Carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system, carbon dioxide emission target achievement support method, and program

Abstract

To provide a system, or the like, for supporting achievement of CO2 emission target that can hold down the cost related to achievement of CO2 emission upper limit.SOLUTION: A support system 10 includes: an acquisition unit 11 which acquires a CO2 emission upper limit amount for a target period set by a business operator 20 and an actual energy usage by the business operator 20 until a first time point in the target period; a CO2 calculation unit 12 which calculates a CO2 actual emission amount until the first time point in the target period, based on the actual energy usage; an estimation unit 13 which calculates a first CO2 estimated emission amount for the target period, on the basis of the CO2 actual emission amount; a determination unit 14 which determines whether or not the first CO2 estimated emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission upper limit amount; and a selection unit 16 which selects, when the determination unit 14 determines exceedance, procurement means recommended from among multiple pieces of procurement means, based on the cost of each of the multiple pieces of procurement means related to the achievement of the CO2 emission upper limit amount for resolving the exceedance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system and a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support method. [Background Art]

[0002] As part of environmental load reduction activities, various initiatives have been implemented aimed at reducing emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is considered a cause of global warming. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that supports reduction of CO₂ emissions by business operators and the like. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2011-34205 [Summary of the Invention] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Incidentally, in the near future, it is expected that a system will be applied in which countries, local governments, etc. will allocate annual (an example of a target period) CO₂ emission caps (obligations to reduce CO₂ emission caps) to business operators. Under this system, if a business operator's CO₂ emissions exceed the CO₂ emission cap, for example, the business operator will purchase CO₂ emission allowances (carbon credits), and it is desirable to keep the cost related to achieving the CO₂ emission cap low. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose how to keep the cost related to achieving the CO₂ emission cap low.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system and a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support method capable of keeping the cost related to achieving the CO₂ emission cap low. [Means for Solving the Problems]

[0006] A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: an acquisition unit that acquires the CO2 emission limit for a target period set by a business operator and the energy usage record of the business operator up to a first point in time during the target period; a first calculation unit that calculates the actual CO2 emission amount up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record; a second calculation unit that calculates a first estimated CO2 emission amount for the target period based on the actual CO2 emission amount; a determination unit that determines whether the first estimated CO2 emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission limit; and, if the determination unit determines that it exceeds the limit, a selection unit that selects a recommended procurement means from among a plurality of procurement means based on the cost of each of the plurality of procurement means related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit.

[0007] A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support method according to one aspect of the present invention involves obtaining the CO2 emission limit for a target period set by the business operator, and the business operator's energy usage record up to a first point in time during the target period; calculating the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record; calculating a first estimated CO2 emission for the target period based on the actual CO2 emission; determining whether the first estimated CO2 emission exceeds the CO2 emission limit; and if it is determined to exceed the limit, selecting a recommended procurement method from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system that can keep the costs associated with achieving the upper limit of CO2 emissions low. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of an energy adjustment system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2]Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between CO2 emissions and the buying and selling of CO2 emission allowances. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the electricity purchase menu. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart that shows step S60 in detail, as shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart that shows step S120 in detail, as shown in Figure 5. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, those not described in an independent claim are described as optional components.

[0012] Furthermore, each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Therefore, for example, the scale may not necessarily match in each figure. Also, in each figure, substantially identical components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0013] Furthermore, in this specification, terms indicating relationships between elements such as agreement, as well as numerical values ​​and numerical ranges, are not expressions that represent only strict meanings, but also expressions that include substantially equivalent ranges, for example, differences of a few percent (for example, about 10%).

[0014] Also, in the present specification, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" do not mean the number or order of the constituent elements unless otherwise specified, and are used for the purpose of avoiding confusion between and distinguishing constituent elements of the same type.

[0015] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the support system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7.

[0016] [1. Configuration of Support System] First, the configuration of the support system according to the present embodiment and the energy adjustment system including the support system will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the energy adjustment system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the energy adjustment system 1 includes a support system 10, an operator 20 (for example, an information processing apparatus owned by the operator 20), an electric power company 30 (for example, an information processing apparatus owned by the electric power company 30), and an emission allowance trading market 40 (for example, an information processing apparatus used in the emission allowance trading market 40). The support system 10, the operator 20, the electric power company 30, and the emission allowance trading market 40 are communicably connected via a wide-area communication network 50 such as the Internet.

[0018] When there is a difference (for example, a difference equal to or larger than a predetermined value) between the upper limit of CO2 emission for a target period set by the operator 20 and the estimated CO2 emission estimated to be emitted by the operator 20 during the target period, the support system 10 has a function of selecting a difference elimination means having a price (cost or profit) advantage from among a plurality of difference elimination means (for example, a plurality of procurement means described later or a plurality of consumption means) for achieving the upper limit of CO2 emission to eliminate the situation where the difference occurs. Achieving the upper limit of CO2 emission corresponds to achieving the CO2 emission target.

[0019] The support system 10 executes processing for selecting a procurement means that can keep low the cost related to achieving a CO2 emission upper limit to resolve the excess situation, for example, when the business operator 20 is expected to emit CO2 in excess of the CO2 emission upper limit set for the business operator 20. As countermeasures when the business operator 20 is expected to emit CO2 in excess of the CO2 emission upper limit, examples include purchasing a CO2 emission allowance corresponding to the expected excess CO2 emission amount (the excess portion) from the emission allowance trading market 40, and switching the electric power used by the business operator 20 to electric power generated without emitting CO2 (switching the purchased power menu). When the business operator 20 is expected to emit CO2 in excess of the CO2 emission upper limit, the support system 10 selects a countermeasure that results in lower cost for the business operator 20.

[0020] The CO2 emission upper limit is, for example, the upper limit value of CO2 emissions for a target period. A CO2 emission allowance is, for example, a carbon credit that is traded when CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission upper limit or when CO2 emissions are below the CO2 emission upper limit.

[0021] The business operator 20 is a corporation, organization, individual business operator or the like that conducts business, and is an entity for which a CO2 emission upper limit is set for a target period (for example, one year). FIG. 1 shows an example in which "10000t-CO2" is set for the business operator 20 as the annual CO2 emission upper limit (annual emission upper limit in FIG. 1).

[0022] The business operator 20 has, for example, a plurality of factories (for example, Factory A and Factory B in FIG. 1) that operate under the management of the business operator 20, a plurality of sales offices, and the like. The CO2 emission upper limit set for the business operator 20 is the upper limit value of CO2 emissions for the entire business operator 20 including the plurality of factories, the plurality of sales offices, and the like. Hereinafter, an example in which the business operator 20 has a plurality of factories (Factory A and Factory B) will be described. Note that a factory is an example of an aggregation unit.

[0023] The CO2 emission limit is allocated by public institutions such as the national and local governments, but it may also be set voluntarily by businesses, for example. Furthermore, the following explanation uses an example where the target period is one year, but due to changes in the system, the period may be other than one year.

[0024] At each of the multiple factories, various information such as the amount of energy used (water, electricity, gas, etc.), the production plan set for that factory, and the actual production results at that factory are entered into a terminal device such as a PC (Personal Computer). This various information is then transmitted to the support system 10, for example, via a wide-area communication network 50.

[0025] The power company 30 has a contract with the factory regarding the supply of electricity and supplies the factory with electricity according to the electricity contract menu. Examples of electricity contract menus include a menu for purchasing electricity derived from fossil fuels such as oil and coal (an example of CO2-free electricity) (Purchased electricity menu B shown in Figure 4 below) and a menu for purchasing electricity derived from renewable energy such as solar power and wind power (an example of CO2-free electricity) (Purchased electricity menu A shown in Figure 4 below).

[0026] CO2-free electricity is electricity generated using a power generation method that produces CO2 during its creation (for example, a power generation method with a CO2 emission factor greater than 0 t-CO2 / kWh), and as mentioned above, electricity derived from fossil fuels is an example. CO2-free electricity is electricity generated using a power generation method that does not produce CO2 during its creation (for example, a power generation method with a CO2 emission factor of 0 t-CO2 / kWh), and as mentioned above, electricity derived from renewable energy is an example.

[0027] Furthermore, it is expected that each of the multiple factories will have contracts with different power companies, for example, and that the terms of these contracts will differ from one another.

[0028] The emissions allowance trading market 40 is a market where businesses that exceed the set CO2 emission limit and businesses that do not exceed the CO2 emission limit can buy and sell (trade) CO2 emission allowances (also called CO2 emission rights). The buying and selling price in the emissions allowance trading market 40 can be determined in two ways: by over-the-counter transactions with carbon credit holders or by auction transactions. For example, the buying and selling price is expected to change constantly due to the supply and demand balance determined by the market mechanism. In the near future, when a system is applied in which the national government, local governments, etc., assign obligations to businesses 20 to reduce their CO2 emission limit for a target period, the buying and selling price is expected to rise as demand exceeds supply as the end of the fiscal year approaches. Therefore, when businesses 20 purchase CO2 emission allowances in the emissions allowance trading market 40, it is desirable to purchase them early from a cost perspective. The buying and selling price is, for example, the unit price (price per unit amount of CO2) in the buying and selling of CO2 emission allowances. The emissions allowance trading market 40 is also an example of a CO2 emission allowance trading market.

[0029] Here, the configuration of the support system 10 will be further explained with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the support system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the support system 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a CO2 calculation unit 12, an estimation unit 13, a determination unit 14, a price calculation unit 15, a selection unit 16, and a notification unit 17.

[0031] The acquisition unit 11 acquires the CO2 emission limit, energy usage record, production plan, and production record via the wide-area communication network 50. The energy usage record includes actual values ​​of energy usage such as water, electricity, and gas. In this embodiment, the energy usage record includes at least the actual value of electricity usage. The production plan is a plan for the production of the target product at the factory. The production plan may be generated on a weekly, monthly, or other basis. The production record includes the actual number of target products produced (actual production quantity). The target product is an article produced at the factory.

[0032] The acquisition unit 11 acquires, for example, the CO2 emission limit set for business operator 20 (information indicating the CO2 emission limit) from business operator 20. The acquisition unit 11 also acquires energy usage records, production plans, and production records from each of multiple factories. The acquisition unit 11 acquires energy usage records, production plans, and production records periodically, but the timing of acquisition is not particularly limited. The acquisition unit 11 may also acquire energy usage records from facilities other than factories, such as business operator 20's office buildings.

[0033] The acquisition unit 11 only needs to acquire at least the CO2 emission limit and energy usage data. The acquisition unit 11 is configured to include, for example, a wireless communication circuit (wireless communication module).

[0034] The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the total amount of CO2 emissions (actual CO2 emissions) for the entire business operator 20 based on the energy usage record. The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the present time (an example of the first time point) for the target period (1 year) based on the energy usage record of the business operator 20 up to the present time for the target period (1 year). The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions using a coefficient that shows the relationship between electricity usage and CO2 emissions, for example. The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions of the business operator 20 by adding up the individual actual CO2 emissions, which are the records of each of the multiple factories, for example.

[0035] The CO2 calculation unit 12 may calculate and store the actual CO2 emissions each time the acquisition unit 11 acquires any of the energy usage records, production plans, or production records. In other words, the CO2 calculation unit 12 may monitor the actual CO2 emissions of the business operator 20. The CO2 calculation unit 12 is an example of a first calculation unit.

[0036] Figure 3 illustrates the relationship between CO2 emissions and the buying and selling of CO2 emission allowances. Figure 3 shows the CO2 emissions when the CO2 emission limit (the "target value" shown in Figure 3) is exceeded and when it falls below it, assuming a one-year period starting in April and ending in March. The target value, in the example in Figure 1, is 10,000 t-CO2. The horizontal axis represents time (months), and the vertical axis represents CO2 emissions (total CO2 emissions for all businesses 20). The "Current" in Figure 3 indicates the present time, for example, the time when it was determined that the CO2 emission limit had been exceeded.

[0037] The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions (solid line portion) for the period shown in Figure 3 as the actual CO2 emissions. Note that "up to the present time in the target period" means, for example, from April (start of the target period) to the present time, but it may also mean from April to last month based on the present time. Also, "remaining period in the target period" means, for example, from the present time to March (end of the target period).

[0038] Referring again to Figure 2, the estimation unit 13 calculates (estimates) the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions calculated by the CO2 calculation unit 12. The first estimated CO2 emissions are the CO2 emissions that are estimated to be emitted throughout the entire target period if the current situation continues. The estimation unit 13 calculates (estimates) the CO2 emissions for the forecast period shown in Figure 3 (dashed line portion). The CO2 emissions as of March correspond to the first estimated CO2 emissions.

[0039] The estimation unit 13 calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions based on the number of days elapsed up to the present time, the actual CO2 emissions, and the number of days remaining in the target period. For example, if the present time is one month into a year, the estimation unit 13 may estimate the total estimated CO2 emissions for the remaining 11 months by multiplying the actual CO2 emissions by 11.

[0040] Furthermore, if the production plan and production results are acquired by the acquisition unit 11, the estimation unit 13 may also calculate the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the production plan and production results. The calculation of the first estimated CO2 emissions when using the production plan and production results will be described later. The estimation unit 13 is an example of a second calculation unit.

[0041] The determination unit 14 determines whether the actual CO2 emissions are expected to exceed the CO2 emission limit at the end of the target period. If the actual CO2 emissions do not exceed the CO2 emission limit at the time of determination by the determination unit 14, the determination unit 14 determines whether the CO2 emissions between the present time and the end of the target period, or at the end of the target period (i.e., at a point in the future from the present time), will exceed the CO2 emission limit.

[0042] The determination unit 14 makes the above determination (excess determination) based on whether the first estimated CO2 emission exceeds the CO2 emission limit. If the determination unit 14 determines that there is an excess, it may calculate the excess CO2 emission for the target period (see the upward arrow shown in Figure 3) based on the first estimated CO2 emission and the CO2 emission limit. The excess CO2 emission is used, for example, to calculate the cost when purchasing CO2 emission allowances in the emission allowance trading market 40.

[0043] Furthermore, the determination unit 14 may calculate the excess CO2 emissions as a value obtained by subtracting the CO2 emission limit from the first estimated CO2 emissions. Also, if the determination unit 14 determines that there is no excess, that is, that the first estimated CO2 emissions are below the CO2 emission limit, it may calculate the surplus CO2 emissions for the target period (see the downward arrow shown in Figure 3) based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. The determination unit 14 may also calculate the surplus CO2 emissions as a value obtained by subtracting the first estimated CO2 emissions (for example, CO2 emissions as of March) from the CO2 emission limit. The surplus CO2 emissions are used, for example, to calculate costs when selling CO2 emission allowances in the emission allowance trading market 40.

[0044] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost of procuring excess CO2 emissions through multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit when the first estimated CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission limit. The price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods based on the excess CO2 emissions. The multiple procurement methods include procuring CO2 emission allowances from the emission allowance trading market 40 (first procurement method) and procuring CO2-free electricity by switching from CO2-non-free electricity to CO2-free electricity (second procurement method). In other words, the multiple procurement methods include purchasing CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the excess CO2 emissions and switching to electricity procurement that reduces CO2 emissions so as not to exceed the CO2 emission limit. The price calculation unit 15 is an example of a calculation unit.

[0045] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the costs for each of the first and second procurement methods. The price calculation unit 15 calculates the costs for each of the multiple procurement methods based on excess CO2 emissions. The cost for the first procurement method is the cost (first cost) when excess CO2 emissions are procured from the emissions trading market 40, and the cost for the second procurement method is the cost (second cost) when electricity equivalent to excess CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity. The price calculation unit 15 functions as a third calculation unit (cost calculation unit).

[0046] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the timing and cost (cost by the first procurement method) of purchasing CO2 emission allowances within the remaining period of the target period, based on the history of transaction prices (selling prices) in the emission allowance trading market 40. The price calculation unit 15 may also calculate the timing and cost of purchasing CO2 emission allowances from the history of transaction prices over the past several months or years. The price calculation unit 15 may also obtain the timing and cost of purchasing CO2 emission allowances as output by inputting the history of transaction prices in the emission allowance trading market 40 from the past to the present into a machine learning model that has been trained to take the history of transaction prices in the emission allowance trading market 40 as input and output the timing and cost of purchasing CO2 emission allowances. Furthermore, the input to the machine learning model may also include the current transaction price in the emission allowance trading market 40. The timing of purchase is, for example, the timing when the cost is lowest.

[0047] Furthermore, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the costs incurred when switching electricity contract menus (costs from the second procurement method) so as not to exceed the CO2 emission allowance. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the electricity purchase menus.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, examples of electricity contract menus include Purchase Electricity Menus A and B. Purchase Electricity Menu A is a CO2-free menu with a CO2 emission factor of 0 t-CO2 / kWh and a CO2-free option fee of 5 yen / kWh. The CO2-free option fee is an additional cost incurred when switching from Purchase Electricity Menu B to Purchase Electricity Menu A.

[0049] Purchase electricity plan B is a CO2-free plan with a CO2 emission factor of 0.001 t-CO2 / kWh and a CO2-free option fee of 0 yen / kWh. Generally, CO2-free plans are cheaper than CO2-free plans because there is no additional CO2-free option fee.

[0050] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost of switching to purchase electricity menu A if multiple factories are currently receiving electricity under purchase electricity menu B. However, if multiple factories are already receiving electricity under purchase electricity menu A, the cost of the second procurement method is not calculated.

[0051] Furthermore, the number of electricity contract options is not limited to two; there may be three or more. Also, the CO2-free option fee may differ for each of the multiple factories.

[0052] Furthermore, if the first estimated CO2 emissions fall below the CO2 emission limit, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit when the CO2 surplus emissions are absorbed by multiple absorption means related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to eliminate the CO2 surplus emissions. The multiple absorption means are absorption means that can achieve the CO2 emission limit while eliminating the CO2 surplus emissions, and include a first absorption means to the emission allowance trading market 40 and a second absorption means by switching from CO2-free electricity to CO2-non-free electricity. In other words, the multiple absorption means include selling CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the CO2 surplus emissions and switching to electricity procurement that increases CO2 emissions to an extent that does not exceed the CO2 emission limit.

[0053] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit for each of the first and second digestion methods. The price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit for each of the multiple digestion methods based on the surplus CO2 emissions. The profit from the first digestion method is the profit when CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the surplus CO2 emissions are sold on the emission allowance trading market 40, and the profit from the second digestion method is the profit when electricity equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity. The price calculation unit 15 functions as a fourth calculation unit (profit calculation unit).

[0054] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the timing for selling CO2 emission allowances within the remaining period of the target period and the profit at the time of sale (profit from the first consumption method) based on the history of transaction prices (selling prices) in the emission allowance trading market 40. The price calculation unit 15 may also calculate the timing for selling CO2 emission allowances and the profit from the transaction prices over the past several months or years. The price calculation unit 15 may also obtain the timing for selling CO2 emission allowances and the profit from the transaction prices in the emission allowance trading market 40 from the past as output to a machine learning model that has been trained to take the history of transaction prices in the emission allowance trading market 40 as input and output the timing for selling CO2 emission allowances and the profit from the transaction prices in the emission allowance trading market 40 from the past. The input to the machine learning model may also include the current transaction price in the emission allowance trading market 40. The timing for selling is, for example, the timing at which the highest profit can be obtained.

[0055] Furthermore, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit (profit from the second consumption method) that would be generated when switching electricity contract menus, so as not to exceed the CO2 emission limit.

[0056] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit when multiple factories switch to purchase electricity menu B if they are currently receiving electricity under purchase electricity menu A. However, if multiple factories are already receiving electricity under purchase electricity menu B, the profit from the second consumption method is not calculated.

[0057] If the determination unit 14 determines that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the selection unit 16 selects a recommended procurement method from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit. The selection unit 16 may also compare the costs of each of the multiple procurement methods (e.g., the first cost and the second cost) and select the procurement method with the lower cost as the recommended procurement method. If the determination unit 14 determines that the CO2 emission limit has not been exceeded, the selection unit 16 selects a recommended digestion method from among the multiple digestion methods based on the benefits of each of the multiple digestion methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit. The selection unit 16 may also compare the benefits of each of the multiple digestion methods (e.g., the first benefit and the second benefit) and select the digestion method with the greater benefit as the recommended digestion method.

[0058] The recommended procurement and consumption methods may be carried out by the support system 10. The selection unit 16 may select the procurement and consumption methods to be carried out in the energy adjustment system 1.

[0059] The notification unit 17 notifies the selection result made by the selection unit 16. The notification unit 17 notifies the selection result, for example, the administrator (user) of the business operator 20. The notification unit 17 is configured to include, for example, a wireless communication circuit (wireless communication module). The notification unit 17 may also be configured as an integral part of the acquisition unit 11.

[0060] [2. Operation of the support system] Next, the operations performed by the support system 10 configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the support system 10 according to this embodiment (CO2 emission target achievement support method). Figure 5 describes an example in which the acquisition unit 11 acquires the production plan and production results. Each step shown in Figure 5 is performed within the target period.

[0061] First, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the CO2 emission limit, energy usage record, production plan, and production record (S10). The acquisition unit 11 acquires the energy usage record, production plan, and production record from each of the multiple factories. The production plan is a production plan for the target period (for example, one year). The production plan may include information showing the number of items produced each month, for example. There may be multiple types of items to be produced. The production record is the production record up to the present time in the target period. The production record includes information showing the number of items produced up to the present time in the target period (production record). The production record may include, for example, the production record for each item.

[0062] Next, the CO2 calculation unit 12 and the estimation unit 13 calculate the projected annual CO2 emissions for the business operator 20 (S20). The projected CO2 emissions correspond to the total annual CO2 emissions (actual CO2 emissions) for the entire business operator 20. The CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions for the current time in the target period (for example, up to last month) based solely on actual energy usage. For example, the CO2 calculation unit 12 calculates the actual CO2 emissions for each of the multiple factories, based at least on the actual energy usage of that factory.

[0063] The estimation unit 13 then calculates (estimates) the amount of CO2 emissions to be emitted during the remaining period from the present time onward in the target period, based at least on actual CO2 emissions. The estimation unit 13 may calculate the predicted CO2 emission value from actual CO2 emissions alone, or it may calculate the purchase energy consumption per unit, as shown in Figure 6 later, based on energy usage and production results, and then calculate the predicted CO2 emission value based on the production plan and the calculated purchase energy consumption per unit. For example, the estimation unit 13 may calculate the predicted CO2 emission value based on the production plan for the remaining period (e.g., production volume) and the purchase energy consumption per unit. In this way, the estimation unit 13 may calculate (estimate) the predicted CO2 emission value based on energy usage, production plan, and production results.

[0064] The estimation unit 13 calculates individual CO2 emission forecasts (third CO2 estimated emissions) for each of the multiple factories, and calculates the CO2 emission forecast for business operator 20 based on the individual CO2 emission forecasts for each of the multiple factories. The estimation unit 13 calculates the CO2 emission forecast for business operator 20 (first CO2 estimated emissions) by adding up (summing) the emissions obtained by adding the individual CO2 actual emissions and individual CO2 emission forecasts for each of the multiple factories (second CO2 estimated emissions).

[0065] Next, the determination unit 14 compares the CO2 emission forecast value calculated by the estimation unit 13 with the CO2 emission limit and determines whether the CO2 emission forecast value exceeds the CO2 emission limit (S30). The determination unit 14 determines whether it is predicted that the CO2 emission forecast value will exceed the CO2 emission limit within the target period.

[0066] Next, if the price calculation unit 15 determines that the predicted CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission limit (Yes in S30), it calculates the excess amount and calculates the first cost and second cost shown below.

[0067] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the amount exceeding the CO2 emission limit (CO2 excess emissions) (S40). The price calculation unit 15 predicts the excess amount as the value obtained by subtracting the CO2 emission limit of business operator 20 from the CO2 emission prediction value of business operator 20 calculated in step S20.

[0068] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost (first cost) of purchasing CO2 emission allowances (carbon credits) from the emission allowance trading market 40 (S50). The cost calculated in step S50 corresponds to the cost of the first procurement method described above. The price calculation unit 15 calculates (predicts) the first cost based, for example, on the history of the trading price (sales price) of carbon credits in the emission allowance trading market 40 and the excess amount. The price calculation unit 15 also calculates the cost (second cost) of switching electricity contract menus at multiple factories (S60). The cost calculated in step S60 corresponds to the cost of the second procurement method described above.

[0069] Here, the calculation of the second cost will be explained further with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart (CO2 emission target achievement support method) that shows step S60 shown in Figure 5 in detail.

[0070] As shown in Figure 6, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the purchase energy consumption per unit (kWh / unit) for each factory based on the energy usage and production records up to the present time in the target period (for example, up to last month) (S61). The price calculation unit 15 calculates the purchase energy consumption per unit (kWh / unit) for each factory by dividing the purchase energy consumption per unit (kWh) up to the present time in the target period (for example, up to last month) by the production quantity (units) up to the present time in the target period (for example, up to last month), but the calculation method is not limited to this. The purchase energy consumption per unit is the amount of electricity required to produce one unit of the target item, and is an example of an energy consumption per unit. The purchase energy consumption per unit may be a common value regardless of the types of multiple target items, or it may be a value calculated individually for each type of target item.

[0071] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the planned electricity purchase amount for each factory (S62). The price calculation unit 15 calculates the planned electricity purchase amount (kWh) for each factory from the present time onward (for example, from next week onward) within the target period. The planned electricity purchase amount (kWh) calculated here is the amount of electricity that is expected to be consumed during the remaining period. For example, in the example in Figure 3, it is the amount of electricity that is expected to be consumed from the present time until March. The planned electricity purchase amount is an example of the planned energy purchase amount.

[0072] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the planned electricity purchase amount (kWh) for each factory based on the electricity purchase unit cost (kWh / unit) and the production plan (for example, the number of units to be produced for the remaining period). The number of units to be produced for the remaining period can be obtained based on the production plan.

[0073] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost of switching electricity contract menus for each factory (S63). If each factory is currently receiving electricity under the purchased electricity menu B (a menu with a CO2 emission factor greater than 0) shown in Figure 4, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost of switching from purchased electricity menu B to purchased electricity menu A (a menu with a CO2 emission factor of 0).

[0074] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the switching cost for each factory by multiplying the planned amount of electricity purchased (kWh) for each factory by the additional cost incurred by switching electricity contract menus (for example, the CO2-free option fee (yen / kWh) shown in Figure 4). It can also be said that the price calculation unit 15 calculates the switching cost required for each factory to switch from CO2-free electricity to CO2-free electricity.

[0075] In step S63, if there is a factory already receiving electricity under purchase electricity menu A (a menu with a CO2 emission factor of 0), the cost of switching electricity contract menus is calculated for each of the other factories among the multiple factories, excluding the factory in question. Information indicating the current purchase electricity menu for each of the multiple factories may be obtained from each of the multiple factories via the acquisition unit 11.

[0076] Next, the price calculation unit 15 sorts the factories in order of the lowest switching cost (S64). The price calculation unit 15 sorts the factories in the list, which associates factories with planned electricity purchases and switching costs, in order of the lowest switching cost. Alternatively, the price calculation unit 15 may sort the factories in order of the lowest CO2-free option fee.

[0077] Next, the price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus until the excess amount predicted in step S40 is eliminated (S65). The price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus based on the switching costs. For example, the price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus until the excess amount, which is the predicted excess amount of the CO2 emission limit for the target period (1 year), is eliminated, based on a sorted list. The price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus so that the planned amount of electricity purchased matches or exceeds the excess amount.

[0078] Furthermore, when the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost using the second procurement method, it selects one or more factories from among multiple factories (an example of multiple aggregation units) to calculate the cost using the second procurement method, on a factory-by-factory basis.

[0079] For example, the price calculation unit 15 may select factories to switch electricity contract menus in order from the top of the sorted list so that the planned electricity purchase amount matches or exceeds the excess amount. This makes it possible for the price calculation unit 15 to select factories to switch electricity contract menus in a way that results in a lower second cost. In this way, the price calculation unit 15 also functions as a selection unit. For example, the price calculation unit 15 may select one or more factories from among several factories to switch electricity contract menus in a way that minimizes the cost of the second procurement method.

[0080] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the sum of the switching costs for the selected factories' electricity contract menus (S66). The price calculation unit 15 calculates the sum of the switching costs for the one or more factories selected in step S65. The sum of costs calculated in step S66 corresponds to the second cost.

[0081] Referring again to Figure 5, the selection unit 16 determines whether the second cost is greater than the first cost (S70). If the selection unit 16 determines that the second cost is greater than the first cost (Yes in S70), it notifies the notification unit 17 of an instruction to purchase CO2 emission allowances (S80). If the selection unit 16 determines that the second cost is less than or equal to the first cost (No in S70), it notifies the notification unit 17 of an instruction to switch the electricity contract menu (S90). As a result, when the predicted value of CO2 emissions is expected to exceed the CO2 emission limit, the procurement method of the cheaper of the first and second costs is selected. Therefore, according to the support system 10, it is possible to suppress the exceeding of the CO2 emission limit while suppressing costs.

[0082] Furthermore, if the determination unit 14 determines that the predicted CO2 emission value does not exceed the CO2 emission limit (No in S30), the price calculation unit 15 calculates the surplus and calculates the first and second profits shown below. Note that the processing from step S110 onward may be executed only if the surplus amount of the CO2 emission limit calculated in step S100 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0083] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the surplus amount of the CO2 emission limit (CO2 surplus emissions) (S100). The price calculation unit 15 predicts the surplus amount as the value obtained by subtracting the CO2 emission forecast value of business operator 20 calculated in step S20 from the CO2 emission limit of business operator 20.

[0084] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the profit (first profit) when selling CO2 emission allowances (carbon credits) in the emission allowance trading market 40 (S110). The profit calculated in step S110 corresponds to the profit from the first consumption method. The price calculation unit 15 calculates (predicts) the first profit based, for example, on the history of the trading price (selling price) of carbon credits in the emission allowance trading market 40 and the surplus amount. A machine learning model may be used to calculate the first profit. This machine learning model is a machine learning model that takes the history of the trading price and the surplus amount in the emission allowance trading market 40 as input and outputs the timing of the sale of CO2 emission allowances and the profit. The price calculation unit 15 also calculates the profit (second profit) when switching electricity contract menus at multiple factories (S120). The profit calculated in step S120 corresponds to the profit from the second consumption method described above.

[0085] Here, the calculation of the second profit will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart (CO2 emission target achievement support method) that shows step S120 shown in Figure 5 in detail. Steps S121 and S122 shown in Figure 7 are the same processes as steps S61 and S62 shown in Figure 6, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0086] As shown in Figure 7, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost to be deducted (deduction cost) for each factory due to the switching of the electricity contract menu (S123). If each factory is currently receiving electricity under the purchased electricity menu A (a menu with a CO2 emission factor of 0) shown in Figure 4, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the deduction cost (profit) when switching from purchased electricity menu A to purchased electricity menu B (a menu with a CO2 emission factor greater than 0).

[0087] The price calculation unit 15 calculates the reduced cost for each factory by multiplying the planned purchase amount (kWh) for each factory by the cost that will be reduced by switching the electricity contract menu (for example, the CO2-free option fee (yen / kWh) shown in Figure 4). It can also be said that the price calculation unit 15 calculates the cost for each factory to procure the planned purchase amount that is expected to be needed for the remaining period using CO2-free electricity.

[0088] Next, the price calculation unit 15 sorts the factories in descending order of the switching deduction cost (i.e., profit) (S124). The price calculation unit 15 sorts the factories in the list, which associates each factory with the planned purchase amount of electricity and the deduction cost, in descending order of the deduction cost. The price calculation unit 15 may also sort the factories in descending order of the CO2-free option fee.

[0089] Next, the price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus until the surplus is eliminated (for example, until the surplus CO2 emissions are used up) (S125). The price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus until the amount below the CO2 emission limit for the target period (1 year) is consumed, for example, based on a sorted list. The price calculation unit 15 selects factories to switch electricity contract menus such that the planned purchase amount matches the surplus CO2 emissions, or is less than the surplus CO2 emissions and is close to the surplus CO2 emissions.

[0090] For example, the price calculation unit 15 may select factories to switch electricity contract menus from the top of the sorted list such that the planned electricity purchase amount matches the CO2 surplus emissions, or is less than the CO2 surplus emissions and is close to the CO2 surplus emissions. This makes it possible for the price calculation unit 15 to select factories to switch electricity contract menus in a way that maximizes the second profit. In this way, the price calculation unit 15 also functions as a selection unit. For example, the price calculation unit 15 may select one or more factories from among several factories to switch electricity contract menus in a way that maximizes the profit from the second consumption method.

[0091] Next, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the total of the cost reductions for switching the selected factory's electricity contract menu (S126). The total of the cost reductions calculated here corresponds to the second profit.

[0092] Referring again to Figure 5, the next step is for the selection unit 16 to determine whether the first benefit is greater than the second benefit (S130). If the selection unit 16 determines that the first benefit is greater than the second benefit (Yes in S130), it notifies the notification unit 17 of the instruction to sell CO2 emission allowances (S140). If the selection unit 16 determines that the first benefit is less than or equal to the second benefit (No in S130), it notifies the notification unit 17 of the instruction to switch the electricity contract menu (S150).

[0093] As a result, if the predicted CO2 emissions are expected to fall below the CO2 emission limit, the higher of the two consumption methods (first and second benefits) will be selected, allowing the business operator 20 to obtain financial benefits within the limits of not exceeding the CO2 emission limit.

[0094] [3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the support system 10 according to this embodiment (an example of a carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system) includes an acquisition unit 11 that acquires the CO2 emission limit for the target period set by the business operator 20 and the energy usage record of the business operator 20 up to the first point in time during the target period; a CO2 calculation unit 12 (an example of a first calculation unit) that calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record; an estimation unit 13 (an example of a second calculation unit) that calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions; a determination unit 14 that determines whether the first estimated CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission limit; and, if the determination unit 14 determines that it exceeds the limit, a selection unit 16 that selects a recommended procurement method from among multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit.

[0095] As a result, when the support system 10 determines that the first estimated CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission limit, it selects a procurement method based on the cost of achieving the CO2 emission limit. By selecting a procurement method with low costs, it is possible to keep the costs of achieving the CO2 emission limit low.

[0096] Furthermore, if the determination unit 14 determines that an excess has been reached (Yes in S30), it calculates the excess CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. The system also includes a support system 10 and a price calculation unit 15 (an example of a calculation unit) that calculates the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods based on the excess CO2 emissions.

[0097] As a result, the price calculation unit 15 calculates costs using excess CO2 emissions, which allows for more accurate cost calculation compared to cases where excess CO2 emissions are not used.

[0098] Furthermore, the multiple procurement methods include procuring CO2 emission allowances from a CO2 emission allowance trading market and procuring CO2-free electricity by switching to CO2-free electricity. The price calculation unit 15 then calculates, as costs, a first cost when procuring CO2 emission allowances equivalent to excess CO2 emissions from an emission allowance trading market 40 (an example of a CO2 emission allowance trading market), and a second cost when procuring electricity equivalent to excess CO2 emissions using CO2-free electricity.

[0099] As a result, the selection unit 16 can select a procurement method using the first cost and the second cost, and by selecting the procurement method with the lower cost, it is possible to further reduce the cost related to achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0100] Furthermore, energy usage data is acquired for each of the multiple factories (an example of multiple aggregation units) of the business operator 20, and the estimated primary CO2 emissions for the target period are calculated by summing the estimated secondary CO2 emissions estimated for each of the multiple factories. In calculating the secondary cost, the price calculation unit 15 selects one or more factories from among the multiple factories to calculate the secondary cost for each factory (factory unit).

[0101] As a result, the target for calculating the second cost is selected for each factory, which allows the second cost to be kept lower compared to when all factories are selected. Therefore, the support system 10 can keep the costs related to achieving the CO2 emission limit lower.

[0102] Furthermore, the price calculation unit 15 calculates the estimated third-order CO2 emissions expected to be emitted for the remaining period from the first point in time during the target period, and the switching costs required to switch to CO2-free electricity for each of the multiple factories, and selects one or more factories based on the estimated third-order CO2 emissions and switching costs for each of the multiple factories.

[0103] This allows for the selection of one or more factories to minimize switching costs, thereby further reducing the second cost. Consequently, the support system 10 can further reduce the costs associated with achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0104] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the production plan for the target period and the production results up to the first point in time during the target period. The price calculation unit 15 then calculates the purchase energy consumption per unit, which indicates the amount of electricity required to produce the target product at each of the multiple factories, based on the production results and energy consumption per unit for each of the multiple factories. Based on the production plan and purchase energy consumption per unit for each of the multiple factories, it calculates the planned purchase energy amount for each of the multiple factories for the remaining period. Based on the planned purchase energy amount for each of the multiple factories, it calculates the switching costs for each of the multiple factories.

[0105] As a result, the price calculation unit 15 can calculate the planned energy purchase amount more accurately by using information measured up to the first point in time within the target period. This leads to an accurate calculation of the second cost.

[0106] Furthermore, the price calculation unit 15 selects one or more factories from multiple factories in such a way that the second cost is minimized.

[0107] As a result, the support system 10 can minimize the second cost, making it possible to further reduce the cost associated with achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0108] Furthermore, the selection unit 16 compares the first cost and the second cost and selects the procurement method with the lower cost as the recommended procurement method.

[0109] As a result, the support system 10 selects the procurement method with the lower cost between the first cost and the second cost, making it possible to more reliably keep the costs related to achieving the CO2 emission limit low.

[0110] Furthermore, if the determination unit 14 determines that the limit is not exceeded (No in S30), the selection unit 16 selects a recommended digestion method from among multiple digestion methods based on the benefits of each digestion method for achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to eliminate the difference between the CO2 emission limit and the first estimated CO2 emission limit.

[0111] As a result, when the support system 10 determines that the first estimated CO2 emissions do not exceed the CO2 emission limit, it selects a means of consumption based on the benefit related to achieving the CO2 emission limit. Therefore, by selecting a means of consumption that provides a large benefit, it is possible to increase the benefit related to achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0112] Furthermore, if the determination unit 14 determines that there is no excess, it calculates the surplus CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. The support system 10 also includes a price calculation unit 15 (an example of a fourth calculation unit) that calculates the profit for each of the multiple consumption methods based on the surplus CO2 emissions.

[0113] As a result, the price calculation unit 15 calculates profit using surplus CO2 emissions, which allows for more accurate profit calculation compared to when surplus CO2 emissions are not used.

[0114] Furthermore, the multiple consumption methods include consumption through the sale of CO2 emission allowances in the emission allowance trading market 40 and consumption through switching to CO2-free electricity. The calculation unit then calculates a first profit when CO2 emission allowances equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions are sold in the emission allowance trading market 40, and a second profit when electricity equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity.

[0115] As a result, the selection unit 16 can select a digestion method using the first and second benefits, and by selecting the digestion method that yields a greater benefit, it is possible to increase the benefit related to achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0116] Furthermore, the selection unit 16 compares the first benefit and the second benefit and selects the consumption method that yields the greater benefit as the recommended consumption method.

[0117] As a result, the support system 10 selects the means of consumption that yields the greater of the first and second benefits, making it possible to more reliably increase the benefits related to achieving the CO2 emission limit.

[0118] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the production plan for the target period and the production results up to the first point in time during the target period, and the estimation unit 13 further calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the production plan and production results.

[0119] As a result, the estimation unit 13 further utilizes the production plan and production results, enabling it to accurately predict the CO2 emissions to be emitted during the remaining period of the target period. This leads to the accurate calculation of the first estimated CO2 emissions.

[0120] Furthermore, it includes a notification unit 17 that notifies the selection result of the selection unit 16.

[0121] This allows the selection results to be notified to external devices (for example, devices managed by the user).

[0122] Furthermore, as described above, the CO2 emission target achievement support method according to this embodiment acquires the CO2 emission upper limit for the target period set by the business operator 20 and the energy usage record of the business operator 20 up to the first point in time during the target period (S10), calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record, calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions (S20), determines whether the first estimated CO2 emissions exceed the CO2 emission upper limit (S30), and if it is determined that it exceeds the limit (Yes in S30), selects a recommended procurement method from among multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission upper limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit.

[0123] This will produce the same effect as the support system 10 described above.

[0124] (Other embodiments) Although the support system 10, etc., according to one or more embodiments has been described above based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. As long as it does not depart from the spirit of the present invention, various modifications that a person skilled in the art can conceive of will be applied to these embodiments, and forms constructed by combining components from different embodiments may also be included in the present invention.

[0125] For example, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the support system 10 performs the selection of procurement means when the CO2 emission limit is exceeded, and the selection of consumption means when the limit is not exceeded. However, it is sufficient to perform at least one of these actions.

[0126] Such a support system 10 (an example of a CO2 emission target achievement support system) may include: an acquisition unit 11 that acquires the CO2 emission limit for the target period set for the business operator 20 and the energy usage record of the business operator 20 up to the first point in time during the target period; a CO2 calculation unit 12 that calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record; an estimation unit 13 that calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions; a determination unit 14 that determines whether a difference (for example, a difference greater than a predetermined amount) occurs between the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit; and, if the determination unit 14 determines that a difference occurs (for example, a difference greater than a predetermined amount), a selection unit 16 that selects a recommended difference-resolving means from among multiple difference-resolving means (for example, multiple procurement means or multiple consumption means) based on the price (cost or profit) of each of the multiple difference-resolving means related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation in which the difference occurs.

[0127] Furthermore, steps to notify the user of the selection result by the selection unit 16 may be included between steps S70 and S80, between steps S70 and S90, between steps S130 and S140, and between steps S130 and S150, as shown in Figure 5 of the above embodiment. Steps S80, S90, S140, and S150 may also be performed after obtaining user permission to notify the user of the selection result (permission to execute instructions regarding CO2 emission allowances included in the selection result or instructions regarding switching electricity contract menus).

[0128] Furthermore, the price calculation unit 15 in the above embodiment may notify the user of the rearranged list or the list before rearrangement via the notification unit 17. Also, at least one of the one or more factories selected in at least one of steps S65 and S125 may be a factory selected by the user based on the list.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each component may be implemented by being composed of dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0130] Furthermore, the order in which each step in the flowchart is executed is illustrative for the purpose of specifically illustrating the present invention, and may be in a different order. Also, some of the above steps may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, and some of the above steps may not be executed.

[0131] Furthermore, the division of functional blocks in the block diagram is just one example; multiple functional blocks can be implemented as a single functional block, a single functional block can be divided into multiple parts, or some functions can be moved to other functional blocks. In addition, the functions of multiple functional blocks with similar functions can be processed in parallel or time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0132] Furthermore, the support system 10 according to the above embodiment may be implemented as a single device or as a plurality of devices. When the support system 10 is implemented as a plurality of devices, the various components of the support system 10 may be distributed among the plurality of devices in any manner. When the support system 10 is implemented as a plurality of devices, the method of communication between the plurality of devices is not particularly limited and may be wireless communication or wired communication. In addition, wireless communication and wired communication may be combined between the devices.

[0133] Furthermore, each component described in the above embodiment may be implemented as software, or typically as an integrated circuit (LSI). These may be individually integrated onto a single chip, or some or all of them may be integrated onto a single chip. Here, we refer to them as LSIs, but depending on the degree of integration, they may also be called ICs, system LSIs, super LSIs, or ultra LSIs. Moreover, the method of integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSIs; it may also be implemented using dedicated circuits (general-purpose circuits that execute dedicated programs) or general-purpose processors. After LSI manufacturing, a programmable FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or a reconfigurable processor that allows for the reconfiguration of the connections or settings of circuit cells inside the LSI may be used. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit implementation technology that replaces LSIs emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology or other derived technologies, it is naturally possible to integrate the components using that technology.

[0134] A system LSI is a highly functional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple processing units onto a single chip. Specifically, it is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and other components. The ROM stores the computer program. The system LSI achieves its function by operating according to the computer program, with the microprocessor performing its operations.

[0135] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention may be a computer program that causes a computer to execute each characteristic step included in the CO2 emission target achievement support method shown in any of Figures 5 to 7.

[0136] Furthermore, for example, the program may be a program to be executed by a computer. In another aspect of the present invention, such a program may be recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium. For example, such a program may be recorded on a recording medium and distributed or made available. For example, by installing the distributed program on a device having another processor and having that processor execute the program, it becomes possible to have that device perform the above-mentioned processes.

[0137] (Note) (Technology 1) An acquisition unit that acquires the CO2 emission limit for the target period set for the business operator, and the energy usage record of the business operator up to the first point in time during the target period, A first calculation unit calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record, A second calculation unit calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions, A determination unit that determines whether the first estimated CO2 emission exceeds the CO2 emission limit, If the determination unit determines that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the selection unit selects a recommended procurement method from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the CO2 emission limit to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

[0138] (Technology 2) If the determination unit determines that an excess has been reached, it calculates the excess CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. Furthermore, it includes a third calculation unit that calculates the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods based on the excess CO2 emissions. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 1.

[0139] (Technology 3) The aforementioned multiple procurement methods include the procurement of CO2 emission allowances from the CO2 emission allowance trading market and the procurement of said CO2-free electricity by switching to CO2-free electricity. The third calculation unit calculates the following costs: a first cost when the CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the excess CO2 emissions are procured from the CO2 emission allowance trading market, and a second cost when the electricity corresponding to the excess CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 2.

[0140] (Technology 4) The aforementioned energy usage data is obtained for each of the multiple aggregation units of the aforementioned business operator. The first estimated CO2 emissions for the aforementioned period are calculated by summing the second estimated CO2 emissions estimated for each of the multiple aggregation units. The third calculation unit, in calculating the second cost, selects one or more aggregation units from among the plurality of aggregation units for each aggregation unit to calculate the second cost. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 3.

[0141] (Technology 5) The third calculation unit is, In each of the aforementioned aggregation units, the estimated third CO2 emissions expected to be emitted during the remaining period from the first point in time onward in the target period, and the switching costs required for switching to CO2-free electricity are calculated. Based on the estimated third CO2 emissions and the switching costs for each of the multiple aggregation units, one or more aggregation units are selected. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 4.

[0142] (Technology 6) The acquisition unit further acquires the production plan for the target period and the production results up to the first point in time during the target period. The third calculation unit is, Based on the production results and energy usage results up to the first point in time for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, the purchase energy consumption unit, which indicates the amount of electricity required for the production of the target object for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, is calculated. Based on the production plan and the purchased energy unit cost for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, the planned energy purchase amount for the remaining period for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units is calculated. Based on the planned energy purchase amount for each of the multiple aggregation units, the switching cost for each of the multiple aggregation units is calculated. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 5.

[0143] (Technology 7) The third calculation unit selects one or more aggregation units from the plurality of aggregation units so as to minimize the second cost. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in any of technologies 4-6.

[0144] (Technology 8) The selection unit compares the first cost and the second cost and selects the procurement method with the lower cost as the recommended procurement method. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in any of technologies 3 to 7.

[0145] (Technology 9) If the determination unit determines that the CO2 emission limit is not exceeded, the selection unit selects a recommended digestion method from among the multiple digestion methods based on the benefit of each digestion method for achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to eliminate the difference between the CO2 emission limit and the first estimated CO2 emission limit. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in any of technologies 1 to 8.

[0146] (Technology 10) If the determination unit determines that the limit is not exceeded, it calculates the surplus CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. Furthermore, it includes a fourth calculation unit that calculates the profit of each of the plurality of digestion means based on the surplus CO2 emissions. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 9.

[0147] (Technology 11) The aforementioned multiple consumption methods include consumption through the sale of CO2 emission allowances in the CO2 emission allowance trading market and consumption through switching to CO2-free electricity. The fourth calculation unit calculates the first profit when CO2 emission allowances equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions are sold on the CO2 emission allowance trading market, and the second profit when electricity equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 10.

[0148] (Technology 12) The selection unit compares the first benefit and the second benefit and selects the digestion method that yields the greater benefit as the recommended digestion method. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in Technology 11.

[0149] (Technology 13) The acquisition unit further acquires the production plan for the target period and the production results up to the first point in time during the target period. The second calculation unit further calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the production plan and the actual production results. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in any of technologies 1 to 12.

[0150] (Technology 14) Furthermore, it includes a notification unit that notifies the selection result of the selection unit. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets as described in any of technologies 1 to 13.

[0151] (Technology 15) The CO2 emission limit set for the business operator during the target period, and the energy usage record of the said business operator up to the first point in time during the said target period are obtained. Based on the aforementioned energy usage data, the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period are calculated. Based on the aforementioned actual CO2 emissions, the first estimated CO2 emissions for the aforementioned period are calculated. Determine whether the first estimated CO2 emission exceeds the CO2 emission limit. If it is determined that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the recommended procurement method will be selected from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. Methods to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0152] 10. Support System (Support System for Achieving Carbon Dioxide Emission Targets) 11 Acquisition Department 12 CO2 calculation section (1st calculation section) 13 Estimation part (second calculation part) 14 Judgment section 15. Price calculation section (3rd calculation section, 4th calculation section) 16 Selection Section 17 Notification Department 20 businesses

Claims

1. CO2 for the period set by the business operator ２ An acquisition unit that acquires the emission limit and the energy usage record of the said business operator up to the first point in time during the said target period, Based on the aforementioned energy usage data, CO2 up to the first point in time during the target period ２ The first calculation unit calculates actual emissions, The aforementioned CO ２ Based on actual emissions, the first CO2 for the aforementioned period ２ A second calculation unit that calculates estimated emissions, The first CO ２ The estimated emissions are the aforementioned CO ２ A determination unit that determines whether or not the discharge limit is exceeded, If the determination unit determines that it exceeds the limit, the CO2 will be used to resolve the excess situation. ２ A selection unit that selects a recommended procurement method from among multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the emission limit, If the determination unit determines that an excess has been reached, it calculates the excess CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. Furthermore, it includes a third calculation unit that calculates the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods based on the excess CO2 emissions, The aforementioned multiple procurement methods include the procurement of CO2 emission allowances from the CO2 emission allowance trading market. The third calculation unit calculates the first cost as the cost when the CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the excess CO2 emissions are procured from the CO2 emission allowance trading market. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

2. The plurality of procurement means further include the procurement of CO2-free electricity by switching to CO2-free electricity, The third calculation unit further calculates a second cost for the case where electricity equivalent to the excess CO2 emissions is procured using CO2-free electricity. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned energy usage data is obtained for each of the multiple aggregation units of the aforementioned business operator. Said first CO₂ in said target period ２ The estimated emission amount is the second CO₂ estimated for each of said plurality of aggregation units ２ calculated from the sum of estimated emission amounts, The third calculation unit, in calculating the second cost, selects one or more aggregation units from among the plurality of aggregation units for each aggregation unit to calculate the second cost. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 2.

4. The third calculation unit is, In each of the aforementioned aggregation units, the third CO2 expected to be emitted during the remaining period from the first point in time in the target period is ２ Estimated emissions, and the CO2 ２ We will calculate the switching costs required to switch to free electricity. Each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, the 3rd CO ２ Based on the estimated emissions and the switching costs, select one or more aggregation units. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 3.

5. The acquisition unit further acquires the production plan for the target period and the production results up to the first point in time during the target period. The third calculation unit is, Based on the production results and energy usage results up to the first point in time for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, the purchase energy consumption unit, which indicates the amount of electricity required for the production of the target object for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, is calculated. Based on the production plan and the purchased energy unit cost for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units, the planned energy purchase amount for the remaining period for each of the aforementioned multiple aggregation units is calculated. Based on the planned energy purchase amount for each of the multiple aggregation units, the switching cost for each of the multiple aggregation units is calculated. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 4.

6. The third calculation unit selects one or more aggregation units from the plurality of aggregation units so as to minimize the second cost. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

7. The selection unit compares the first cost and the second cost and selects the procurement method with the lower cost as the recommended procurement method. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

8. If the determination unit determines that the CO does not exceed the limit, the selection unit will then select the CO. ２ Emission limit and the above 1CO ２ The CO2 to eliminate the difference with the estimated emissions ２ Based on the benefits of each of the multiple digestion methods for achieving the upper limit of discharge, a recommended digestion method is selected from among the multiple digestion methods. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. If the determination unit determines that it does not exceed the limit, the first CO ２ Estimated emissions and the CO2 ２ Based on the emission limit, CO2 during the aforementioned period ２ Calculate the excess emissions, Furthermore, the aforementioned CO ２ The system includes a fourth calculation unit that calculates the profit of each of the plurality of digestion means based on the surplus discharge amount. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 8.

10. An acquisition unit that acquires the CO2 emission limit for a target period set by the business operator, and the energy usage record of the business operator up to a first point in time during the target period, A first calculation unit calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record, A second calculation unit calculates the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period based on the actual CO2 emissions, A determination unit that determines whether the first estimated CO2 emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission limit, If the determination unit determines that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the system includes a selection unit that selects a recommended procurement method from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the CO2 emission limit to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. If the determination unit determines that the CO2 emission limit is not exceeded, the selection unit selects a recommended digestion method from among the multiple digestion methods based on the benefit of each digestion method in achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to eliminate the difference between the CO2 emission limit and the first estimated CO2 emission limit. If the determination unit determines that the limit is not exceeded, it calculates the surplus CO2 emissions for the target period based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit. Furthermore, it includes a fourth calculation unit that calculates the profit of each of the plurality of digestion means based on the excess CO2 emissions, The aforementioned multiple digestion means are CO ２ CO2 emissions trading market ２ Including the sale of emission allowances, The fourth calculation unit is the CO ２ CO2 equivalent to surplus emissions ２ The CO2 emission slot ２ Calculate the first profit when selling on the emissions trading market. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

11. The plurality of digestion means further include digestion by switching to CO2 non-free electricity, The fourth calculation unit further calculates a second profit when electricity equivalent to the surplus CO2 emissions is procured using the CO2-free electricity. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 10.

12. The selection unit compares the first benefit and the second benefit and selects the digestion method that yields the greater benefit as the recommended digestion method. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to claim 11.

13. An acquisition unit that acquires the CO2 emission limit for a target period set by the business operator, the energy usage record of the business operator up to a first point in time during the target period, the production plan for the target period, and the production record up to a first point in time during the target period, A first calculation unit calculates the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period based on the energy usage record, Based on the aforementioned CO2 actual emissions, the aforementioned production plan, and the aforementioned production results, the first CO2 for the aforementioned period ２ A second calculation unit that calculates estimated emissions, A determination unit that determines whether the first estimated CO2 emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission limit, If the determination unit determines that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the selection unit selects a recommended procurement method from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the CO2 emission limit to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. A system to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

14. Furthermore, it includes a notification unit that notifies the selection result of the selection unit. A carbon dioxide emission target achievement support system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. A method for supporting the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets, which is performed by a computer system, CO2 for the period set by the business operator ２ Obtain the emission limit and the energy usage record of the said business operator up to the first point in time during the said target period, Based on the aforementioned energy usage data, CO2 up to the first point in time during the target period ２ Calculate actual emissions, The aforementioned CO ２ Based on actual emissions, the first CO2 for the aforementioned period ２ Calculate estimated emissions, The first CO ２ The estimated emissions are the aforementioned CO ２ Determine whether or not the emission limit is exceeded. If it is determined that the limit has been exceeded, Based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit, the excess CO2 emissions during the target period are calculated. Based on the aforementioned excess CO2 emissions, the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods is calculated. The CO2 to resolve the excess situation ２ Based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the emission limit, a recommended procurement method is selected from among the multiple procurement methods. The aforementioned multiple procurement methods include the procurement of CO2 emission allowances from the CO2 emission allowance trading market. The first cost is calculated as the cost of each of the aforementioned multiple procurement methods when the CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the excess CO2 emissions are procured from the CO2 emission allowance trading market. Methods to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

16. A method for supporting the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets, which is performed by a computer system, The maximum CO2 emission limit set for the business operator during the target period, and the energy usage record of the said business operator up to the first point in time during the said target period are obtained. Based on the aforementioned energy usage data, the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period are calculated. Based on the aforementioned actual CO2 emissions, the first estimated CO2 emissions for the aforementioned period are calculated. Determine whether the first estimated CO2 emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission limit. If it is determined that the limit has been exceeded, a recommended procurement method will be selected from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods for achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. If it is determined that it does not exceed the limit, Based on the benefits of each of the multiple digestion methods for achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to eliminate the difference between the CO2 emission limit and the first estimated CO2 emission limit, a recommended digestion method is selected from among the multiple digestion methods. Based on the first estimated CO2 emissions and the CO2 emission limit, the surplus CO2 emissions during the target period are calculated. Furthermore, based on the surplus CO2 emissions, the profit of each of the multiple digestion means is calculated, The aforementioned multiple consumption means include consumption through the sale of CO2 emission allowances in the CO2 emission allowance trading market. The first profit is calculated when CO2 emission allowances corresponding to the surplus CO2 emissions are sold on the CO2 emission allowance trading market. Methods to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

17. A method for supporting the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets, which is performed by a computer system, The CO2 emission limit set for the business operator for the target period, the energy usage record of the business operator up to the first point in time during the target period, the production plan for the target period, and the production record up to the first point in time during the target period are obtained. Based on the aforementioned energy usage data, the actual CO2 emissions up to the first point in time during the target period are calculated. Based on the aforementioned actual CO2 emissions, the aforementioned production plan, and the aforementioned production results, the first estimated CO2 emissions for the target period are calculated. Determine whether the first estimated CO2 emission amount exceeds the CO2 emission limit. If it is determined that the CO2 emission limit has been exceeded, the recommended procurement method will be selected from among the multiple procurement methods based on the cost of each of the multiple procurement methods related to achieving the CO2 emission limit in order to resolve the situation of exceeding the limit. Methods to support the achievement of carbon dioxide emission targets.

18. A program for executing the carbon dioxide emission target achievement support method described in any one of Claims 15 to 17 on the computer system.

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