Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

In the event of a disaster, power supply will be adjusted according to the extent of the damage. [Solution] An information processing device according to one embodiment includes a first receiving unit that receives a DR request, a first instruction unit that instructs equipment within the customer to operate in response to the DR request, a second receiving unit that receives disaster information in a certain area, and a second instruction unit that, independently of the DR request, instructs equipment within the customer belonging to the area related to the disaster information to operate in a manner determined for each piece of equipment.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to power supply and demand control at a consumer site. [[Background Art]]

[0002] In recent years, along with the tightening of power supply and demand or the expanded introduction of renewable energy, demand response (DR) has become increasingly important. DR is an initiative to achieve stable power supply by suppressing power consumption on the consumer side and effectively utilizing distributed power sources during peak power demand periods. In conventional DR systems, it has been common to control devices in the consumer premises, such as air conditioners, water heaters, storage batteries, etc., in response to a DR request from a power provider.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for performing demand response control to stabilize a power system. This technique achieves leveling of power demand by controlling devices on the consumer side according to the power supply and demand situation. Further, Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 disclose control that prioritizes charging of a power storage device when a disaster occurs. In these techniques, electric power is stored in the power storage device in preparation for a power outage caused by a disaster, so that the power storage device functions as an emergency power source. Furthermore, Patent Document 4 discloses a technique that utilizes a battery of an electric vehicle for DR. This technique stabilizes power supply by supplying electric power from the electric vehicle to the power system when a disaster occurs. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0004] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Patent No. 6955122 [[Patent Document 2]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-58999 [[Patent Document 3]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-59007 [[Patent Document 4]] Japanese Patent No. 7475377 [[Summary of the Invention]] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] None of the technologies described in Patent Documents 1 to 4 were designed to adjust power supply according to the disaster situation.

[0006] In contrast, this disclosure provides a technology for adjusting power supply according to the extent of the damage during a disaster. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an information processing device having: a first receiving unit for receiving DR requests; a first instruction unit for instructing equipment within a customer to operate in response to the DR requests; a second receiving unit for receiving disaster information in a certain area; and a second instruction unit for instructing equipment within a customer belonging to the area related to the disaster information to operate in a manner determined for each piece of equipment, independently of the DR requests.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method comprising the steps of: receiving a DR request; instructing equipment within a customer to operate in response to the DR request; receiving disaster information in a certain area; and instructing equipment within a customer belonging to the area related to the disaster information to operate independently of the DR request, with the operation determined for each piece of equipment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, power supply can be adjusted according to the extent of the damage in the event of a disaster. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] An overview diagram of the power supply system. [Figure 2] Functional configuration of power adjustment system 1. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10. [Figure 4] Flowchart of DR instructions during normal operation. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating demand forecasting. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating the process of issuing instructions during a disaster. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating electricity demand forecasting during a disaster. [Figure 8] A diagram illustrating operational policies based on the extent of the damage. [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating the classification of equipment. [Figure 10] A diagram illustrating driving instructions. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] 1. Structure Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a power supply system S according to one embodiment. In general, the power supply system S is a system for supplying electricity generated by a power generator to a consumer U. The power supply system S includes a power adjustment system 1, a power generator 2, a transmission and distribution company 3, a power market 4, a power retailer 5, a wide-area organization 6, and a disaster information source 7. The power adjustment system 1 adjusts the power supply to consumer U according to the disaster information provided by the disaster information source 7.

[0012] Demand response (DR) control is implemented to adjust the balance between electricity supply and demand. DR control is a mechanism for adjusting the balance between electricity demand and supply. Specifically, DR control is a mechanism in which a consumer U participates in DR in response to a request from a power company, etc., that is, by adjusting their own electricity usage, thereby contributing to the stabilization of the power grid. In general, consumers, especially those who have installed battery storage systems, may prioritize participation in DR in order to recoup their investment. However, in special circumstances, such as during a disaster, prioritizing participation in DR may result in the battery storage system not being sufficiently charged, potentially hindering disaster response. Power adjustment system 1 addresses this problem.

[0013] Demander U is the final power consuming entity in the power supply system S. Demander U includes any entity that requires electric power, such as general households, offices, or factories. Demander U includes various devices for receiving, converting, distributing, consuming, measuring and storing electric power. Demander U has various types of equipment related to power adjustment. Such equipment includes, for example, solar cells, junction boxes, distribution boards, home appliances, storage batteries, and smart meters (none of which are shown in the drawings).

[0014] A solar cell is a device that converts solar energy into electric power, and is used as an on-site power generation means for demander U. The electric power generated by the solar cell is converted into AC power by a power conditioner and supplied to the interior of demander U. The power conditioner also plays a role in optimizing the power generated by the solar cell and supplying stable electric power.

[0015] A junction box is a device for consolidating wiring from a plurality of solar cell modules and connecting the consolidated wiring to a power conditioner. The junction box is provided with an overcurrent protection function, a switch, and the like, and ensures the safety of the power system.

[0016] A distribution board is a device that distributes electric power from an electric power company or electric power generated by solar cells to each home appliance within the premises of demander U. The distribution board is provided with breakers and the like, and protects home appliances from accidents such as overcurrent and electric leakage.

[0017] Home appliances are devices that actually consume electric power at the site of demander U, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and lighting. The power consumption patterns of these home appliances are grasped by the power adjustment system 1, and are subject to DR control or operation control during disasters.

[0018] A storage battery is a device that stores electric power and discharges the electric power when necessary, and is used for effective utilization of electric power generated by solar cells or as an emergency power source during power outages. Charging and discharging of the storage battery is controlled by the power adjustment system 1, and contributes to DR control or stabilization of power supply during disasters.

[0019] A smart meter is a device that measures electricity usage and transmits the data to the power company or the power adjustment system. Smart meters are used to visualize electricity usage or to provide information for demand response (DR) control.

[0020] The power adjustment system 1 is the core system of this embodiment and provides various functions related to adjusting power supply and demand. The power adjustment system 1 is provided, for example, by a so-called aggregator. The power adjustment system 1 controls equipment within customer U in response to DR requests from the transmission and distribution company 3, and controls equipment within customer U based on disaster information from the disaster information source 7. The specific components and functions of the power adjustment system 1 will be described later.

[0021] Power generator 2 is responsible for generating electricity and supplying it to transmission and distribution company 3. Power generator 2 generates electricity using various power generation methods, including thermal power generation, hydroelectric power generation, nuclear power generation, and renewable energy generation. Power generator 2 adjusts the amount of electricity generated based on price fluctuations in the electricity market 4 and forecasts of electricity supply and demand.

[0022] The transmission and distribution operator 3 is responsible for delivering electricity supplied by the power generator 2 to the consumer U via the electricity retailer 5. The transmission and distribution operator 3 is responsible for maintaining a stable operation of the power grid and maintaining a balance between power supply and demand. The transmission and distribution operator 3 issues DR requests to the power adjustment system 1 as needed to suppress electricity consumption on the consumer side and to make effective use of distributed power sources.

[0023] Electricity Market 4 is a market where electricity is traded. Electricity Market 4 includes power generators 2 and electricity retailers 5, and prices fluctuate according to the supply and demand of electricity. Price information from Electricity Market 4 is used in DR control in the power adjustment system 1 to perform control that takes economic efficiency into consideration.

[0024] Electricity retailer 5 is responsible for procuring electricity from transmission and distribution company 3 and selling it to customer U. Based on the contract with customer U, electricity retailer 5 bills customers for electricity and provides information on electricity usage. Power generator 2, transmission and distribution company 3, and electricity retailer 5 are all examples of electricity businesses. One business may also serve as two or more of these entities.

[0025] The wide-area network 6 is a power transmission network connecting regions and enabling the exchange of electricity. The operation of the wide-area network 6 is carried out by organizations such as the Organization for Cross-regional Coordination of Transmission Operators (OCCTO). The wide-area network 6 plays an important role in adjusting the balance of electricity supply and demand on a wide-area basis.

[0026] Disaster information source 7 provides information on various types of disasters (hereinafter referred to as "disaster information"). Disasters here include, for example, at least one of the following: earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, tornadoes, floods, landslides, lightning strikes, and fires. Disaster information source 7 is either a government agency (e.g., the Japan Meteorological Agency, disaster prevention agencies, etc.) or a private information provider. Power adjustment system 1 performs disaster response control based on this information.

[0027] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the power adjustment system 1 according to this embodiment. The power adjustment system 1 comprises a receiving unit 12, a receiving unit 14, an instruction unit 13, an instruction unit 15, a storage unit 11, and a control unit 19. In this example, these elements are implemented in an information processing device 10. The information processing device 10 is a device that constitutes the power adjustment system 1 and functions as a so-called server.

[0028] The receiving unit 12 receives DR requests from the power transmission and distribution operator 3 (an example of the first receiving unit). DR requests are transmitted from the power transmission and distribution operator 3 to the power adjustment system 1, which is an aggregator, with the aim of suppressing power consumption on the consumer side or effectively utilizing distributed power sources when power supply and demand are tight. There are two types of DR requests: downward DR and upward DR. Downward DR is a request to suppress the amount of power used by consumer U during periods of high power demand. Upward DR is a request to increase the amount of power used by consumer U during periods of surplus power supply. A DR request includes information indicating the period to be covered and the amount of usage to be suppressed or increased. The instruction unit 13 instructs consumer U to operate equipment in response to the DR request received by the receiving unit 12 (an example of the first instruction unit). This instruction is an instruction in response to a DR request (DR instruction), and includes, for example, suppressing the output of an air conditioner or controlling the charging and discharging of a storage battery. Here, we will represent customers located in the disaster-stricken area as customer U[a], and customers located outside the disaster-stricken area as customer U[n].

[0029] The receiving unit 14 receives disaster information from the disaster information source 7 (an example of a second receiving unit). The disaster information is information related to the disaster, including, for example, the type of disaster, the location of occurrence, and the time of occurrence. Based on the disaster information received by the receiving unit 14, the instruction unit 15 instructs the customer U[a] to operate the equipment independently of the DR request (an example of a second instruction unit). This instruction includes selecting a predetermined operating mode for each piece of equipment according to the type, scale, and location of the disaster, and notifying the customer U[a] of this. For example, in the event of a power outage, priority may be given to discharging the storage battery or the power consumption of the air conditioner may be reduced. The instruction unit 15 generates these instructions based on control commands from the control unit 19 and transmits them to the customer U[a].

[0030] The storage unit 11 stores various databases. These databases are referenced in the control processing performed by the control unit 19. The storage unit 11 includes a disaster database 111, a market database 112, a customer database 113, and a power outage database 114.

[0031] The disaster database 111 stores the type of disaster and the corresponding operating mode of the equipment. The control unit 19 refers to the disaster database 111 based on the disaster information received by the receiving unit 14 and selects the optimal operating mode for the equipment.

[0032] The market database 112 stores price information and forecast information regarding electricity supply and demand in the electricity market. The control unit 19 refers to the market database 112 and performs DR control that takes economic efficiency into consideration.

[0033] The customer database 113 stores information such as the equipment configuration and power usage patterns for each customer. The control unit 19 refers to the customer database 113 and performs customized DR control for each customer.

[0034] The power outage database 114 stores information about past power outages and information about the expected time of power restoration. The control unit 19 refers to the power outage database 114 to determine the operating mode of the equipment during a power outage.

[0035] The control unit 19 controls the operation of the entire information processing device 10. For example, based on the information received by the receiving unit 12 or the receiving unit 14, the control unit 19 refers to the database stored in the storage unit 11 and generates instructions to be sent to an external device. By performing these processes in real time, the control unit 19 ensures both a stable power supply and improved convenience and safety for consumers.

[0036] Figure 3 illustrates the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10. Physically, the information processing device 10 is configured as a computer including a processor 101, memory 102, storage 103, communication device 104, input device (optional), display device (optional), and a bus connecting these. Each of these devices operates on power supplied from a battery (not shown). In the following description, the term "device" can be read as a circuit, device, unit, etc. The hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 may include one or more of the devices shown in Figure 3, or it may be configured without some of the devices. Alternatively, multiple devices with different enclosures may be connected via communication to constitute the information processing device 10.

[0037] Each function in the information processing device 10 is realized by loading predetermined software (programs) onto hardware such as the processor 101 and memory 102, which allows the processor 101 to perform calculations, control communication by the communication device 104, and control at least one of the reading and writing of data in the memory 102 and storage 103. Furthermore, the processor 101 modifies content using an AI module for content modification.

[0038] The processor 101 controls the entire computer, for example, by running the operating system. The processor 101 may consist of a central processing unit (CPU) that includes interfaces with peripheral devices, control units, arithmetic units, registers, etc. Alternatively, a baseband signal processing unit or a call processing unit may be implemented by the processor 101.

[0039] The processor 101 reads programs (program code), software modules, data, etc., from at least one of the storage 103 and the communication device 104 into the memory 102 and executes various processes accordingly. The program used is one that causes the computer to execute at least a part of the operations described later. The functional blocks of the information processing device 10 are stored in the memory 102 and may be realized by control programs that run on the processor 101. Various processes may be executed by one processor 101, or they may be executed simultaneously or sequentially by two or more processors 101. The processor 101 may be implemented by one or more chips. The program may also be transmitted to the information processing device 10 via a telecommunications line.

[0040] Memory 102 is a computer-readable recording medium and may consist of at least one of the following: ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Memory 102 may also be called a register, cache, main memory, etc. Memory 102 can store executable programs (program code), software modules, etc., for carrying out the method according to this embodiment. For example, memory 102 stores an AI module for modifying content.

[0041] The storage 103 is a computer-readable recording medium and may consist of at least one of the following: an optical disc such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc ROM), a hard disk drive, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk (e.g., a compact disc, a digital multipurpose disc, a Blu-ray® disc), a smart card, flash memory (e.g., a card, a stick, a key drive), a floppy® disk, a magnetic strip, etc. The storage 103 may also be called an auxiliary storage device.

[0042] The communication device 104 is hardware (transceiver / receiver device) for communicating between computers via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network, and is also referred to as a network device, network controller, network card, communication module, etc.

[0043] Each device, such as the processor 101 and memory 102, is connected by a bus for communicating information. The bus may be configured using a single bus, or different buses may be used for each device.

[0044] The information processing device 10 may include hardware such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and some or all of the functional blocks may be implemented by such hardware. For example, the processor 101 may be implemented using at least one of these hardware components.

[0045] In this example, the program stored in storage 103 includes a program (hereinafter referred to as the "server program") that causes the computer to function as a server in the power adjustment system 1. When the processor 101 is executing the server program, the processor 101, memory 102, storage 103, and communication device 104 are examples of functional blocks for operating the information processing device 10. The processor 101 is an example of a receiving unit 12, a receiving unit 14, an instruction unit 13, an instruction unit 15, and a control unit 19. At least one of the memory 102 and storage 103 is an example of a storage unit 11.

[0046] 2.Operation Figure 4 is a flowchart of the normal DR processing in the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment. This flowchart shows the procedure by which the information processing device 10 instructs customer U[n] to operate equipment in response to a DR request from the power transmission and distribution company 3.

[0047] In step S101, the information processing device 10 receives a DR request. In one example, the DR request is output by a power company, such as a transmission and distribution company 3 or a power retailer 5. Alternatively, the power adjustment system 1 itself may generate a DR request (autonomously). In this case, the power adjustment system 1 has a function to generate a DR request based on information obtained from other elements, and the information processing device 10 obtains the DR request from this function. Upon receiving the DR request, the information processing device 10 performs a demand forecast (step S102).

[0048] Figure 5 shows an example of electricity demand forecasting. This forecast is made using reference information such as area-specific demographic information and historical electricity usage data. In this example, the electricity supply area is divided into three areas: Area A, Area B, and Area C. Each area is analyzed based on statistical information such as the number of consumers, population, household information, electricity consumption, power generation, and energy storage. This information is recorded, for example, in the consumer database 113 and market database 112 of the information processing device 10. The information processing device 10 has a calculation formula, algorithm, or machine learning model that forecasts demand from this statistical information. The information processing device 10 may further incorporate environmental information indicating the environment of consumer U into the forecast. Environmental information includes, for example, weather information or weather forecasts for the area where consumer U is located, and calendar information for that area (indicating the presence or absence of major events, etc.).

[0049] In this example, Area A is the largest of the three areas, with 46,000 consumers and a population of 1.6 million. Household data shows that 14% are in their 20s and 16% are in their 30s, indicating a relatively high proportion of younger generations. Under normal circumstances, electricity consumption is projected to be 904 MW, power generation 1.39 million kW, and energy storage 350,000 kW.

[0050] Area B has 28,000 consumers and a population of 940,000, making it the second largest area after Area A. Household data shows that 10% are in their 20s and 15% are in their 30s, indicating a high proportion of younger generations, similar to Area A. Typical electricity consumption is projected at 537 MW, generation at 670,000 kW, and storage at 270,000 kW.

[0051] Area C is the smallest of the three areas, with 22,000 consumers and a population of 740,000. Household data shows that 9% are in their 20s and 12% are in their 30s, a lower proportion of younger generations compared to the other areas. Typical electricity consumption is projected at 437 MW, generation at 670,000 kW, and storage at 200,000 kW.

[0052] Refer to Figure 4 again. In step S103, the information processing device 10 instructs customer U[n] to operate the equipment based on the demand forecast obtained in step S102. This instruction is in response to a DR request, and is therefore called a "DR instruction". When generating a DR instruction, the information processing device 10 sequentially identifies each customer U and generates a DR instruction for that customer U.

[0053] To generate a DR instruction, the information processing device 10 refers to the customer database 113 and extracts customer U who are eligible for DR. In this extraction process, customer U who meet the given conditions, for example, customer U participating in the DR program or customer U belonging to a specific region, are extracted. The customer database 113 stores contract information for each customer U, as well as information such as the equipment configuration for that customer U. Next, the information processing device 10 refers to the market database 112 and obtains electricity market price information (step S103). This market price information is used to evaluate the economic effects of DR control. The market database 112 stores information on electricity market price fluctuations. Then, based on the DR request, customer information, and market price information, the information processing device 10 determines the operation of the equipment owned by that customer U. An algorithm for determining the operation of the equipment from the DR request, customer information, and market price information is defined, and the information processing device 10 determines the operation of the equipment according to this algorithm. The information processing device 10 generates an instruction to have the equipment perform the determined operation. The information processing device 10 transmits the generated instruction to the customer U[n].

[0054] This algorithm optimizes the operating patterns of customer-side equipment according to the content of the DR request. For example, during peak electricity demand, it suppresses the output of customer-side load equipment to shift the peak. Also, during periods of high electricity prices, it reduces the amount of electricity purchased and lowers electricity costs by supplying power by discharging from the customer's battery storage. Furthermore, this algorithm performs customized DR control for each customer based on individual circumstances, such as equipment configuration and power usage patterns. This enables efficient DR without compromising the comfort of the customer.

[0055] In this way, the information processing device 10 can ensure both a stable power supply and economic benefits for consumers by issuing DR instructions during normal operation according to the flowchart shown in Figure 4.

[0056] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the instruction output processing during a disaster. This flowchart shows the procedure for when the information processing device 10 receives disaster information and instructs customer U[a] to operate the equipment.

[0057] In step S201, the information processing device 10 receives disaster information from the disaster information source 7. This disaster information includes information about natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and floods. In step S202, the information processing device 10 predicts electricity demand based on the disaster information. This prediction is made using not only disaster information but also area-specific demographic information and past electricity usage data, as explained in Figure 5. Furthermore, electricity demand during a disaster is predicted taking into account the damage situation in each area.

[0058] Figure 7 shows the power demand forecast during a disaster in this embodiment. The information processing device 10 predicts power demand during a disaster based on statistical information for each area, as well as information such as the type, scale, and location of the disaster. For example, during an earthquake, power demand may surge in specific areas due to building collapse or the supply of power to evacuation centers. Also, during a typhoon approach, power outages may occur over a wide area due to strong winds and flooding.

[0059] In the affected area, power supply is interrupted, so demand is predicted to be 0 MW. However, if there is power supply from emergency power sources or storage batteries, demand may be generated accordingly. After N hours, in the affected area, demand is predicted to be higher than normal due to the resilience-prioritizing operation policy described later. Thus, the demand forecasting algorithm in the information processing device 10 incorporates the impact of each operation policy during a disaster. In the unaffected area, since no particular damage has occurred, demand is predicted to be approximately the same as normal.

[0060] Refer to Figure 6 again. In step S203, the information processing device 10 identifies the target customer U. Here, a predetermined algorithm identifies each target customer U from the population of customer U. In the event of a disaster, operation instructions are issued that are not based on DR requests (independent of DR requests), so the target customer U is identified regardless of whether or not they can participate in the DR program.

[0061] In step S204, the information processing device 10 determines whether the target customer belongs to a disaster-stricken area. This determination is made, for example, by comparing the disaster area information stored in the disaster database 111 with the customer location information stored in the customer database 113. If it is determined that the customer belongs to a disaster-stricken area (S204: YES), the information processing device 10 proceeds to step S205. If it is determined that the customer does not belong to a disaster-stricken area (S204: NO), the information processing device 10 proceeds to step S206.

[0062] In step S205, the information processing device 10 issues operating instructions that take into account the type of equipment and the extent of the damage. When explaining the operating instructions that take into account the extent of the damage, the first thing to do is to explain the operating policy according to the extent of the damage.

[0063] Figure 8 illustrates an example of an operating policy depending on the disaster situation. The information processing device 10 switches the operating instructions to customers based on the disaster situation in each area. This control makes it possible to ensure both a stable power supply and the safety of customers even during a disaster.

[0064] The power supply area is broadly divided into the business areas of the power transmission and distribution operators 3. In this example, the power supply area is broadly divided into two transmission and distribution areas: the K Power Area and the T Power Area. In this example, the disaster area is determined on a power supply area basis. For example, if a disaster occurs in a part of the K Power Area, the entire K Power Area is determined to be a disaster area. Furthermore, each power supply area is divided into multiple sub-areas based on geographical divisions. In the example in Figure 8, the K Power Area is divided into three sub-areas: Area A, Area B, and Area C. These area divisions are defined, for example, by local governments.

[0065] Disaster information includes information corresponding to these sub-areas. For example, disaster information for each sub-area includes the extent of damage, the status of power outages, the status of building collapses, and the status of disruptions to transportation infrastructure. The extent of damage is defined for each type of disaster. In the example in Figure 8, the extent of damage is defined as "damaged area," "damaged area after N hours," and "undamaged area" for the affected area. For the sake of explanation, let's consider an example where the disaster is a typhoon. The "damaged area" is the area that is currently or was in the storm zone during a certain period in the past (for example, within 4 hours). The "damaged area after N hours" is the area that is expected to enter the storm zone (or, as a more detailed example, the area to the right of the typhoon's path) within the next N hours, considering the typhoon's path forecast. The "undamaged area" is the area that is expected to be undamaged by the typhoon. The information processing device 10 determines the operating policy according to the extent of damage. The correspondence between the extent of damage and the operating policy is defined in the information processing device 10. In this example, the operating policy "Power Outage" is applied to the "Affected Area," the operating policy "Resilience Priority" is applied to the "Affected Area N Hours Later," and the operating policy "Economy Priority" is applied to the "Unaffected Area."

[0066] (1) During a power outage This is an operating policy assuming a power outage at customer U. Since a power outage has occurred, it is assumed that each piece of equipment operates using power supplied from the battery rather than the grid. Therefore, it is desirable for customer U to reduce power consumption. Each piece of equipment is categorized according to, for example, the level required for life support, and normal operation, power-saving operation, or shutdown are used accordingly. The equipment categorization is defined in the information processing device 10. This instruction includes, for example, prioritizing battery discharge, activating emergency power supplies, or suppressing the operation of load equipment. This ensures the safety of customer U during a power outage and supports early recovery.

[0067] (2) Prioritize resilience This is an operational policy based on the assumption that while electricity is currently being supplied normally to customer U, a power outage is expected in the next few hours (N hours). It is desirable to be prepared in advance so that there will be no problems even if a power outage occurs. The resilience-prioritizing operational instruction is an instruction to make this "advance preparation".

[0068] (3) Prioritizing economic efficiency This is an operating policy that prioritizes economic efficiency for customer U. Prioritizing economic efficiency means maximizing net monetary income from the purchase and sale of electricity during the period in question. Net monetary income refers to the monetary value obtained by subtracting the expenses for purchasing electricity from the income obtained from selling electricity. Monetary value includes not only currencies such as Japanese yen, but also so-called points, etc.

[0069] These operating policies are determined for each type of equipment. Power adjustment system 1 accommodates multiple types of equipment.

[0070] Figure 9 illustrates the classification of equipment controlled by power adjustment system 1. These devices are broadly classified into power supply equipment, power consumption equipment, and power management equipment, according to their function and characteristics. These are all examples of load equipment at customer U.

[0071] Power supply equipment is equipment that has the function of supplying electricity. Specifically, power supply equipment includes emergency generators, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and photovoltaic (PV) systems. These devices can contribute to stabilizing the power supply during disasters.

[0072] Power-consuming equipment refers to devices that consume electricity, and includes a variety of devices found in consumer premises. Power-consuming equipment can be further divided into household and commercial / industrial equipment. Furthermore, within each of the household and commercial / industrial equipment categories, devices can be divided into those that allow peak shifting and those that do not.

[0073] Peak-shiftable equipment is equipment that can adjust the timing of its power consumption. In DR control, these devices can contribute to leveling the power supply and demand by suppressing operation during peak power demand or by responding to peak shifts. Peak-shiftable equipment is equipment that has difficulty adjusting the timing of its power consumption. In DR control, these devices are primarily controlled to suppress power consumption.

[0074] Appliances in the home that can shift peak usage include refrigerators, electric water heaters / heat pumps, air conditioning equipment (air conditioners / humidifiers), and electric vehicles (EVs). These appliances often have timer and remote control functions, making them easy to implement with DR control. Appliances in the home that cannot shift peak usage include smart lighting, washing machines / dryers, dishwashers, and electronic locks. These appliances are closely related to daily life, making it difficult to adjust the timing of their power consumption.

[0075] Equipment in commercial and industrial facilities that can shift peak usage includes HVAC systems and manufacturing equipment and machinery. Equipment in commercial and industrial facilities that cannot shift peak usage includes elevators and escalators. For safety reasons, there are limitations on power consumption control for these devices.

[0076] Power management equipment includes devices that measure and control electricity, such as smart meters and smart plugs. These devices are used in DR control (Demand Response) disaster operation control, including remote control of power usage monitoring equipment. In this way, power adjustment system 1 enables optimal control according to the characteristics of each device by classifying the equipment in a multi-layered manner.

[0077] Figure 10 illustrates the operation instructions for each piece of equipment during a disaster in this embodiment. This information is recorded, for example, in the disaster database 111. In this example, the disaster database 111 has multiple records relating to operation instructions for each piece of equipment. Each record contains information about the operation instructions for a piece of equipment corresponding to a certain operation policy during a certain disaster. Information relating to operation instructions refers, for example, to the operation instructions themselves.

[0078] For example, regarding emergency generators, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "power outage," the operating instruction is "operate." This is a measure to supply the necessary power during a power outage. Regarding emergency generators, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "resilience priority" (shown as "R priority" in the diagram), the operating instruction is "start." This is a measure to start the emergency generator before an actual power outage occurs and charge the battery with surplus power. Similarly, regarding emergency generators, if the disaster is an earthquake, the operating instruction is "stop" regardless of the operating policy. This is to avoid secondary damage such as fires caused by equipment tipping over due to the earthquake. When the operating policy is "resilience priority," the equipment may be instructed to stop by the time the earthquake arrives (this is indicated by disaster information or calculated by the information processing device 10 from the disaster information), and operation may continue until then.

[0079] For refrigerators, electric water heaters, heat pumps, or air conditioners, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "power outage," the operating instruction is "power saving." These devices are of high importance for maintaining the lives of disaster victims, so they will continue to operate, but since there is a power outage, power consumption should be reduced, so they should be instructed to operate in power saving mode. For refrigerators, electric water heaters, heat pumps, or air conditioners, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "resilience priority," the operating instruction is "increased operating intensity." Increased operating intensity means, for example, for air conditioners, setting the temperature higher (lower for cooling, higher for heating). For air conditioners or humidifiers, in addition to temperature settings, additional operating modes such as dehumidification mode may also be instructed. This is a measure to make the room cooler (or warmer) or less humid in advance so that a more comfortable environment can be maintained when these devices eventually stop operating due to a power outage. The same applies when the disaster is an earthquake.

[0080] For electric vehicles (EVs), if the disaster is a typhoon and the driving policy is "power outage," the driving instruction is "prioritize discharge." This is a measure to release the electric vehicle's battery as a power source for other devices. For electric vehicles, if the disaster is a typhoon and the driving policy is "prioritize resilience," the driving instruction is "prioritize energy storage." This is a measure to ensure that the amount of power that can be supplied to other devices during a power outage is secured by minimizing the decrease in the electric vehicle's battery charge (and increasing it if possible).

[0081] For manufacturing equipment and machinery, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "power outage," the operating instruction is "stop." This is a measure to suppress secondary damage such as equipment overturning or fire. For manufacturing equipment and machinery, if the disaster is a typhoon and the operating policy is "power outage," the operating instruction is "increase production." This is a measure to secure production volume in advance in preparation for production stoppages due to typhoons.

[0082] For smart meters, when the disaster is an earthquake and the operating policy is "power outage," the operating instruction is "shorten the polling interval." This is a measure to understand changes in power consumption in detail and to perform appropriate power control. For smart plugs, when the disaster is an earthquake and the operating policy is "power outage," a user-defined instruction is output. This is to control the on / off status of devices that the user has set in advance. For example, by setting certain devices to automatically shut down when an earthquake occurs, secondary disasters can be prevented.

[0083] Figure 10 is merely an example of operating instructions for each piece of equipment during a disaster. The information processing device 10 refers to the above information and generates and outputs operating instructions for each piece of equipment according to the type and circumstances of the disaster. In this way, the information processing device 10 contributes to the stable supply of electricity and the maintenance of a higher quality of life during a disaster.

[0084] Furthermore, if the target customer is located in the disaster-stricken area, but the sub-area is outside the disaster area, for example, in an area corresponding to area C in Figure 7, the operating policy is "prioritizing economic efficiency." When operating under the policy of prioritizing economic efficiency, the information processing device 10 considers the amount of electricity that is estimated to be lost compared to normal times (due to the disaster) based on disaster information, i.e., the amount of electricity that cannot be consumed due to the power outage, and instructs equipment outside the disaster area to operate in a way that compensates for this. In the example in Figure 7, since area A is unable to participate in the DR request due to the power outage, the electricity demand for the entire K Power area decreases. This may be undesirable from the standpoint of balancing the supply and demand of electricity, so in that case, the information processing device 10 instructs equipment outside the disaster area to operate in a way that consumes more electricity (for example, charging the storage battery). Customer U, who has increased demand, will be given some form of economic compensation by the power company.

[0085] Refer to Figure 6 again. In step S206, the information processing device 10 issues an operation instruction in response to the DR request. This operation instruction is the same as the operation instruction under normal circumstances.

[0086] Thus, the power adjustment system 1 can adjust the power supply and demand based on the damage situation of each consumer.

[0087] 3. Variant The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. Several modifications are described below. Some of the modifications described below may be applied in combination with other parts of the embodiments described above.

[0088] 3-1. Disaster Information Disaster information is not limited to the examples of embodiments. For example, the disaster is not limited to the examples of embodiments and may be a man-made disaster such as an explosion or terrorism. In addition to the type of disaster, disaster information may include detailed information such as scale, location, scope of impact, time of occurrence, and duration.

[0089] 3-2.Customer information The customer database 113 may also include more detailed attribute information (age, family structure, occupation, etc.) and lifestyle pattern information (time spent at home, time spent out, etc.) of customer U. This allows for more granular disaster response control (DR) for each customer.

[0090] 3-3.Device information More detailed information regarding the equipment at customer U, such as the type of equipment, model number, installation location, and power consumption, may be stored in the database. This allows for more detailed control of each piece of equipment. Note that the types of equipment and specific examples shown in the embodiment are merely illustrative.

[0091] 3-4. Driving instructions in response to the disaster situation Operating instructions in response to disaster situations are not limited to the examples of embodiments. For example, operating policies in response to disaster situations are not limited to the three categories of power outage, resilience priority, and economy priority. At least some of these may be omitted, or other operating policies may be added. Furthermore, operating policies are not common to all types of equipment and may be defined for each type of equipment.

[0092] Specific operating instructions for the operating policy are not limited to the examples of the embodiments. Operating instructions may differ depending on the attributes of customer U, even for the same type of equipment under the same damage conditions, taking into account not only the damage situation but also other factors, such as the attributes of customer U.

[0093] 3-5. System Configuration In the above-described embodiment, an example was explained in which the information processing device 10 is a centralized system. However, it is also possible to configure it as a distributed system. For example, equipment control devices installed at each customer U (see Figure 1) can be configured to perform some or all of the functions of the information processing device 10. In this case, each equipment control device cooperates with each other to perform disaster response control (DR).

[0094] In this embodiment, an example in which an aggregator operates the power adjustment system 1 has been described, but the entity operating the power adjustment system 1 is not limited to an aggregator. Furthermore, the configuration of the power control system is not limited to the example in Figure 1. Some of the elements described in Figure 1 may be omitted, or other elements may be added.

[0095] 3-6. Other Variation Examples The various programs executed by processor 101 may be provided by downloading them over a network such as the Internet, or they may be provided recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium such as a DVD-ROM. Each processor may be, for example, a CPU, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

[0096] The block diagrams used in the description of the above embodiments show functional units. These functional blocks (components) are realized by any combination of at least one of hardware and software. Furthermore, the method of realizing each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block may be realized using one device that is physically or logically coupled, or it may be realized using two or more physically or logically separated devices that are directly or indirectly connected (for example, using wired or wireless connections). A functional block may also be realized by combining the above one device or the above multiple devices with software.

[0097] Functions include, but are not limited to, judgment, decision, determination, calculation, calculation, processing, derivation, investigation, search, confirmation, reception, transmission, output, access, resolution, selection, selection, establishment, comparison, assumption, expectation, assumption, broadcasting, notifying, communicating, forwarding, configuring, reconfiguring, allocating (mapping), and assigning. For example, a functional block (configuration part) that enables transmission is called a transmitting unit or transmitter. As mentioned above, the method of implementation is not particularly limited.

[0098] For example, the information processing device 10 in one embodiment of the present disclosure may function as a computer that performs the processing of the present disclosure.

[0099] Each aspect or embodiment described in this disclosure may be applied to at least one of the following systems: LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE-Advanced), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4G (4th generation mobile communication system), 5G (5th generation mobile communication system), FRA (Future Radio Access), NR (new Radio), W-CDMA (registered trademark), GSM (registered trademark), CDMA2000, UMB (Ultra Mobile Broadband), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.20, UWB (Ultra-WideBand), Bluetooth (registered trademark), and other appropriate systems, as well as next-generation systems extended based thereon. Furthermore, multiple systems may be applied in combination (for example, a combination of at least one of LTE and LTE-A with 5G).

[0100] The processing procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc., of each aspect or embodiment described in this disclosure may be reordered, provided they do not contradict each other. For example, the methods described in this disclosure present various step elements in an exemplary order and are not limited to the specific order presented.

[0101] Input and output information may be stored in a specific location (e.g., memory) or managed using a management table. Input and output information may be overwritten, updated, or appended to. Output information may be deleted. Input information may be sent to other devices.

[0102] The determination may be made by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), by a boolean value (true or false), or by a numerical comparison (for example, a comparison with a predetermined value).

[0103] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the intent and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, the descriptions in the present disclosure are illustrative and not intended to be restrictive in any way.

[0104] Software should be broadly interpreted to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc., whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or by any other name. Furthermore, software, instructions, information, etc., may be transmitted and received via a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using at least one of wired technologies (such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or digital subscriber line (DSL)) and wireless technologies (such as infrared or microwave), at least one of these wired and wireless technologies is included in the definition of a transmission medium.

[0105] The information, signals, etc., described herein may be represented using any of the following different technologies. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc., which may be referred to throughout the above description, may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof. Terms used herein and terms necessary for understanding this disclosure may be replaced with terms having the same or similar meaning.

[0106] Furthermore, the information, parameters, etc., described in this disclosure may be expressed using absolute values, relative values ​​from a predetermined value, or corresponding other information.

[0107] In this disclosure, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based solely on" unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based solely on" and "based at least on."

[0108] Any reference to elements using designations such as “First,” “Second,” etc., as used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used in this disclosure as a convenient way to distinguish between two or more elements. Accordingly, references to the First and Second elements do not imply that only two elements may be employed, or that the First element must precede the Second element in any way.

[0109] In the above-described configuration of each device, the term "part" may be replaced with "means," "circuit," "device," etc.

[0110] Where the terms “include,” “including,” and variations thereof are used in this disclosure, these terms are intended to be inclusive, as is the term “comprising.” Furthermore, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is not intended to mean exclusive OR.

[0111] In this disclosure, if articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, this disclosure may include the fact that the noun following these articles is plural.

[0112] In this disclosure, the term "A and B are different" may mean "A and B are different from each other." The term may also mean "A and B are each different from C." Terms such as "separate" and "combine" may be interpreted similarly to "different." [Explanation of Symbols]

[0113] 1...Power adjustment system, 2...Power generator, 3...Transmission and distribution company, 4...Electricity market, 5...Electricity retailer, 6...Wide-area organization, 7...Disaster information source, 10...Information processing device, 11...Storage unit, 12...Receiver unit, 13...Instruction unit, 14...Receiver unit, 15...Instruction unit, 19...Control unit, 101...Processor, 102...Memory, 103...Storage, 104...Communication device, 111...Disaster database, 112...Market database, 113...Customer database, 114...Power outage database

Claims

1. A first receiving unit that receives a DR request, A first instruction unit that instructs equipment within the customer to operate in response to the aforementioned DR request, A second receiving unit that receives disaster information in a certain area, A second instruction unit instructs equipment within a customer's premises belonging to the area related to the aforementioned disaster information to operate in a manner determined for each piece of equipment, independently of the aforementioned DR request. An information processing device having

2. The second instruction unit instructs the equipment within the customer to operate based on an operating policy defined according to the damage situation indicated by the disaster information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The second instruction unit instructs the equipment to operate based on an operating policy defined according to the type of equipment. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. If the aforementioned operating policy prioritizes the resilience of the customer, the second instruction unit instructs the equipment belonging to a specific group to operate at a high intensity as the aforementioned operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. If the aforementioned operating policy is to reduce the power consumption of the customer, the second instruction unit instructs the equipment belonging to a specific group to operate in a power-saving mode as the aforementioned operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

6. The second instruction unit instructs the operation of each of the multiple types of equipment based on a database that defines the operation during a disaster. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The equipment within the aforementioned customer includes at least one of the following: power supply equipment, power consumption equipment, and power management equipment. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The second instruction unit, taking into account the amount of electricity that is estimated to be lost based on the disaster information, instructs equipment within a customer in a different area from the area in to perform the operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

9. A computer, The steps include receiving a DR request and The steps include: instructing the equipment within the customer's premises to operate in response to the aforementioned DR request; Steps to receive disaster information in a certain area, The steps include: Instructing equipment within a customer's premises belonging to the area related to the aforementioned disaster information to operate in a manner determined for each piece of equipment, independently of the aforementioned DR request; An information processing method that performs the following.

10. In the step of instructing operation determined for each piece of equipment, operation is instructed to the equipment within the customer based on the damage situation indicated by the disaster information and the operating policy defined according to the type of equipment, If the aforementioned operating policy prioritizes the resilience of the customer, the equipment belonging to a specific group will be instructed to operate at a high intensity as described above. The information processing method according to claim 9.

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