Power generating unit operation system

Abstract

To appropriately supply power.SOLUTION: A power generator operation system includes a power generator and a server 100 communicable with the power generator, wherein the server 100 includes an information transmission part 168 for receiving a reaction command from an issuer issuing a reaction command that is a power output command on the basis of a time required for reaction required until the power generator can output predetermined power according to the reaction command from the issuer, and transmitting a reaction preparation command of instructing the power generator to perform advance preparation to the power generator, before the reaction command issued to the power generator by the server 100, to the power generator.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation unit operation system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, fuel cell units have been installed at consumer sites to generate electricity using city gas, LP gas, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses determining an operation plan for a fuel cell unit based on the consumer's past power consumption and heat demand. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-158019 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Recently, a system known as a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) has been put into practical use, in which multiple distributed energy resources within a region are remotely controlled using Internet of Things (IoT) devices, making them function as if they were a single power plant. A VPP can, for example, aggregate the electricity generated by fuel cell units installed at each consumer's home and supply it to the main power grid.

[0005] In addition, VPPs are also providing energy services by integrating and controlling multiple distributed energy resources. A company that provides such services is called an aggregator. For example, an aggregator receives a response command from an electric utility company and supplies a specified amount of electricity by the time actual demand begins.

[0006] However, fuel cell units installed at consumer facilities take time to start up and increase their output, and it can be difficult to supply the required amount of power between the time the electric utility receives a response command and the time actual supply and demand begins.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a power generation unit operation system that can appropriately supply electric power. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the power generation unit operation system of the present invention includes a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, and the server includes an information transmission unit that transmits to the power generation unit a response preparation command that instructs the power generation unit to make advance preparations before the response command that the server issues to the power generation unit upon receiving the response command from the issuer, based on a response required time required for the power generation unit to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the issuer, which is a power output command. The response preparation command includes information on at least one of whether the power generation device is started, whether the operation plan of the power generation device is updated, and whether the reference value is derived, when the type of power trading market in which power trading is conducted is a type in which the consumer is required to submit a reference value indicating the power demand value estimated at a predetermined time, and when the power generation device derives the reference value. . In order to solve the above problem, the power generation unit operation system of the present invention includes a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, and the server includes an information transmission unit that transmits to the power generation unit a response preparation command that instructs the power generation unit to make advance preparations before the response command that the server issues to the power generation unit upon receiving the response command from the issuer, based on a response required time required for the power generation unit to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the issuer, which is a power output command. The information transmission unit transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device when the response time required for the power generation device is longer than the response command time from the time of transmission of the response command, which is determined for each power trading market where power trading is conducted, to the actual supply and demand start time, which is the time when the supply of power traded in the power trading market starts. . In order to solve the above problem, the power generation unit operation system of the present invention includes a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, and the server includes an information transmission unit that transmits to the power generation unit a response preparation command that instructs the power generation unit to make advance preparations before the response command that the server issues to the power generation unit upon receiving the response command from the issuer, based on a response required time required for the power generation unit to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the issuer, which is a power output command. The information transmission unit transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device when the required response time is shorter than the reference value request time from the actual supply and demand start time, which is the time when the supply of electricity traded in the electricity trading market where electricity trading is conducted, to the time when the consumer is required to submit a reference value indicating the electricity demand value estimated at a predetermined time according to the type of electricity trading market. . In order to solve the above problem, the power generation unit operation system of the present invention includes a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, and the server includes an information transmission unit that transmits to the power generation unit a response preparation command that instructs the power generation unit to make advance preparations before the response command that the server issues to the power generation unit upon receiving the response command from the issuer, based on a response required time required for the power generation unit to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the issuer, which is a power output command. The information transmission unit transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device during a period from the time of contract processing when contract processing is performed in an energy trading market where energy trading takes place to a predetermined time before the start of actual supply and demand, which is the start of supply of energy traded in the energy trading market. When the type of energy trading market is one in which submission of a reference value indicating an estimated energy demand value of a consumer at a predetermined time is required and the power generation device derives the reference value, the predetermined time is either a time before the start of actual supply and demand and the required response time, or a time before the reference value required time from the start of actual supply and demand to the time in which submission of the reference value is required according to the type of energy trading market plus the adjustment time required to adjust the output of the power generation device and the communication time required for communication between the power generation device and the server, whichever is earlier. .

[0011] The response ready command may include a response ready identifier provided to distinguish it from the identifier of the response command. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, power can be supplied appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a power generation plant operation system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functions of the server according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram for explaining the function of the power generating device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a first example of an operation plan for the power generation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a second example of an operation plan for the power generation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for operating a power generation unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Dimensions, materials, and other specific values ​​shown in the embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the invention and, unless otherwise specified, do not limit the present invention. In this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation, and elements not directly related to the present invention are not shown.

[0019] [1. Overall configuration of the power generation unit operation system] First, the overall configuration of a power generation unit operation system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a power generation unit operation system 1000 according to this embodiment.

[0020] 1, a power generation unit operation system 1000 according to this embodiment includes a server 100 and a plurality of power generation units 200. The plurality of power generation units 200 are provided in respective consumer facilities 300. The server 100 and the plurality of power generation units 200 are connected to each other via a network NW so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0021] The server 100 is configured with various computer devices, such as a server computer, a personal computer, a workstation, a large computer, a microcomputer, etc. The server 100 collects, stores, and processes various information transmitted from a plurality of power generation devices 200.

[0022] The power generation device 200 is a general term for devices that generate electricity, such as a solar power generation or fuel cell unit installed in the consumer 300, a storage battery, an electric vehicle, a private power generation facility, and negawatts (saving electricity). In this embodiment, the power generation device 200 is, for example, a fuel cell unit.

[0023] In this embodiment, the fuel cell unit is a home fuel cell cogeneration system, known as ENE-FARM (registered trademark). The fuel cell unit of this embodiment includes a fuel cell, a heat exchanger, and a hot water storage tank (not shown). The fuel cell generates electricity and heat by reacting hydrogen in reformed gas, which is obtained by reforming fuel such as city gas or LP gas, with oxygen in the air. The heat exchanger uses the heat generated by the fuel cell to heat water, turning it into hot water. The hot water heated by the heat exchanger is stored in the hot water storage tank. The electricity generated by the fuel cell and the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank are used by the consumer 300. The electricity generated by the fuel cell can also be supplied to the main power grid.

[0024] The network NW is a wireless or wired communication network for connecting the server 100 and the multiple power generation devices 200 so that they can communicate with each other. The network NW is configured from various networks, such as a low power wide area (LPWA), a satellite communication network, a mobile phone network, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and other dedicated line networks. At least a part of the network NW includes a wireless network. However, at least a part of the network NW may also include a wired network. In this way, the network NW may include both a wireless network and a wired network.

[0025] In this embodiment, the server 100 remotely controls a plurality of power generation devices 200 via a network NW, causing them to function as part of a VPP. An aggregator that manages the server 100 performs integrated control of a plurality of power generation devices 200 and provides energy services.

[0026] The aggregator is a general term for an aggregation coordinator (AC) and a resource aggregator (RA). For example, the aggregator trades electricity with an electric utility company in an electricity trading market where electricity is traded.

[0027] Electricity trading markets include capacity markets, spot markets, hourly advance markets (wholesale electricity markets), and balancing markets. Capacity markets trade the supply capacity of electricity that will be needed nationwide in the future, for example, four years into the future through an auction. Spot markets are markets where power generators and retailers buy and sell the electricity they will generate or sell the next day up until the day before the actual supply and demand date. Hourly advance markets are markets where electricity can be traded up to one hour before the start of actual supply and demand, in order to address mismatches in supply and demand due to sudden increases in electricity demand or power generation failures. Markets where power generators and retailers trade, such as spot and hourly advance markets, are collectively called wholesale electricity markets. Balancing markets are markets where balancing capacity is traded to ensure a stable supply of electricity by matching the simultaneous demand and supply of electricity at the actual supply and demand level.

[0028] The server 100 managed by the aggregator receives a response command from a commander (hereinafter simply referred to as a commander) that issues a response command, which is a power output command defined for each power trading market, and transmits the response command to the plurality of power generation devices 200 to generate a predetermined amount of power. However, the commander does not have to be defined for each power trading market, and may, for example, issue a power output command without going through the power trading market.

[0029] Here, the issuer differs depending on the type of electricity trading market. For example, if the type of electricity trading market is a capacity market, the issuer is the Organization for Cross-regional Coordination of Transmission Operators of Japan. Furthermore, if the type of electricity trading market is a wholesale electricity market such as an advance market, the issuer is a power generation company, a retail electricity supplier, another aggregator, etc. Furthermore, if the type of electricity trading market is a supply and demand adjustment market, the issuer is a general electricity transmission and distribution company. Note that, hereinafter, general electricity transmission and distribution companies, retail electricity suppliers, power generation companies, etc. are collectively referred to as electricity suppliers.

[0030] In this embodiment, the response refers to the power generation device 200 operating to generate a predetermined amount of power upon receiving a command from the command issuer or the server 100. In other words, the response command is a command issued by the command issuer or the server 100 to make the power generation device 200 generate a predetermined amount of power. There are two types of response commands: a first response command issued by the command issuer to the server 100, and a second response command issued by the server 100 to the power generation device 200. Hereinafter, the first response command and the second response command will be collectively referred to as response commands. In this embodiment, the first response command and the second response command are the same. However, the first response command and the second response command may be different. The details of the response commands will be described later.

[0031] The aggregator aggregates the power generated by multiple power generation devices 200 and trades with the electric utility. Once a trade is concluded with the electric utility, the aggregator is obligated to ensure that the contracted amount of power can be supplied at the start of actual supply and demand. Upon receiving a response command from the electric utility, the aggregator performs integrated control of the multiple power generation devices 200 so that the specified amount of power can be supplied by the start of actual supply and demand.

[0032] The electric utility pays the aggregator a price according to the winning bid price in the electricity trading market. The aggregator pays the consumer a price according to the amount of power supplied. As an example, the following describes a case where adjustment capacity is traded in the supply and demand adjustment market, and the aggregator's server 100 performs integrated control of multiple power generation devices 200 to supply a predetermined amount of power at the start of actual supply and demand.

[0033] [2. Functional configuration of server 100] 2 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functions of the server 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the server 100 according to this embodiment includes a server communication unit 110, a server storage unit 130, and a server control unit 150.

[0034] The server communication unit 110 establishes communication with the power generation communication unit 210 (see FIG. 3) installed in the plurality of power generation devices 200 via the network NW. The server storage unit 130 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, a flash memory, a HDD, etc., and stores programs and various data used by the server 100. The server storage unit 130 accumulates various information collected from the plurality of power generation devices 200.

[0035] The server control unit 150 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls the entire server 100 using a program stored in the server storage unit 130. The server control unit 150 also functions as an information receiving unit 152, a startup time derivation unit 154, a processing time derivation unit 156, a reference value derivation unit 158, an adjustment time derivation unit 160, a communication time derivation unit 162, a response required time derivation unit 164, a response preparation command determination unit 166, and an information transmitting unit 168. The operations of these functional units will be described in detail later.

[0036] 3. Functional Configuration of Power Generation Device 200 3 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functions of the power generation device 200 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the power generation device 200 according to this embodiment includes a power generation communication unit 210, a power generation storage unit 230, and a power generation control unit 250.

[0037] The power generation communication unit 210 establishes communication with the server communication unit 110 (see FIG. 2) installed in the server 100 via the network NW. The power generation storage unit 230 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, a flash memory, an HDD, etc., and stores programs and various data used in the power generation device 200.

[0038] The power generation storage unit 230 stores resource information related to the power generation device 200 installed in the consumer 300. The resource information includes the type of the power generation device 200 (fuel cell in this embodiment), the installation location (address of the consumer 300), the rated power and rated capacity of the power generation device 200.

[0039] The power generation control unit 250 is configured with a CPU, and controls the entire power generation device 200 using a program stored in the power generation storage unit 230. The power generation control unit 250 also functions as an information receiving unit 252, an operation plan determining unit 254, and an information transmitting unit 256. The operations of these functional units will be described in detail later.

[0040] There are multiple types of products traded in the electricity trading market. For example, the product categories traded in the supply and demand market can be broadly divided into five categories: primary control reserve, secondary control reserve 1, secondary control reserve 2, tertiary control reserve 1, and tertiary control reserve 2.

[0041] Primary control reserve is the adjustment reserve for maintaining the system frequency of the bulk power system at a constant level. For example, this primary control reserve is adjusted by the power generation device 200 automatically detecting changes in the system frequency and performing local control (adjusting the frequency using a power conditioner, etc.) to automatically control output so that the system frequency remains constant. The response time of primary control reserve is set to within 10 seconds. For secondary control reserves 1 and 2, the response command time (response time) in response to a response command from the issuer is set to within 5 minutes, and power must be supplied within 5 minutes of the issuer's response command. Here, the response command time is the time from the time the response command is sent to the time actual supply and demand begins, which is set for each electricity trading market. For secondary control reserves 1 and 2, the response command time is set to a maximum of 5 minutes.

[0042] Tertiary control capacity 1 specifies that the response command time for a response command from the caller must be within 15 minutes, and that power must be supplied within 15 minutes of the caller's response command. With this tertiary control capacity 1, the response command time is set to a maximum of 15 minutes. With tertiary control capacity 2, the response command time for a response command from the caller must be within 45 minutes, and that power must be supplied within 45 minutes of the caller's response command. With this tertiary control capacity 2, the response command time is set to a maximum of 45 minutes.

[0043] In this way, the response command time in response to the command from the command issuer differs depending on the type of commodity traded in the supply and demand balancing market. Furthermore, this response command time also differs depending on the type of electricity trading market. Here, when the power generation device 200 is configured with a fuel cell unit as in this embodiment, it takes time to start up and increase the output, so it may be difficult to supply the specified amount of power within the response command time in response to the command from the command issuer.

[0044] Therefore, in this embodiment, the server 100 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 to instruct advance preparation before the server 100 issues a response command to the power generation device 200 upon receiving the response command from the command issuer, based on the required response time required for the power generation device 200 to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the command issuer. Specifically, as an example, if the required response time of the power generation device 200 is longer than the response command time determined for each energy trading market, the server 100 transmits the response preparation command to the power generation device 200 in advance. Upon receiving the response preparation command from the server 100, the power generation device 200 performs at least one of the following advance preparations: startup before the start of actual supply and demand, updating of the operation plan, and calculation of a reference value. Here, the reference value is a demand value (or demand, if none exists) that would be expected if a consumer energy resource (DSR) that does not have a power generation plan value did not provide adjustment power. Specifically, this reference value is estimated as the amount of power that the consumer 300 would purchase from the power grid at a predetermined time (for example, this time tomorrow) if the power generation device 200 had not received any instructions. The power generation device 200 of this embodiment calculates, as the reference value, an estimated value of power that the consumer 300 would purchase from the power grid at the predetermined time if no instructions had been received. Below, an example of the operation of the server 100 and the power generation device 200 will be described, taking as an example a case where the adjustment capacity of the tertiary adjustment capacity 2 is traded in the supply and demand adjustment market.

[0045] The information receiving unit 152 of the server 100 receives various types of information from the power generation device 200. The various types of information include, for example, resource information, information related to the startup of the power generation device 200, information related to the operation plan of the power generation device 200, information related to a reference value indicating an estimated power demand value of the consumer 300 at a predetermined time, information related to output adjustment of the power generation device 200, and information related to communication of the power generation device 200.

[0046] The startup time derivation unit 154 of the server 100 derives the startup time required to start up the power generation apparatus 200 based on information related to the startup of the power generation apparatus 200. For example, the startup time derivation unit 154 measures the startup time of the power generation apparatus 200 in advance and stores the time in the server storage unit 130 as data related to the startup time of the power generation apparatus 200. Specifically, the startup time derivation unit 154 measures the startup time from the start of startup of the power generation apparatus 200 to the completion of startup. The startup time derivation unit 154 also stores the measured startup time of the power generation apparatus 200 in the server storage unit 130. Thereafter, when deriving the startup time of the power generation apparatus 200, the startup time derivation unit 154 refers to the data related to the startup time stored in the server storage unit 130 and derives the startup time of the power generation apparatus 200 based on the data.

[0047] The start-up time derivation unit 154 may derive an average value of the start-up times stored in the server storage unit 130, and use the average value of the start-up times as the start-up time required to start up the power generation device 200. The start-up time derivation unit 154 may also derive a start-up time that is set in advance according to the type of the power generation device 200 as the start-up time required to start up the power generation device 200. The start-up time derivation unit 154 may also derive a start-up time of the power generation device 200 that is set by an administrator who manages the server 100 as the start-up time required to start up the power generation device 200.

[0048] The processing time derivation unit 156 of the server 100 derives a processing time for updating the operation plan of the power generation plant 200 based on information related to the operation plan of the power generation plant 200. For example, the processing time derivation unit 156 measures the processing time required to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200 in advance and stores the time in the server storage unit 130 as data related to the processing time of the power generation plant 200. Specifically, the processing time derivation unit 156 measures the processing time from the start of updating the operation plan of the power generation plant 200 to the completion of the update. Here, if an operation plan has not yet been created in the power generation plant 200, the processing time may be measured as the sum of the time from the start of generation of the operation plan of the power generation plant 200 to the completion of generation and the time from the start of update to the completion of update. The processing time derivation unit 156 also stores the measured processing time in the server storage unit 130. Thereafter, when deriving the processing time of the power generation device 200, the processing time derivation unit 156 refers to the data relating to the processing time stored in the server storage unit 130, and derives the processing time of the power generation device 200 based on the data.

[0049] The processing time derivation unit 156 may derive an average value of the processing times stored in the server storage unit 130, and use the average value of the processing times as the processing time required to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200. The processing time derivation unit 156 may also derive a processing time set in advance according to the type of the power generation plant 200 as the processing time required to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200. The processing time derivation unit 156 may also derive a processing time set by an administrator who manages the server 100 as the processing time required to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200.

[0050] The reference value derivation unit 158 ​​of the server 100 derives a reference value derivation time for deriving a reference value for the power generation device 200, based on information about a reference value indicating an estimated power demand value for the consumer 300 at a predetermined time. In this embodiment, the reference value derivation unit 158 ​​derives the reference value derivation time when the type of the power trading market in which the aggregator transacts with the electric utility is one in which submission of the reference value is mandatory, and when the power generation device 200 derives a reference value. Here, the type of power trading market in which submission of a reference value is mandatory is a supply and demand balancing market. For example, the reference value derivation unit 158 ​​measures the reference value derivation time for the power generation device 200 in advance and stores the time in the server storage unit 130 as data related to the reference value derivation time for the power generation device 200. Specifically, the reference value derivation unit 158 ​​measures the derivation time from the start time of derivation of the reference value for the power generation device 200 to the completion time of derivation. Furthermore, the reference value derivation unit 158 ​​stores the measured reference value derivation time in the server storage unit 130. Thereafter, when deriving the reference value derivation time of the power generation device 200, the reference value derivation unit 158 ​​refers to the data related to the reference value derivation time stored in the server storage unit 130, and derives the reference value derivation time of the power generation device 200 based on the data.

[0051] The reference value derivation unit 158 ​​may derive an average value of the reference value derivation times stored in the server storage unit 130, and use the average value of the reference value derivation times as the derivation time required to derive the reference value of the power generation device 200. The reference value derivation unit 158 ​​may also derive a reference value derivation time set in advance according to the type of the power generation device 200 as the reference value derivation time required to derive the reference value of the power generation device 200. The reference value derivation unit 158 ​​may also use a reference value derivation time set by an administrator who manages the server 100 as the reference value derivation time required to derive the reference value of the power generation device 200.

[0052] The adjustment time derivation unit 160 of the server 100 derives the adjustment time required for the output adjustment of the power generation device 200 based on information related to the output adjustment of the power generation device 200. For example, the adjustment time derivation unit 160 measures the adjustment time of the power generation device 200 in advance and stores the time in the server storage unit 130 as data related to the adjustment time of the power generation device 200. Specifically, the adjustment time derivation unit 160 measures the adjustment time from the start of the output adjustment of the power generation device 200 to the completion of the output adjustment. The adjustment time derivation unit 160 also stores the measured adjustment time in the server storage unit 130. Thereafter, when deriving the adjustment time of the power generation device 200, the adjustment time derivation unit 160 refers to the data related to the adjustment time stored in the server storage unit 130 and derives the adjustment time of the power generation device 200 based on the data.

[0053] The adjustment time derivation unit 160 may derive an average value of the adjustment times stored in the server storage unit 130, and use the average value of the adjustment times as the adjustment time required for adjusting the output of the power generation device 200. The adjustment time derivation unit 160 may derive an adjustment time set in advance according to the type of the power generation device 200 as the adjustment time required for adjusting the output of the power generation device 200. The adjustment time derivation unit 160 may derive an adjustment time set by an administrator who manages the server 100 as the adjustment time required for adjusting the output of the power generation device 200.

[0054] The communication time derivation unit 162 of the server 100 derives the communication time required for communication to transmit necessary information with the power generation device 200 based on information related to the communication of the power generation device 200. For example, the communication time derivation unit 162 measures the communication time of the power generation device 200 in advance and stores it in the server storage unit 130 as data related to the communication time of the power generation device 200. Specifically, the communication time derivation unit 162 measures the communication time from the start of communication between the server 100 and the power generation device 200 to the completion of communication.

[0055] As an example, the communication time derivation unit 162 measures the transmission time of transmitting information from the power generation device 200 to the server 100 as the communication time between the server 100 and the power generation device 200. However, without being limited to this, the communication time derivation unit 162 may measure the total time of the transmission time of transmitting information from the server 100 to the power generation device 200 and the transmission time of transmitting information from the power generation device 200 to the server 100 as the communication time between the server 100 and the power generation device 200.

[0056] Furthermore, the communication time derivation unit 162 stores the measured communication time in the server storage unit 130. Thereafter, when deriving the communication time of the power generation device 200, the communication time derivation unit 162 refers to data related to the communication time stored in the server storage unit 130 and derives the communication time of the power generation device 200 based on the data. Note that the communication time derivation unit 162 may derive an average value of the communication time stored in the server storage unit 130 and use the average value of the communication time as the communication time required for communication between the server 100 and the power generation device 200.

[0057] Furthermore, the communication time derivation unit 162 may derive a communication time set in advance according to the type of the power generation device 200 as the communication time required for communication between the server 100 and the power generation device 200. Furthermore, the communication time derivation unit 162 may derive a communication time set by an administrator who manages the server 100 as the communication time required for communication between the server 100 and the power generation device 200.

[0058] The required response time derivation unit 164 of the server 100 derives the required response time of the power generation device 200 based on at least one of the startup time, processing time, reference value derivation time, adjustment time, and communication time of the power generation device 200. In this embodiment, the required response time is the sum of the startup time, processing time, reference value derivation time, adjustment time, and communication time of the power generation device 200.

[0059] The response preparation command determination unit 166 of the server 100 determines the content of the response preparation command based on the required response time derived by the required response time derivation unit 164. Here, the response preparation command includes a response preparation identifier, information on the start time of actual supply and demand, and information on the amount of power generation supply. Here, the commands transmitted from the server 100 to the power generation device 200 include a response command (second response command, main command) and a response preparation command. In order to distinguish between the response command and the response preparation command, different identifiers are assigned to the response command and the response preparation command, respectively. The response preparation identifier is an identifier assigned to the response preparation command in order to distinguish it from the response command. The response preparation identifier is transmitted before the response command and is set to prepare the power generation device 200 in advance.

[0060] The response preparation command also includes information regarding at least one of whether the power generation device 200 is started, whether the operation plan is updated, and whether a reference value is derived. The information regarding whether a reference value is derived is included in the response preparation command when the type of energy trading market requires the power generation device 200 to submit a reference value and the power generation device 200 derives a reference value. The information regarding whether the power generation device 200 is started includes, for example, a command to start or not start the power generation device 200 at the start of actual supply and demand and before the response command. The information regarding whether the operation plan is updated includes, for example, a command to update or not update the operation plan of the power generation device 200 at the start of actual supply and demand and before the response command. The information regarding whether a reference value is derived includes, for example, a command to cause the power generation device 200 to derive a reference value at the start of actual supply and demand and before the response command.

[0061] The response preparation command determination unit 166 compares the required response time with the response command time, and determines the content of the response preparation command based on the comparison result.

[0062] The response preparation command determination unit 166 determines the content of the response preparation command so that, for example, when the required response time is longer than the response command time, the power generation device 200 is started before the response command, the operation plan is updated, and a reference value is derived.

[0063] Furthermore, in a balancing market, there is an obligation to submit a reference value to the balancing market or the issuer at least one hour before the start of actual supply and demand. That is, depending on the type of electricity trading market, there are cases where submission of a reference value for the power generation device 200 is required before the start of actual supply and demand. Here, the reference value request time is defined as the time from the start of actual supply and demand to the earliest point at which submission of a reference value is required depending on the type of electricity trading market (hereinafter referred to as the reference value request earliest point). In this embodiment, the reference value request time is, for example, one hour.

[0064] The response preparation command determination unit 166 compares the required response time with the reference value request time and determines the content of the response preparation command based on the comparison result. For example, when the required response time is shorter than the reference value request time, the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines the content of the response preparation command so that the power generation device 200 derives the reference value before the shortest reference value request time.

[0065] The information transmission unit 168 of the server 100 transmits the response command or the response preparation command determined by the response preparation command determination unit 166 to the power generation device 200. The timing for transmitting the response preparation command is between the time of contract processing when contract processing is performed in the electricity trading market and a predetermined time before the start of actual supply and demand. For example, in the case of tertiary adjustment capacity 2 in the supply and demand adjustment market, the contract processing time is 3:00 PM on the day before the start of actual supply and demand.

[0066] The specified point in time is either the point in time before the response time required from the start of actual supply and demand, or the point in time before the reference value request time plus the adjustment time and communication time of the power generation device 200 from the start of actual supply and demand, whichever is earlier.

[0067] The information receiving unit 252 of the power generation device 200 receives various information from the server 100. The various information includes a response command and a response preparation command.

[0068] The operation plan determination unit 254 of the power generation device 200 determines an operation plan for the power generation device 200. The operation plan determination unit 254 determines the operation plan based on data relating to past power consumption and heat demand at the consumer 300 stored in the power generation storage unit 230. For example, the operation plan determination unit 254 extracts data relating to the power consumption and heat demand of the consumer 300 acquired in the past for multiple days, and derives an operation plan based on the average values ​​of the extracted data on power consumption and heat demand for multiple days. The operation plan includes the power generation start time, power generation stop time, hourly power generation amount, etc.

[0069] Furthermore, based on the response preparation command, the operation plan determination unit 254 updates the operation plan of the power generation plant 200. For example, when the response preparation command includes a command to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200, the operation plan determination unit 254 executes an update process to update the operation plan of the power generation plant 200.

[0070] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a first example of an operation plan for the power generation device 200 according to this embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating a second example of an operation plan for the power generation device 200 according to this embodiment. In Figs. 4 and 5, the vertical axis represents the power generation output of the power generation device 200, the horizontal axis represents time, the dashed line represents the operation plan before updating, and the solid line represents the operation plan after updating. In Figs. 4 and 5, the hatched areas represent the actual supply and demand time period from the actual supply and demand start point, which is the point at which the supply of electricity traded in the electricity trading market starts, to the actual supply and demand end point, which is the point at which the supply of electricity ends.

[0071] As shown by the dashed line in Fig. 4, in the operation plan before the update, the power generation device 200 is stopped at the start of the actual supply and demand time period. In this case, the operation plan determination unit 254 updates the operation plan so that the power generation device 200 can generate a predetermined amount of power at the start of the actual supply and demand time period. In the updated operation plan, as shown by the solid line in Fig. 4, the power generation device 200 is started up before the actual supply and demand time period so that the predetermined amount of power can be generated at the start of the actual supply and demand time period.

[0072] As shown by the dashed line in Fig. 5, in the operation plan before the update, the power generation device 200 is stopped before or during the actual supply and demand time slot. In this case, the operation plan determination unit 254 updates the operation plan so that the power generation device 200 can generate a predetermined amount of power at the start of the actual supply and demand time slot. In the updated operation plan, as shown by the solid line in Fig. 5, the start time of the power generation device 200 is delayed compared to the operation plan before the update, so that the power generation device 200 is not stopped during the actual supply and demand time slot.

[0073] The information transmission unit 256 of the power generation device 200 transmits various types of information to the server 100. The various types of information include, for example, resource information, information related to the startup of the power generation device 200, information related to the operation plan of the power generation device 200, information related to a reference value indicating an estimated power demand value of the consumer 300 at a predetermined time, information related to output adjustment of the power generation device 200, and information related to communication of the power generation device 200.

[0074] Next, a method for operating the power generation unit according to this embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

[0075] 6, the response preparation command determination unit 166 of the server 100 sets whether or not to pre-activate the power generation device 200 (S100). As an example, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-activate the power generation device 200 depending on the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator transacts with the electricity utility. For example, if the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator transacts with the electricity utility is a supply and demand adjustment market, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-activate the power generation device 200 when the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator transacts with the electricity utility is a supply and demand adjustment market, a spot market, or a capacity market, and sets whether or not to pre-activate the power generation device 200 when the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator transacts with the electricity utility is a time-ahead market.

[0076] Furthermore, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to update the operation plan of the power generation device 200 (S110). As an example, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to update the operation plan of the power generation device 200 depending on the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility. For example, if the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility is a supply and demand balancing market or a spot market, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to update the operation plan of the power generation device 200, and if the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility is a capacity market or an hour-ahead market, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to update the operation plan.

[0077] Furthermore, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-derive the reference value of the power generation device 200 (S120). As an example, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-derive the reference value of the power generation device 200 depending on the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility. For example, if the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility is a supply and demand balancing market and the power generation device 200 derives a reference value, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-derive the reference value. Furthermore, if the type of electricity trading market in which the aggregator trades with the electricity utility is a capacity market or a wholesale electricity market, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets whether or not to pre-derive the reference value. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the response preparation command determination unit 166 may set whether or not to pre-activate the power generation device 200, whether or not to update the operation plan, and whether or not to pre-derive the reference value, based on an instruction from the aggregator, regardless of the type of electricity trading market. For example, in order to reduce capacity contributions, electricity retailers may make adjustments to reduce grid demand during times when peak demand is expected, and in such cases, there may be no transactions or commands via the electricity trading market. In this case, for example, if it is predicted on the previous day that a peak demand will occur around 3:00 PM the next day, the response preparation command determination unit 166 sets only "operation plan updated" to the previous day, etc.

[0078] The adjustment time derivation unit 160 of the server 100 derives the adjustment time required for adjusting the output of the power generation device 200 (S130). Furthermore, the communication time derivation unit 162 of the server 100 derives the communication time required for communication to transmit necessary information to the power generation device 200 (S140). The method of deriving this adjustment time and communication time is as described above.

[0079] The required response time deriving unit 164 of the server 100 derives the required response time of the power generation plant 200 based on the set information of S100 to S120 and information about the adjustment time and communication time of S130 to S140 (S150). Specifically, the required response time deriving unit 164 derives the required response time of the power generation plant 200 based on the information set in S100 to S120 regarding whether or not the power generation plant 200 has been pre-activated, whether or not the operation plan has been updated, and whether or not the reference value has been pre-derived. For example, if pre-activation of the power generation plant 200 is set to be pre-activated in S100, the required response time deriving unit 164 derives the required response time to include the above-mentioned activation time. Similarly, if updating of the operation plan of the power generation plant 200 is set to be pre-updated in S110, the required response time deriving unit 164 derives the required response time to include the above-mentioned processing time. Similarly, when the reference value of the power generation device 200 is set to be pre-derived in S120, the required response time deriving unit 164 derives the required response time so as to include the above-mentioned reference value derivation time.

[0080] In this way, the required response time derivation unit 164 derives the required response time of the power generation device 200 based on at least one of the startup time, processing time, reference value derivation time, adjustment time, and communication time of the power generation device 200. In this embodiment, the required response time is the sum of the startup time, processing time, reference value derivation time, adjustment time, and communication time of the power generation device 200.

[0081] The response preparation command determination unit 166 compares the required response time with the response command time and determines whether the required response time is longer than the response command time (S160). If the required response time is longer than the response command time (YES in S160), the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines a response preparation command including information set in S100 to S120 regarding whether or not to pre-activate the power generation plant 200, whether or not to update the operation plan, and whether or not to pre-derive the reference value. For example, the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines the content of the response preparation command so that the power generation plant 200 is started, the operation plan is updated, and the reference value is derived before the response command. When the presence or absence of advance activation of the power generation device 200, the presence or absence of updating of the operation plan, or the presence or absence of advance derivation of the reference value is set by an instruction from the aggregator, the response preparation command determination unit 166 skips the processes of steps S150 and S160 and determines a response preparation command including information regarding the set presence or absence of advance activation of the power generation device 200, the presence or absence of updating of the operation plan, and the presence or absence of advance derivation of the reference value. Then, the information transmission unit 168 of the server 100 transmits the response preparation command determined by the response preparation command determination unit 166 to the power generation device 200 (S170).

[0082] The operation plan determination unit 254 of the power generation plant 200 executes various processes including a pre-start process for the power generation plant 200, a process for updating the operation plan, and a process for pre-deriving the reference value, based on the response preparation command from the server 100. Thereafter, the information receiving unit 252 of the power generation plant 200 receives the response command from the server 100.

[0083] On the other hand, if the required response time is shorter than the response command time in step S160 (NO in S160), the response preparation command determination unit 166 compares the required response time with the reference value request time and determines whether the required response time is shorter than the reference value request time (S180). If the required response time is shorter than the reference value request time (YES in S180), the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines a response preparation command including information regarding the presence or absence of pre-derivation of a reference value so as to cause the power generation plant 200 to pre-derive a reference value before the shortest reference value request time. The response preparation command determination unit 166 also determines a response preparation command including information regarding the presence or absence of pre-start of the power generation plant 200 and the presence or absence of updating of the operation plan, which were set in S100 to S110. Then, the information transmission unit 168 of the server 100 transmits the response preparation command determined by the response preparation command determination unit 166 to the power generation plant 200 (S190).

[0084] The operation plan determination unit 254 of the power generation plant 200 executes various processes including at least the pre-derivation process of the reference value among the pre-startup process of the power generation plant 200, the update process of the operation plan, and the pre-derivation process of the reference value, based on the response preparation command from the server 100. Thereafter, the information receiving unit 252 of the power generation plant 200 receives the response command from the server 100.

[0085] On the other hand, in step S180, if the required response time is longer than the reference value requested time (NO in S180), the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines not to perform advance activation of the power generation plant 200, update of the operation plan, or advance derivation of the reference value before the response command. That is, at this time, the response preparation command determination unit 166 determines not to transmit a response preparation command to the power generation plant 200. Therefore, the information transmission unit 168 of the server 100 does not transmit the response preparation command to the power generation plant 200 (S200), and the information reception unit 252 of the power generation plant 200 receives the response command from the server 100 at the timing of the response command from the issuer.

[0086] As described above, the server 100 of this embodiment includes an information transmitting unit 168 that transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 before the issuer issues a response command, based on the required response time of the power generation device 200. This makes it easy for the power generation device 200 to supply a predetermined amount of power between the time it receives the response command and the time the actual supply and demand begins, even if the power generation device 200 is a fuel cell unit that takes time to start up and increase its output.

[0087] In this embodiment, the response preparation command includes information regarding whether or not to start the power generation device 200 and whether or not to update the operation plan. Note that, if the type of energy trading market requires submission of a reference value and the power generation device 200 derives the reference value, the response preparation command further includes information regarding whether or not to derive the reference value. This makes it possible to have the power generation device 200 execute the startup process of the power generation device 200, the update process of the operation plan, and the deriving process of the reference value before the response command is issued.

[0088] The response preparation command also includes a response preparation identifier that is provided to distinguish it from the identifier of a response command from the issuer or the server 100. This makes it possible to prevent the startup process of the power generation plant 200, the update process of the operation plan, and the derivation process of the reference value from being executed unnecessarily before the response command.

[0089] Furthermore, if the required response time of the power generation device 200 is longer than the response command time determined for each energy trading market, the information transmitting unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200. As a result, if the power generation device 200 is caused to execute startup processing and output increase processing after the response command, it is possible to transmit a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 that will not be able to secure the predetermined amount of power in time for the start of actual supply and demand.

[0090] Furthermore, when the required response time is shorter than the reference value required time for which submission of the reference value of the power generation device 200 is required depending on the type of energy trading market, the information transmitting unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200. This makes it possible to execute only the reference value derivation process without unnecessarily executing the startup process of the power generation device 200 and the update process of the operation plan before the response command, particularly when submission of the reference value is required in a supply and demand balancing market.

[0091] Furthermore, the information transmission unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 between the time of contract processing when contract processing is performed in the energy trading market and a predetermined time before the start of actual supply and demand. Here, the predetermined time is a time from the start of actual supply and demand before the required response time. Note that if the type of energy trading market requires submission of a reference value and the power generation device 200 derives the reference value, the predetermined time is either a time from the start of actual supply and demand before the required response time, or a time from the start of actual supply and demand before the time obtained by adding the adjustment time and communication time of the power generation device 200 to the reference value request time. This makes it possible to reliably secure the specified amount of power from the power generation device 200 by the start of actual supply and demand.

[0092] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. It is clear that those skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications and alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that such modifications and alterations also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0093] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the response preparation command includes information regarding whether or not to start the power generation device 200, whether or not to update the operation plan, and whether or not to derive the reference value. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the response preparation command does not necessarily have to include information regarding whether or not to start the power generation device 200, whether or not to update the operation plan, and whether or not to derive the reference value.

[0094] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the response preparation command includes a response preparation identifier, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the response preparation command does not necessarily include a response preparation identifier.

[0095] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the information transmission unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to a power generation device when the required response time of the power generation device is longer than the response command time specified for each energy trading market. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the information transmission unit 168 does not have to transmit a response preparation command to a power generation device when the required response time of the power generation device is longer than the response command time specified for each energy trading market.

[0096] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the information transmitting unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device when the required response time is shorter than the reference value required time. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the information transmitting unit 168 does not have to transmit a response preparation command to the power generation device when the required response time is shorter than the reference value required time.

[0097] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the information transmission unit 168 transmits a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 between the time from the start of actual supply and demand to the time before the required response time, or between the time from the start of actual supply and demand to the time obtained by adding the adjustment time and communication time of the power generation device 200 to the reference value request time, whichever is earlier. However, without being limited to this, the information transmission unit 168 may transmit a response preparation command to the power generation device 200 between the time from the start of actual supply and demand to the time before the required response time, or between the time from the start of actual supply and demand to the time obtained by adding the adjustment time and communication time of the power generation device 200 to the reference value request time. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 servers 110 Server Communication Department 130 Server storage unit 150 Server control unit 152 Information Receiving Unit 154 Start-up time derivation part 156 Processing time derivation part 158 Reference Value Derivation Unit 160 Adjustment time derivation part 162 Communication time calculation part 164 Required response time derivation part 166 Response Preparation Command Decision Unit 168 Information Transmission Unit 200 Power Generation Equipment 210 Power Generation and Communications Department 230 Power Generation Memory Unit 250 Power generation control unit 252 Information Receiving Unit 254 Operation Planning Department 256 Information Transmission Unit 300 Consumer 1000 Power generating unit operation system

Claims

1. A power generation unit operation system including a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, the server includes an information transmitting unit that transmits to the power generation device a response preparation command that instructs the power generation device to make advance preparations before a response command that the server issues to the power generation device upon receiving the response command from a user who issues a response command that is a command to output power, based on a required response time required for the power generation device to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the user, The response preparation command includes, when the type of the electricity trading market in which electricity is traded is a type in which the consumer is required to submit a reference value indicating an estimated electricity demand value at a predetermined time, and the power generation device derives the reference value, information on at least one of whether the power generation device is started, whether an operation plan of the power generation device is updated, and whether the reference value is derived. Generator unit operation system.

2. A power generation unit operation system including a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, the server includes an information transmitting unit that transmits to the power generation device a response preparation command that instructs the power generation device to make advance preparations before a response command that the server issues to the power generation device upon receiving the response command from a user who issues a response command that is a command to output power, based on a required response time required for the power generation device to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the user, The information transmission unit transmits the response preparation command to the power generation device when the required response time of the power generation device is longer than a response command time from the time of transmission of the response command, which is determined for each power trading market where power trading is conducted, to the actual supply and demand start time, which is the time when the supply of power traded in the power trading market starts; Generator unit operation system.

3. A power generation unit operation system including a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, the server includes an information transmitting unit that transmits to the power generation device a response preparation command that instructs the power generation device to make advance preparations before a response command that the server issues to the power generation device upon receiving the response command from a user who issues a response command that is a command to output power, based on a required response time required for the power generation device to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the user, The information transmission unit transmits the response preparation command to the power generation device when the required response time is shorter than a reference value required time from an actual supply and demand start time, which is the time when the supply of electricity traded in an electricity trading market where electricity is traded, to a time when the consumer is required to submit a reference value indicating an estimated electricity demand value at a predetermined time according to the type of the electricity trading market; Generator unit operation system.

4. A power generation unit operation system including a power generation unit and a server capable of communicating with the power generation unit, the server includes an information transmitting unit that transmits to the power generation device a response preparation command that instructs the power generation device to make advance preparations before a response command that the server issues to the power generation device upon receiving the response command from a user who issues a response command that is a command to output power, based on a required response time required for the power generation device to be able to output a predetermined amount of power in response to the response command from the user, The information transmission unit transmitting the response preparation command to the power generation device during a period from a time when a contract processing is performed in an electricity trading market where electricity is traded to a predetermined time before a time when actual supply and demand starts, which is a time when supply of electricity traded in the electricity trading market starts; the predetermined time point is, when the type of the electricity trading market is one in which the consumer is required to submit a reference value indicating an estimated electricity demand value at a predetermined time, and the power generation device derives the reference value, either a time point from the start of the actual supply and demand until the required response time, or a time point before the reference value request time from the start of the actual supply and demand until the submission of the reference value is required due to the type of the electricity trading market, plus an adjustment time required for adjusting the output of the power generation device and a communication time required for communication between the power generation device and the server, whichever is earlier. Generator unit operation system.

5. The response ready command includes a response ready identifier provided to distinguish it from the identifier of the response command. The power generation unit operation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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