remote control of the one or more distributed power sources, wherein a specific distributed power source included in the one or more distributed power sources restricts reception of local control in the facility when remote control is set by the power management device.

[0009] One aspect of the disclosure is a power management method including step A in which a power management device executes remote control of one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power grid, and step B in which a specific distributed power source included in the one or more distributed power sources restricts reception of local control in the facility when remote control is set by the power management device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a power management system and a power management method that enable appropriate execution of VPP control.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, the drawings are schematic.

[0013] [Embodiment] (Power Management System) Hereinafter, the power management system according to the embodiment will be described. The power management system may simply be referred to as a power system.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the power management system 1 has a facility 100. The power management system 1 includes a lower-level management server 200, a higher-level management server 300, and a third-party server 400.

[0015] Here, the facility 100, the lower-level management server 200, the higher-level management server 300, and the third-party server 400 are configured to be communicable via a network 11. The network 11 may include the Internet, may include a dedicated line such as a VPN (Virtual Private Network), or may include a mobile communication network.

[0016] Facility 100 is connected to the power grid 12 and may be supplied with power from the power grid 12 or supply power to the power grid 12. The power from the power grid 12 to Facility 100 may be referred to as forward power flow. The power from Facility 100 to the power grid 12 may be referred to as reverse power flow. In FIG. 1, Facilities 100A to 100C are illustrated as Facility 100.

[0017] Although not particularly limited, Facility 100 may be a facility such as a house, a facility such as a store, or a facility such as an office. Facility 100 may be an apartment building including two or more houses. Facility 100 may be a complex facility including at least two or more of houses, stores, and offices. Details of Facility 100 will be described later (see FIG. 2). Note that the user who owns or manages Facility 100 may also be referred to as Facility 100.

[0018] The subordinate management server 200 is managed by an operator who manages power related to the power grid 12 or Facility 100. The operator may be a Resource Aggregator (RA).

[0019] Hereinafter, a case where the subordinate management server 200 is managed by an RA will be exemplified. The subordinate management server 200 may also be referred to as an RA, and the RA may also be referred to as the subordinate management server 200. Details of the subordinate management server 200 will be described later (see FIG. 4).

[0020] In the embodiment, the subordinate management server 200 may constitute a power management device that executes remote control of one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more Facilities 100 (hereinafter, may also be referred to as a facility group 100).

[0021] Here, the lower-level management server 200 transmits the control commands received from the upper-level management server 300 to the facility 100 (which may include the power storage device 120 and the EMS 160 described later). The control commands are commands used in the adjustment of the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12 (VPP (Virtual Power Plant) control), and are commands for controlling the distributed power source (for example, the power storage device 120) installed in the facility 100. The lower-level management server 200 transmits the measurement data received from the facility 100 (which may include the power storage device 120 and the EMS 160 described later) to the upper-level management server 300. The measurement data is data on the power (discharge power or charge power) of the distributed power source (for example, the power storage device 120) installed in the facility 100.

[0022] Furthermore, the lower-level management server 200 may provide maintenance and management services for the distributed power source (for example, the power storage device 120) installed in the facility 100. According to such a configuration, since the lower-level management server 200 has information on the distributed power source in advance, even after it is installed in the facility 100, the distributed power source can be easily and simply utilized in the VPP using the information accumulated in the lower-level management server 200.

[0023] The upper management server 300 is managed by an operator who manages the power related to the power system 12. The upper management server 300 may be managed by an operator who provides various services. The upper management server 300 may be referred to as an AEMS (Area Energy Management System). The operator may be a retail electricity provider. The retail electricity provider may include a regional electricity provider (general electricity provider) that manages the infrastructure such as the power system 12, and may also include a new electricity provider other than the regional electricity provider. The new electricity provider may be assumed to sell electricity to the facility by procuring electricity from the electricity market. The electricity market may include a wholesale electricity market related to the transaction of the electricity (procured electricity) supplied to the facility 100, may include a power adjustment market related to the adjustment of the power supply-demand gap after the gate closure of the wholesale electricity market, and may include a capacity market related to the transaction of the supply capacity (for example, reverse power flow electricity). The electricity market may include the transaction of electricity with other retail electricity providers. The electricity market may include the transaction of electricity with other power generation providers. That is, the electricity market may be an exchange for conducting electricity transactions regardless of forms such as one-to-one, one-to-many, or many-to-many.

[0024] The service may include a service for suppressing the difference (imbalance) between the planned value related to the forward power flow electricity (hereinafter, may also be referred to as procured electricity) of the facility group 100 and the actual value related to the procured electricity of the facility group 100 to be within a predetermined difference. The service may include a service for suppressing the difference (imbalance) between the planned value related to the reverse power flow electricity (hereinafter, may also be referred to as generated electricity) of the facility group 100 and the actual value related to the generated electricity of the facility group 100 to be within a predetermined difference.

[0025] Hereinafter, a case where the upper management server 300 is managed by a new electricity provider will be exemplified. The upper management server 300 may also be referred to as a new electricity provider, and the new electricity provider may also be referred to as the upper management server 300. Details of the upper management server 300 will be described later (see FIG. 3).

[0026] In an embodiment, the new power provider may be an example of a retail electricity provider that sells electricity to each of one or more facilities 100.

[0027] The third-party server 400 is managed by an operator who manages the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12. The operator may manage the power market related to the power grid 12. For example, the third-party server 400 may have a function of checking the imbalance of the procured power. The third-party server 400 may have a function of checking the imbalance of the generated power. For example, the third-party server may perform the operations shown below.

[0028] First, the third-party server 400 may check whether the difference (imbalance) between the planned value and the actual value of the procured power exceeds a predetermined difference. The planned value and the actual value may be aggregated for a unit period (e.g., every 30 minutes), and the imbalance may be checked for a unit period (e.g., every 30 minutes). When the imbalance exceeds the predetermined difference, the third-party server 400 may impose a penalty on the operator (e.g., the new power provider) who manages the upper-level management server 300. When the imbalance does not exceed the predetermined difference, the third-party server 400 may give an incentive to the operator (e.g., the new power provider) who manages the upper-level management server 300. The penalty and the incentive may be monetary.

[0029] Second, the third-party server 400 may check whether the difference (imbalance) between the planned value and the actual value of the generated power exceeds a predetermined difference. The planned value and the actual value may be aggregated for a unit period (e.g., every 30 minutes), and the imbalance may be checked for a unit period (e.g., every 30 minutes). When the imbalance exceeds the predetermined difference, the third-party server 400 may impose a penalty on the operator (e.g., the new power provider) who manages the upper-level management server 300. When the imbalance does not exceed the predetermined difference, the third-party server 400 may give an incentive to the operator (e.g., the new power provider) who manages the upper-level management server 300. The penalty and the incentive may be monetary.

[0030] Here, the period during which the imbalance between the generated power and the procured power is confirmed may be defined as the target period (for example, one day). In such a case, the planned value regarding the procured power may include a plan formulated at a timing prior to the target period (for example, 12:00 on the day before the target period). The planned value regarding the generated power may include a planned value formulated at a timing prior to the target period (for example, 12:00 on the day before the target period). Further, the planned value regarding the procured power may include a planned value formulated at a timing prior to the unit period included in the target period (for example, one hour before the unit period). The planned value regarding the generated power may include a planned value formulated at a timing prior to the unit period included in the target period (for example, one hour before the unit period).

[0031] Although not particularly limited, the planned value and the actual value regarding the procured power may be reported from the lower-level management server 200 or the upper-level management server 300. The planned value and the actual value regarding the generated power may be reported from the lower-level management server 200 or the upper-level management server 300.

[0032] (Facility) Hereinafter, the facility according to the embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the facility 100 includes a solar power generation device 110, a power storage device 120, a fuel cell device 130, a load device 140, and an EMS (Energy Management System) 160. The facility 100 may include a measuring device 190.

[0033] The solar power generation device 110 is a distributed power source that generates electricity in response to light such as sunlight. For example, the solar power generation device 110 is composed of a PCS (Power Conditioning System) and solar panels. Here, the installation may mean that the solar power generation device 110 and the power grid 12 are connected.

[0034] The energy storage device 120 is a distributed power source that charges and discharges electric power. For example, the energy storage device 120 is composed of a PCS and energy storage cells. Here, installation may mean that the energy storage device 120 and the power grid 12 are connected. In the following, the energy storage device 120 is an example of a distributed power source used for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12. In other words, the energy storage device 120 is an example of a distributed power source whose remote control is set by the subordinate management server 200. The energy storage device 120 may also be considered as an example of a distributed power source used for VPP control.

[0035] The fuel cell device 130 is a distributed power source that generates electricity using fuel. For example, the fuel cell device 130 is composed of a PCS and fuel cells. Here, installation may mean that the fuel cell device 130 and the power grid 12 are connected.

[0036] For example, the fuel cell device 130 may be a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC), a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC), or a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC).

[0037] The load device 140 is a device that consumes electric power. For example, the load device 140 may include an air conditioner, a heat pump water heater, a lighting device, etc.

[0038] The EMS 160 manages the power related to the facility 100. The EMS 160 may control the solar power generation device 110, the power storage device 120, the fuel cell device 130, and the load equipment 140. In the embodiment, the EMS 160 is exemplified as a device that receives a control command from the subordinate management server 200, but such a device may be referred to as a Gateway or simply as a control unit. To distinguish the EMS 160 from the subordinate management server 200, it may be referred to as a LEMS (Local EMS), a HEMS (Home EMS), or a VPP controller. Details of the EMS 160 will be described later (see FIG. 5).

[0039] The measurement device 190 measures the forward power flow (hereinafter also referred to as demand power) from the power grid 12 to the facility 100. The measurement device 190 may measure the reverse power flow from the facility 100 to the power grid 12. For example, the measurement device 190 may be a Smart Meter belonging to an electric power company. The measurement device 190 may transmit an information element indicating the measurement result (integrated value of forward power flow or reverse power flow) in the first interval (e.g., 30 minutes) to the EMS 160 for each first interval. The measurement device 190 may transmit an information element indicating the measurement result in a second interval (e.g., 1 minute) shorter than the first interval to the EMS 160.

[0040] (Superordinate management server) Hereinafter, the superordinate management server according to the embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the superordinate management server 300 includes a communication unit 310, a management unit 320, and a control unit 330.

[0041] The communication unit 310 is composed of a communication module. The communication module may be a wireless communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax, ZigBee, Wi-SUN, LTE, 5G, 6G, etc., or a wired communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.3.

[0042] For example, when it is necessary to adjust the power balance of the power system 12, the communication unit 310 may transmit a control command instructing the remote control of the distributed power source (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) to the lower-level management server 200. The control command may include information indicating the total adjustment power of the power storage device 120 managed by the lower-level management server 200, may include information indicating the adjustment power of each of the power storage devices 120 (hereinafter, individual adjustment power), and may include information indicating the adjustment time period during which it is necessary to adjust the power balance of the power system 12. Specifically, the control command including information indicating the total adjustment power of the power storage device 120 managed by the lower-level management server 200 means to create a certain predetermined adjustment power using a plurality of power storage devices 120 managed by the lower-level management server 200, for example, to instruct to discharge 70 kW. Also, the control command including information indicating the adjustment power of each of the power storage devices 120 means to instruct each of the plurality of power storage devices 120 managed by the lower-level management server 200 to create a certain predetermined adjustment power, for example, to instruct to discharge 700 W. Also, the control command including information indicating the adjustment time period during which it is necessary to adjust the power balance of the power system 12 means to instruct the power storage device 120 to discharge during the time period when it creates the adjustment power, for example, between 17:00 and 18:00.

[0043] The control command may include information indicating the operation mode of the power storage device 120. The operation mode may include a mode for executing the discharge of the power storage device 120 (forced discharge mode), a mode for executing the charge of the power storage device 120 (forced charge mode), a mode for charging the surplus power of the solar cell device 110 (green mode), and the like.

[0044] The adjustment power of the power storage device 120 may include the discharge power of the power storage device 120 and may include the charge power of the power storage device 120. Therefore, the total adjustment power may include the total discharge power and may include the total charge power. Similarly, the individual adjustment power may include the individual discharge power and may include the individual charge power. The adjustment time period may include the discharge time period and may include the charge time period. Note that the adjustment power of the power storage device 120 (distributed power source) may be replaced with the reverse power flow or forward power flow of the facility 100.

[0045] The management unit 320 is composed of storage media such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and non-volatile memory.

[0046] For example, the management unit 320 may manage the amount of power that can be adjusted by the facility group 100.

[0047] The control unit 330 may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be composed of a single integrated circuit (IC), or may be composed of a plurality of circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) communicably connected.

[0048] For example, the control unit 330 may instruct the communication unit 210 to transmit a control command for instructing remote control of the distributed power source (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) based on the control plan of the distributed power source. The control plan is a plan for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12.

[0049] Although not particularly limited, the control unit 330 may identify the time period when there is a shortage or excess of power in the power grid 12 based on the prediction of the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12, and generate a control command for instructing remote control of the distributed power source to eliminate the shortage or excess of power in the power grid 12 during the identified time period.

[0050] (Lower-level management server) Hereinafter, the lower-level management server according to the embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the lower-level management server 200 includes a communication unit 210, a management unit 220, and a control unit 230.

[0051] The communication unit 210 is composed of a communication module. The communication module may be a wireless communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax, ZigBee, Wi-SUN, LTE, 5G, 6G, etc., or may be a wired communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.3.

[0052] For example, the communication unit 210 may receive a control command for instructing remote control of the distributed power source (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) from the upper management server 300. The communication unit 210 may transmit a control command for instructing remote control of the distributed power source (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) to the facility 100.

[0053] The communication unit 210 may receive facility information of the facility 100. The facility information may include information indicating the configuration of the distributed power source possessed by the facility 100, and may include information indicating the specifications of the distributed power source possessed by the facility 100. The facility information may include information indicating whether to participate in the adjustment of the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12 (for example, VPP control).

[0054] Note that the communication unit 210 may receive a planned value regarding the generated power of each of the facilities 100. The communication unit 210 may receive a planned value regarding the demanded power of each of the facilities 100.

[0055] The communication unit 210 may transmit a control command for controlling the devices installed in each of the facilities 100. The devices installed in each of the facilities 100 may include distributed power sources such as the solar power generation device 110, the power storage device 120, and the fuel cell device 130. The devices installed in each of the facilities 100 may include the load equipment 140.

[0056] The management unit 220 is composed of a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), and a non-volatile memory.

[0057] For example, the management unit 220 may constitute a management unit for managing one or more facilities 100 connected to the power grid 12. The management of the one or more facilities 100 may be read as the management of one or more distributed power sources connected to the power grid 12.

[0058] The management department 220 may manage information regarding the facility 100. For example, the information regarding the facility 100 may be the type of distributed power sources (solar cell device 110, power storage device 120, or fuel cell device 130) provided in the facility 100, the specifications of the distributed power sources (solar cell device 110, power storage device 120, or fuel cell device 130) provided in the facility 100, and the like. The specifications may include the rated power generation power of the solar cell device 110, the rated charging power of the power storage device 120, the rated discharging power of the power storage device 120, and the rated output power of the fuel cell device 130. The specifications may also include the rated capacity of the power storage device 120, the maximum charge / discharge power, and the like.

[0059] The control unit 230 may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be constituted by a single integrated circuit (IC), or may be constituted by a plurality of circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) communicably connected.

[0060] For example, the control unit 230 may perform remote control of one or more distributed power sources (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) connected to the power grid 12. The control unit 230 may perform remote control of the distributed power source according to a control command received from the upper management server 300. The execution may include setting of remote control (transmission or reception of a control command) and the operation of the power storage device 120 according to the control command. The following options may be assumed as the operation of the control unit 230 in the remote control of the distributed power source.

[0061] In Option 1, the control unit 230 may perform remote control of transparently transmitting a control command received from the upper management server 300 to the facility 100. That is, the control unit 230 may perform remote control of relaying the control command received from the upper management server 300 to the facility 100 without performing processing such as allocation of adjustment power of the distributed power source.

[0062] In Option 2, the control unit 230 may execute remote control in which, with reference to the control command received from the upper management server 300, it allocates the adjustment power of the distributed power sources and then transmits a control command including information indicating the adjustment power of each distributed power source to the facility 100. For example, the control unit 230 may allocate the adjustment power of the distributed power sources so as to secure the total adjustment power and execute remote control to transmit a control command including information indicating the allocated adjustment power to the facility 100. The control unit 230 may allocate different adjustment time zones to the distributed power sources.

[0063] Although not particularly limited, the control unit 230 may collect (receive) in advance from the facility 100 information indicating the adjustable power of the distributed power sources and allocate the adjustment power to the distributed power sources based on the adjustable power. Similarly, the control unit 230 may collect (receive) in advance from the facility 100 information indicating the adjustable time zones of the distributed power sources and allocate the adjustment time zones to the distributed power sources based on the adjustable time zones.

[0064] (EMS) Hereinafter, the EMS according to the embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the EMS 160 includes a first communication unit 161, a second communication unit 162, and a control unit 163.

[0065] The first communication unit 161 is constituted by a communication module. The communication module may be a wireless communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax, ZigBee, Wi-SUN, LTE, 5G, 6G, etc., or may be a wired communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.3 or a proprietary dedicated protocol.

[0066] For example, the first communication unit 161 constitutes a first communication unit that communicates with the lower-level management server 200 via the network 11. The first communication unit 161 may receive a control command for instructing remote control of the distributed power source (in the embodiment, the power storage device 120) from the lower-level management server 200. The control command may include information indicating the individual adjustment power that each power storage device 120 should control, and may also include information indicating the time period during which the power storage device 120 is to be remotely controlled, for example, the adjustment time period when VPP control is required. The control command may include information indicating the operation mode of the power storage device 120 specified by remote control.

[0067] The first communication unit 161 may communicate with the load device 140 and may also communicate with the measuring device 190.

[0068] The second communication unit 162 is constituted by a communication module. The communication module may be a wireless communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax, ZigBee, Wi-SUN, LTE, 5G, 6G, etc., or may be a wired communication module compliant with standards such as IEEE802.3, RS485, or a proprietary dedicated protocol.

[0069] For example, the second communication unit 162 may communicate with the solar cell device 110, the power storage device 120, and the fuel cell device 130. Although signal lines are omitted in FIG. 2, the second communication unit 162 may communicate with the load device 140 and may also communicate with the measuring device 190.

[0070] The control unit 163 controls the EMS 160. The control unit 163 may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be constituted by a single integrated circuit (IC), or may be constituted by a plurality of circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) communicably connected.

[0071] For example, the control unit 163 may control the solar power generation device 110, the power storage device 120, and the fuel cell device 130. The control unit 163 may also control the load device 140.

[0072] (Operation example) Hereinafter, an operation example according to the embodiment will be described. In the following, a case where it is a distributed power source used for VPP control will be exemplified. As control of the power storage device 120, remote control and local control are assumed.

[0073] Remote control is control (VPP control) related to adjustment of the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12. Remote control is control according to a control command received from the subordinate management server 200. On the other hand, local control is control in the facility 100 and includes control for suppressing the power charge, control for suppressing the peak power, and the like. Local control may be control according to the operation of the user of the facility 100 using a controller used in the user operation of the power storage device 120. Local control may include control using the EMS 160. For example, at least the power storage device 120 instructed for remote control may transmit the operation status of the power storage device 120 to the subordinate management server 200 at a predetermined interval.

[0074] Here, after the operation of the power storage device 120 is set by remote control, if the remote control is changed to local control, the adjustment (VPP control) of the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12 cannot be appropriately executed according to the control plan.

[0075] Therefore, in the operation example, when remote control is set by the lower-level management server 200 for a specific power storage device included in one or more power storage devices 120, reception of local control is restricted. The setting of remote control may be replaced with transmission or reception of a control command. The reception restriction of local control may be executed by the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 in response to an instruction from the lower-level management server 200. A specific power storage device is one in which execution of reception restriction of local control is scheduled among the power storage devices 120. Thus, even for the same power storage device 120, there are times when it becomes a specific power storage device and times when it does not, depending on the reception restriction time, remaining amount state, etc. Being set as a specific power storage device and cancellation of the setting are performed by a control command.

[0076] Local control for which reception restriction is assumed includes power control related to change in regulated power of the power storage device 120, and may not include control other than power control. The power control for which reception restriction is assumed may be considered as control that inhibits remote control, and may include at least a change in the operation mode. The power control may include control such as a change to a discharge power lower than the discharge power instructed by remote control, and a change to a charge power lower than the charge power instructed by remote control. On the other hand, if the regulated power (discharge power or charge power) instructed by remote control is ensured, local control involving a change in regulated power may not be restricted. Control other than power control may include control related to display of the power state of the facility 100.

[0077] Here, the restriction of local control may include operations such as (a) preventing transmission of local control, (b) not receiving local control, (c) receiving local control but ignoring it, and (d) receiving local control but ignoring local control that instructs a change in remote control.

[0078] In the operation example, the subordinate management server 200 transmits information (hereinafter referred to as the reception restriction flag) instructing reception restriction of local control to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 where the specific power storage device is installed. When the power storage device 120 or the EMS 160 receives the reception restriction flag, it restricts the reception of local control for the specific power storage device. As variations of the operation example, the following variations can be considered.

[0079] (Operation Example 1) In Operation Example 1, the subordinate management server 200 selects a specific power storage device based on determination conditions related to one or more power storage devices 120. As the determination conditions, the following options can be considered.

[0080] In Option 1, the determination condition may be whether the power storage device 120 is registered in the subordinate management server 200 (for example, the management unit 220) as a specific power storage device. The subordinate management server 200 does not select a power storage device 120 that is not registered in the management unit 220 as a specific power storage device, but selects a power storage device 120 registered in the management unit 220 as a specific power storage device.

[0081] In Option 2, the determination condition may be whether there is a contract restricting the reception of local control in remote control. The contract may be a contract between the facility 100 and the subordinate management server 200. The subordinate management server 200 does not select a power storage device 120 without a contract restricting the reception of local control in remote control as a specific power storage device, but selects a power storage device 120 with a contract restricting the reception of local control in remote control as a specific power storage device.

[0082] In Option 3, the determination condition may be whether or not the power storage device 120 participates in the adjustment of the power supply-demand balance of the power system 12 (VPP control). The lower-level management server 200 selects the power storage device 120 that participates in the VPP control as the specific power storage device without selecting the power storage device 120 that does not participate in the VPP control as the specific power storage device. In other words, the lower-level management server 200 does not select the power storage device 120 installed in the facility 100 that has not approved participation in the VPP control as the specific power storage device, but selects the power storage device 120 installed in the facility 100 that has approved participation in the VPP control as the specific power storage device.

[0083] In Option 4, the determination condition may be whether or not the remaining charge amount of the power storage device 120 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The remaining charge amount may be represented by the power remaining in the power storage device 120 or may be represented by the SOC. The lower-level management server 200 does not select the power storage device 120 with a remaining charge amount less than the threshold value as the specific power storage device, but selects the power storage device 120 with a remaining charge amount equal to or greater than the threshold value as the specific power storage device. Option 4 may be used in a case where the VPP control involves discharging of the power storage device 120.

[0084] In Option 5, the determination condition may be whether or not the remaining charging capacity of the power storage device 120 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The remaining charging capacity may be represented by the remaining empty capacity in the power storage device 120 or may be represented by 100% - SOC. The lower-level management server 200 does not select the power storage device 120 with a remaining charging capacity less than the threshold value as the specific power storage device, but selects the power storage device 120 with a remaining charging capacity equal to or greater than the threshold value as the specific power storage device. Option 5 may be used in a case where the VPP control involves charging of the power storage device 120.

[0085] In Option 6, two or more options selected from the above-described Options 1 to 5 may be combined.

[0086] For example, taking the case where the VPP control involves discharging of the power storage device 120 as an example, it will be described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0087] First, the upper management server 300 transmits a control command to the lower management server 200 based on a control plan. The control command includes information indicating total discharge power, individual discharge power, discharge time zone, and the like.

[0088] Second, the lower management server 200 selects a specific power storage device based on determination conditions, and transmits a control command to the facility group 100 where the selected specific power storage device is installed. The control command includes an acceptance restriction flag together with information indicating individual discharge power, discharge time zone, and operation mode.

[0089] According to Operation Example 1, the lower management server 200 selects a specific power storage device based on determination conditions. According to such a configuration, an appropriate power storage device 120 can be selected as the specific power storage device.

[0090] (Operation Example 2) In Operation Example 2, when instructed by an upper device (in the embodiment, the upper management server 300), the lower management server 200 transmits information for instructing acceptance restriction of local control to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 where the specific power storage device is installed. The determination conditions used for selecting the specific power storage device may be the same as those in Operation Example 1.

[0091] Here, the upper management server 300 transmits information (for example, an acceptance restriction request) for requesting restriction of acceptance of local control to the lower management server 200 together with a control command. The lower management server 200 may select a specific power storage device based on determination conditions in response to the acceptance restriction request.

[0092] For example, a case where VPP control involves discharge of the power storage device 120 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0093] First, the upper management server 300 transmits a control command to the lower management server 200 based on a control plan. The control command includes information indicating total discharge power, individual discharge power, discharge time zone, and the like. The upper management server 300 transmits an acceptance restriction request to the lower management server 200 together with a control command.

[0094] Second, in response to a reception restriction request, the lower-level management server 200 selects a specific power storage device based on determination conditions, and transmits a control command to the facility group 100 where the selected specific power storage device is installed. The control command includes a reception restriction flag together with information indicating individual discharge power, a discharge time zone, and an operation mode.

[0095] According to Operation Example 2, when instructed by the upper-level management server 300, the lower-level management server 200 transmits information instructing reception restriction of local control. With such a configuration, adjustment power for remote control can be secured when determined necessary by the upper-level management server 300.

[0096] (Operation Example 3) In Operation Example 3, when specific conditions regarding the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control are satisfied, the lower-level management server 200 transmits information instructing reception restriction of local control to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 where the specific power storage device is installed. The specific power storage device is selected from among the power storage devices 120 whose remote control has not been changed to local control. The determination conditions used for selecting the specific power storage device may be the same as those in Operation Example 1. Here, the following options can be considered as specific conditions.

[0097] In Option 1, the specific condition may be that the number of power storage devices 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control (hereinafter referred to as the number of changed devices) is equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the number of changed devices has not reached the threshold value, the lower-level management server 200 does not transmit a reception restriction flag, and when the number of changed devices has reached the threshold value, the lower-level management server 200 transmits a reception restriction flag to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 where the specific power storage device is installed.

[0098] In Option 2, the specific condition may be that the ratio of the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control (hereinafter referred to as the changed device ratio) is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The changed device ratio may be the ratio with respect to the total number of power storage devices 120 for which remote control is set. When the changed device ratio has not reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 does not transmit the reception restriction flag, and when the changed device ratio has reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 transmits the reception restriction flag to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 in which the specific power storage device is installed.

[0099] In Option 3, the specific condition may be that the change width of the discharge power of the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control is equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the change width of the discharge power has not reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 does not transmit the reception restriction flag, and when the change width of the discharge power has reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 transmits the reception restriction flag to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 in which the specific power storage device is installed. The change width may be the amount of electric power, or may be the remaining amount ratio of the power storage device 120. Option 3 may be used in the case where the VPP control is a control involving the discharge of the power storage device 120.

[0100] In Option 4, the specific condition may be that the change width of the charging power of the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control is equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the change width of the charging power has not reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 does not transmit the reception restriction flag, and when the change width of the charging power has reached the threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 transmits the reception restriction flag to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 in which the specific power storage device is installed. Option 4 may be used in the case where the VPP control is a control involving the charging of the power storage device 120.

[0101] In Option 5, two or more options selected from the above-described Options 1 to 4 may be combined.

[0102] For example, taking the case where the VPP control involves the discharge of the power storage device 120 as an example, it will be described with reference to FIG. 8.

[0103] First, the upper management server 300 transmits a control command to the lower management server 200 based on the control plan. The control command includes information indicating the total discharge power, individual discharge power, discharge time zone, and the like.

[0104] Second, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 8, the lower management server 200 transmits a control command to the facility group 100. The control command includes information indicating the individual discharge power, discharge time zone, and operation mode.

[0105] Third, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 8, when the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control satisfies a specific condition, the lower management server 200 transmits a control command including an acceptance restriction flag to the facility group 100M in which the power storage device 120 whose remote control has not been changed to local control is installed. For example, in FIG. 8, a specific condition where the number of changed devices (number of facilities) reaches 20 is illustrated.

[0106] Note that in FIG. 8, the facility group in which the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control is installed is represented as the facility group 100N in order to distinguish it from the facility group 100M. A control command including an acceptance restriction flag is not transmitted to the facility group 100N.

[0107] Although not particularly limited, the specific condition may be determined so as to ensure the total discharge power (for example, 70,000 W). That is, when assuming a case where a discharge of 700 W is allocated to one facility 100, the specific condition may be determined so that 100 facilities 100 are ensured.

[0108] According to Operation Example 3, when the power storage device 120 whose remote control has been changed to local control satisfies a specific condition, the lower management server 200 transmits information (for example, an acceptance restriction flag) instructing the acceptance restriction of local control to the specific power storage device or the facility 100 in which the specific power storage device is installed. According to such a configuration, it is possible to secure the adjustment power of remote control without excessively restricting local control.

[0109] (Operation Example 4) In Operation Example 4, the lower-level management server 200 sets remote control for one or more power storage devices 120 based on a control plan required for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power system 12. The control plan may be formulated by the upper-level management server 300. The control plan may be considered as the total adjustment power included in the control command received from the upper-level management server 300. That is, the lower-level management server 200 allocates the individual adjustment power and the adjustment time zone to the power storage device 120 so as to ensure the total adjustment power, and transmits a control command including the allocated individual adjustment power and adjustment time zone. Although not particularly limited, the determination conditions used for selecting a specific power storage device for which the reception restriction flag is transmitted may be the same as those in Operation Example 1.

[0110] Here, the lower-level management server 200 may set remote control for a specific power storage device without setting remote control for at least some of the power storage devices 120 other than the specific power storage device among the power storage devices 120 to be remotely controlled. The setting of remote control may be read as the transmission or reception of a control command.

[0111] For example, a case where VPP control involves discharging of the power storage device 120 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, the facility group 100 where a specific distributed power source is installed is represented by the facility group 100P, and the facility group 100 where no specific distributed power source is installed is represented by the facility group 100Q.

[0112] First, the upper-level management server 300 transmits a control command to the lower-level management server 200 based on the control plan. The control command includes information indicating the total discharge power, the individual discharge power, the discharge time zone, and the like.

[0113] Second, the subordinate management server 200 selects a specific power storage device from one or more power storage devices 120 based on the control plan. For example, the subordinate management server 200 selects a specific power storage device so that the total discharge power (e.g., 70,000 W) is ensured. The subordinate management server 200 transmits a control command to the facility group 100P where the selected specific power storage device is installed. The control command includes an acceptance restriction flag together with information indicating the individual discharge power, the discharge time zone, and the operation mode. On the other hand, the subordinate management server 200 does not transmit a control command to the facility group 100Q where the specific power storage device is not installed.

[0114] In the example shown in FIG. 9, when assuming a case where a discharge of 700 W is allocated to one facility 100, since 100 facilities 100 are included in the facility group 100P, the total discharge power (e.g., 70,000 W) is ensured.

[0115] In Operation Example 4, the case where the subordinate management server 200 does not transmit a control command to the entire facility group 100Q where the specific power storage device 120 is not installed is illustrated. However, Operation Example 4 is not limited to this. The subordinate management server 200 may transmit a control command to a part of the facility group 100Q. However, the control command transmitted to a part of the facility group 100Q may not include an acceptance restriction flag.

[0116] According to Operation Example 4, the subordinate management server 200 sets remote control for one or more power storage devices 120 based on the control plan required for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power grid 12. With such a configuration, according to the situation of the power storage device 120 controlled by the subordinate management server 200, it is possible to appropriately ensure the adjustment power of the remote control.

[0117] According to Operation Example 4, the lower-level management server 200 may set remote control for a specific power storage device without setting remote control for at least some of the power storage devices 120 other than the specific power storage device. According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately secure the adjusted power of remote control without excessively increasing the power storage devices 120 that limit local control.

[0118] (Operation Example 5) In Operation Example 5, the lower-level management server 200 sets remote control for one or more power storage devices 120 based on a control plan required for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power system 12. The control plan may be formulated by the upper-level management server 300. The control plan may be considered as the total adjusted power included in the control command received from the upper-level management server 300. That is, the lower-level management server 200 allocates the individual adjusted power and the adjustment time zone to the power storage devices 120 so that the total adjusted power is secured, and transmits a control command including the allocated individual adjusted power and adjustment time zone. Although not particularly limited, the determination conditions used for selecting the specific power storage device for which the reception restriction flag is transmitted may be the same as those in Operation Example 1.

[0119] Here, the lower-level management server 200 sets different controls as remote controls for one or more power storage devices 120 with respect to the specific power storage device. The lower-level management server 200 may set a remote control different from the remote control set for the power storage devices 120 other than the specific power storage device with respect to the specific power storage device. The different controls may include controls with different adjusted powers of the power storage devices 120, or may include controls with different adjustment time zones of the power storage devices 120.

[0120] For example, taking the case where VPP control involves discharging of the power storage device 120 as an example, it will be described with reference to FIG. 10. In FIG. 10, the facility group 100 where the power storage device 120 for which the first control command is transmitted is installed is represented by the facility group 100X, and the facility group 100 where the power storage device 120 for which the second control command is transmitted is installed is represented by the facility group 100Y.

[0121] First, the upper management server 300 transmits a control command to the lower management server 200 based on the control plan. The control command includes information indicating the total discharge power amount, the discharge time zone, and the like.

[0122] Second, the lower management server 200 sets remote control for one or more power storage devices 120 based on the control plan. For example, the lower management server 200 allocates the individual adjustment power and the adjustment time zone to the power storage device 120 so that the total discharge power amount (for example, 70 kWh) is ensured.

[0123] Third, the lower management server 200 transmits a first control command to the facility group 100X. The control command includes information indicating the individual discharge power, the discharge time zone, and the operation mode. The first control command includes a reception restriction flag.

[0124] Fourth, the lower management server 200 transmits a second control command to the facility group 100Y. The control command includes information indicating the individual discharge power, the discharge time zone, and the operation mode. The second control command may not include a reception restriction flag.

[0125] Here, the individual discharge power (for example, 1000 W) included in the first control command may be different from the individual discharge power (for example, 400 W) included in the second control command. The discharge time zone (for example, 17:00 to 17:30) included in the first control command may be different from the individual discharge power (for example, 17:30 to 18:00) included in the second control command.

[0126] In Operation Example 5, a case where the second control command does not include a reception restriction flag is illustrated. However, Operation Example 5 is not limited to this. The second control command may include a reception restriction flag.

[0127] According to Operation Example 5, the subordinate management server 200 sets remote control for one or more power storage devices 120 based on a control plan required for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power system 12. With such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately secure the adjustment power of the remote control according to the situation of the power storage device 120 controlled by the subordinate management server 200.

[0128] According to Operation Example 5, the subordinate management server 200 sets different controls as remote controls for one or more power storage devices 120 with respect to a specific power storage device. With such a configuration, it is possible to allocate appropriate individual discharge power or discharge time zones for each power storage device 120.

[0129] (Actions and Effects) In the embodiment, when remote control is set by the subordinate management server 200, a specific power storage device included in one or more power storage devices 120 controlled by the subordinate management server 200 restricts the reception of local control. With such a configuration, since the reception of local control that inhibits remote control is restricted, it is possible to secure the adjustment power of the remote control and appropriately execute VPP control.

[0130] In the embodiment, when the administrator of the upper management server 300 attempts to provide services related to VPP control, not only in the model (so-called third-party ownership model) that uses the power storage device 120 owned by the administrator, but also in the model that uses the power storage device 120 owned by the user of the facility 100, it is possible to secure the adjustment power of the remote control, so services related to VPP control can be provided. In other words, in addition to the case of using a newly installed power storage device 120 in the facility 100, it is possible to assume the case of using the power storage device 120 already installed in the facility 100. In the services related to VPP control, the administrator may borrow the adjustment power of the remote control from the user of the facility 100 and pay the user of the facility 100 a consideration for the adjustment power of the remote control. The services related to VPP control may be provided by the administrator of the subordinate management server 200.

[0131] [Modification Example 1] In the following, Modification Example 1 of the embodiment will be described. In the following, the differences from the embodiment will be mainly described. In Modification Example 1, a case of a distributed power source used for VPP control will be exemplified.

[0132] Specifically, when the integrated value of the adjustment power during a predetermined period for remote control reaches a threshold value, the specific power storage device releases the reception restriction of local control. The predetermined period may be one year, one month, one day, or a unit time zone (for example, two hours). The threshold value may be determined according to the ratio between remote control and local control and the life of the distributed power source. The ratio between remote control and local control may be determined by the contract between the facility 100 and the subordinate management server 200, or may be determined by the user of the facility 100. For example, when the integrated value of the adjustment power reaches the threshold value during the predetermined period for the specific power storage device, local control can be received during the remaining period of the predetermined period. Then, in the next predetermined period, the integrated value of the adjustment power in the previous predetermined period may be reset, and the reception restriction of local control may be performed. Here, the following options can be considered as the release of the reception restriction of local control.

[0133] In Option 1, the threshold value is instructed from the subordinate management server 200, and the measurement of the integrated value of the adjustment power is executed by the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120. In Option 1, when the integrated value of the adjustment power reaches the threshold value, the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 autonomously releases the reception restriction of local control.

[0134] In Option 2, the threshold value is registered in the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 in advance, and the measurement of the integrated value of the adjustment power is executed by the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120. In Option 2, when the integrated value of the adjustment power reaches the threshold value, the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 autonomously releases the reception restriction of local control.

[0135] In Option 3, the result of the regulated power is reported from the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 to the subordinate management server 200, and the integrated value of the regulated power is managed by the subordinate management server 200. In Option 3, when the integrated value of the regulated power reaches a threshold value, the subordinate management server 200 transmits information instructing the release of the reception restriction of the local control to the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120. The EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 releases the reception restriction of the local control in response to the information instructing the release of the reception restriction of the local control.

[0136] In Option 4, the result of the regulated power is reported from the EMS 160 or the power storage device 120 to the subordinate management server 200, and the integrated value of the regulated power is managed by the subordinate management server 200. In Option 4, the subordinate management server 200 excludes the target of the power storage device that sends the reception restriction of the local control, so as not to send the reception restriction of the local control.

[0137] For example, a case where the service life of the power storage device 120 is 10 years, the life cycle of the power storage device 120 is 7,000, and the effective capacity of the power storage device 120 is 10 kWh will be described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 11, the power that can be discharged in one year by remote control and local control is 70,000 kWh (= 7,000 cycles × 10 kWh). When the ratio of remote control to local control is 50:50, the power that can be discharged in one year by remote control (i.e., the threshold value) is 35,000 kWh. Note that the power that can be discharged in one year by local control is 35,000 kWh.

[0139] Here, when the predetermined period is one month, the power that can be discharged in one month by remote control (threshold value) may be expressed as 35,000 kWh / 12 months. When the predetermined period is one day, the power that can be discharged in one day by remote control (threshold value) may be expressed as 35,000 kWh / 365 days.

[0140] Furthermore, the power that can be discharged in one year under remote control and local control may be updated according to the degradation state of the power storage device 120. For example, when the number of cycles in one year is less than 7,000 cycles, assuming that the degradation of the power storage device 120 has not advanced relatively, the power that can be discharged in one year under remote control and local control may be increased. On the other hand, when the number of cycles in one year is more than 7,000 cycles, assuming that the degradation of the power storage device 120 has advanced relatively, the power that can be discharged in one year under remote control and local control may be decreased. The degradation state of the power storage device 120 may be specified based on the confirmation result of the SOH (State Of Health) of the power storage device 120.

[0141] As the power that can be discharged in one year under remote control and local control increases or decreases, the power (threshold value) that can be discharged under remote control in a predetermined period also increases or decreases according to the ratio between remote control and local control.

[0142] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, in the case where the predetermined period is one day, when the integrated value of the discharge power under remote control reaches the threshold value at the timing of 13:00, the reception of local control is restricted until 13:00, and the reception restriction of local control may be released after 13:00. Note that in FIG. 12, a case where the local control for which reception restriction is assumed is a change of the operation mode is assumed, and a change to a discharge power that does not fall below the discharge power instructed by remote control may be allowed.

[0143] [Modification Example 2] Hereinafter, Modification Example 2 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, the differences from Modification Example 1 will be mainly described. In Modification Example 2, a case where it is a distributed power source used for VPP control will be exemplified.

[0144] In Modification Example 1, the power that can be discharged by remote control was mainly described. In Modification Example 2, both the power that can be discharged by remote control and the power that can be discharged by local control are considered. Specifically, the following procedure may be executed in Modification Example 2. The following procedure may be executed by the subordinate management server 200, may be executed by the EMS 160, or may be executed by the power storage device 120.

[0145] (1) Set the number of life cycle reaches of the power storage device 120. The number of life cycle reaches is corrected according to the confirmation result of the SOH of the power storage device 120.

[0146] (2) Calculate the total discharge power amount over the life of the power storage device 120 based on the number of life cycle reaches and the effective capacity of the power storage device 120.

[0147] (3) Select an operation mode to be applied to the power storage device 120 from the following three operation modes.

[0148] The first operation mode may be a mode in which the power obtained by subtracting the total discharge power amount A corresponding to the life period required by the user (consumer) of the facility 100 from the total discharge power amount over the life is specified as the total discharge power amount B, the total discharge power amount A is allocated to local control, and the total discharge power amount B is allocated to remote control. The first operation mode may be referred to as the consumer priority mode.

[0149] The second operation mode may be a mode in which the power obtained by subtracting the total discharge power amount B required by the administrator (operator) of the upper management server 300 from the total discharge power amount over the life is specified as the total discharge power amount A, the total discharge power amount A is allocated to local control, and the total discharge power amount B is allocated to remote control. The second operation mode may be referred to as the operator priority mode.

[0150] The third operation mode may be a mode in which the total discharge power amount A assignable to the users (customers) of the facility 100 and the total discharge power amount B assignable to the administrator (operator) of the upper management server 300 are distributed so as to be the total lifetime discharge power amount, the total discharge power amount A is assigned to local control, and the total discharge power amount B is assigned to remote control.

[0151] Under such a premise, the lower management server 200 may execute the operations shown below.

[0152] Specifically, the lower management server 200 may identify the power that can be discharged by local control (first threshold value) in a predetermined period based on the total discharge power amount A, and may identify the power that can be discharged by remote control (second threshold value) in a predetermined period based on the total discharge power amount B.

[0153] The lower management server 200 may manage the discharge history of the power storage device 120 related to local control, the discharge history of the power storage device 120 related to remote control, and the deterioration state of the power storage device 120.

[0154] When the integrated value of the discharge power of local control reaches the first threshold value in a predetermined period, or when it is predicted that the integrated value of the discharge power of local control will reach the first threshold value in a predetermined period, the lower management server 200 may notify the user of the power storage device 120 to that effect.

[0155] When the integrated value of the discharge power of remote control reaches the second threshold value in a predetermined period, or when it is predicted that the integrated value of the discharge power of remote control will reach the second threshold value in a predetermined period, the lower management server 200 may notify the user of the power storage device 120 to that effect.

[0156] [Modification Example 3] Hereinafter, Modification Example 3 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, the differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0157] In Modification Example 3, variations of the conditions for releasing the reception restriction of local control will be described. As variations, the following options can be considered.

[0158] In Option 1, the subordinate management server 200 may release the reception restriction of local control for a specific distributed power source existing in the area where a disaster or a power outage has occurred. The disaster may be an earthquake, a typhoon, a flood, or the like. Specifically, the subordinate management server 200 may receive disaster information and identify the area where the disaster has occurred based on the disaster information. The subordinate management server 200 may transmit information instructing the release of the reception restriction of local control to the specific distributed power source existing in the area where the disaster has occurred.

[0159] In Option 2, a specific distributed power source existing in the area where a disaster or a power outage has occurred may autonomously release the reception restriction of local control. The disaster may be an earthquake, a typhoon, a flood, or the like. Specifically, the specific distributed power source may receive disaster information and identify whether it exists in the area where the disaster has occurred based on the disaster information.

[0160] In Option 3, the subordinate management server 200 may receive information requesting the release of the reception restriction of local control from the facility 100 and determine whether to permit the release of the reception restriction of local control. The subordinate management server 200 may transmit the determination result to the facility 100. The release of the reception restriction of local control may be executed according to the instruction of the subordinate management server 200, or may be autonomously executed at the facility 100.

[0161] In Option 4, the specific distributed power source may release the reception restriction of local control when the adjustment of the regulated power instructed by remote control is completed. When releasing the reception restriction of local control, the specific distributed power source may return to the set state before the application of remote control. Alternatively, the subordinate management server 200 may accept a reservation of the set state to be applied when releasing the reception restriction of local control before releasing the reception restriction of local control.

[0162] In Option 5, when a communication interruption between the subordinate management server 200 and the facility 100 occurs for a certain period, the reception restriction of local control may be released. The communication interruption time may be measured by a timer. When releasing the reception restriction of local control, the specific distributed power source may return to the set state before remote control is applied. Alternatively, before releasing the reception restriction of local control, the subordinate management server 200 may accept a reservation of the set state to be applied when releasing the reception restriction of local control.

[0163] In Option 6, when the number of charge / discharge cycles of the energy storage device 120 reaches a threshold value within a predetermined period, the reception restriction of local control may be released. When releasing the reception restriction of local control, the specific distributed power source may return to the set state before remote control is applied. Alternatively, before releasing the reception restriction of local control, the subordinate management server 200 may accept a reservation of the set state to be applied when releasing the reception restriction of local control.

[0164] [Other Embodiments] Although the present invention has been described by the above-described embodiments, the discussions and drawings forming a part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting this invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operation techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0165] In the above-described disclosure, the reception restriction of local control is executed by the EMS 160 or the energy storage device 120 according to an instruction (reception restriction flag) from the subordinate management server 200. However, the above-described disclosure is not limited thereto. The reception restriction of local control may be autonomously executed by the EMS 160 or the energy storage device 120 without depending on an instruction (reception restriction flag) from the subordinate management server 200. Specifically, based on the determination conditions described in the above-described Operation Example 1, when remote control is set by the subordinate management server 200, the EMS 160 or the energy storage device 120 may autonomously restrict the reception of local control. The fact of performing such an operation may be registered in advance in the EMS 160 or the energy storage device 120.

[0166] In the above disclosure, the communication between the subordinate management server 200 and the power storage device 120 may be executed via the EMS 160. From the perspective of communication with the subordinate management server 200, the power storage device 120 may be read as the EMS 160, or may be read as the facility 100.

[0167] In the above disclosure, the remote control of the power storage device 120 may be executed via the EMS 160. From the perspective of remote control, the power storage device 120 may be read as the EMS 160, or may be read as the facility 100.

[0168] In the above disclosure, the case where the distributed power source used for VPP control is the power storage device 120 has been exemplified. However, the above disclosure is not limited thereto. The distributed power source used for VPP control may be the solar cell device 110, the fuel cell device 130, etc. The distributed power source used for VPP control may be a wind power generation device, a geothermal power generation device, etc. In such a case, the discharge power of the power storage device 120 may be read as the generated power or output power of the distributed power source.

[0169] In the above disclosure, the discharge of the power storage device 120 has been mainly described. However, the above disclosure is not limited thereto. The above disclosure can also be applied to the charging of the power storage device 120.

[0170] In the above disclosure, the distributed power source used for VPP control may be read as a distributed power source system including the power storage device 120 and the EMS 160.

[0171] Although not particularly mentioned in the above disclosure, it may be considered that the subject of remote control of the distributed power source based on the control plan is the upper management server 300. It may be considered that the subordinate management server 200 undertakes a part of the remote control of the distributed power source under the control of the upper management server 300.

[0172] Although not particularly mentioned in the above disclosure, the lower-level management server 200 and the upper-level management server 300 may be implemented by one server, and the lower-level management server 200 and the upper-level management server 300 may be managed by one operator.

[0173] In the above disclosure, the term "generated power" is mainly used, but the generated power may be read as reverse power flow.

[0174] In the above disclosure, the term "procured power" is mainly used, but the procured power may be read as forward power flow. The procured power is a term used for the forward power flow of the facility group 100, and it may be considered that the demand power is a term used for the forward power flow of each of the facilities 100.

[0175] Although not particularly mentioned in the above disclosure, the power may be represented by an instantaneous value (W / kW) or may be represented by an integrated value per unit time (Wh / kWh).

[0176] Although not particularly mentioned in the above disclosure, a program for causing a computer to execute each process performed by the EMS 160 and the lower-level management server 200 may be provided. Further, the program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. By using a computer-readable medium, it is possible to install the program on a computer. Here, the computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be a non-transitory recording medium. The non-transitory recording medium is not particularly limited, and for example, it may be a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM.

[0177] Alternatively, a chip may be provided that includes a memory for storing a program for executing each process performed by the EMS 160 and the lower-level management server 200 and a processor for executing the program stored in the memory.

[0178] [Supplementary Note] The above disclosure may be expressed as follows.

[0179] The first feature is a power management system comprising one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power system, and a power management device that executes remote control of the one or more distributed power sources. When remote control is set by the power management device for a specific distributed power source included in the one or more distributed power sources, reception of local control in the facility is restricted.

[0180] The second feature is that, in the first feature, the power management device is a power management system that transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed.

[0181] The third feature is that, in the second feature, the power management device is a power management system that selects the specific distributed power source based on determination conditions regarding the one or more distributed power sources.

[0182] The fourth feature is that, in any one of the first to third features, when specified by a higher-level device, the power management device is a power management system that transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed.

[0183] The fifth feature is that, in any one of the second to fourth features, when a distributed power source in which the remote control is changed to the local control satisfies specific conditions, the power management device is a power management system that transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed, and the specific distributed power source is selected from among the distributed power sources in which the remote control has not been changed to the local control.

[0184] The sixth feature is that, in any one of the second to fifth features, the power management device is a power management system that sets the remote control for the one or more distributed power sources based on a control plan required for adjustment of the power supply-demand balance of the power system.

[0185] The seventh feature is that, in the sixth feature, the power management device is a power management system that sets the remote control for a specific distributed power source without setting the remote control for at least some of the distributed power sources other than the specific distributed power source.

[0186] The eighth feature is that, in the sixth feature, the power management device is a power management system that sets different controls as the remote control for the one or more distributed power sources.

[0187] The ninth feature is that, in any one of the first to eighth features, the specific distributed power source is a power management system that releases the reception restriction of the local control when the integrated value of the adjustment power in a predetermined period reaches a threshold value for the remote control.

[0188] The tenth feature is a power management method including: step A in which a power management device executes remote control of one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power grid; and step B in which a specific distributed power source included in the one or more distributed power sources restricts reception of local control in the facility when remote control is set by the power management device.

Explanation of Signs

[0189] 1…Power management system, 11…Network, 12…Power grid, 100…Facility, 110…Solar cell device, 120…Energy storage device, 130…Fuel cell device, 140…Load equipment, 160…EMS, 161…First communication unit, 162…Second communication unit, 163…Control unit, 190…Measurement device, 200…Lower-level management server, 210…Communication unit, 220…Management unit, 230…Control unit, 300…Upper-level management server, 310…Communication unit, 320…Management unit, 330…Control unit, 400…Third-party server

Claims

1. One or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power system, A power management device that executes remote control of the one or more distributed power sources, and A power management system, wherein when remote control is set for a specific distributed power source included in the one or more distributed power sources by the power management device, reception of local control in the facility is restricted.

2. The power management system according to claim 1, wherein the power management device transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed.

3. The power management system according to claim 2, wherein the power management device selects the specific distributed power source based on determination conditions regarding the one or more distributed power sources.

4. The power management system according to claim 1, wherein when designated by a higher-level device, the power management device transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed.

5. When a distributed power source in which the remote control is changed to the local control satisfies a specific condition, the power management device transmits information instructing the reception restriction of the local control to the specific distributed power source or the facility in which the specific distributed power source is installed, The power management system according to claim 2, wherein the specific distributed power source is selected from among distributed power sources in which the remote control has not been changed to the local control.

6. The power management system according to claim 2, wherein the power management device sets the remote control for the one or more distributed power sources based on a control plan required for adjusting the power supply-demand balance of the power system.

7. The power management system according to claim 6, wherein the power management device sets the remote control for the specific distributed power source without setting the remote control for at least some of the distributed power sources other than the specific distributed power source.

8. The power management system according to claim 6, wherein the power management device sets different controls as the remote control for the one or more distributed power sources.

9. The power management system according to claim 1, wherein the specific distributed power source releases the reception restriction of the local control when an integrated value of adjustment power in a predetermined period reaches a threshold value for the remote control.

10. Step A in which a power management device executes remote control of one or more distributed power sources installed in one or more facilities connected to a power system, A power management method comprising: step B of restricting reception of local control in the facility when a specific distributed power source included in the distributed power sources of 1 or more is remotely controlled by the power management device.

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