Distributed Energy Storage Grid Frequency Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage systems are inefficient in controlling energy use at electric load locations, requiring impractical quantities of storage mediums and often leading to energy storage system exhaustion due to over-reaction to demand set-points, and the increasing instability of the electrical power grid with the integration of unpredictable renewable energy sources like wind and solar generators.
Innovation Solution
Multiphase distributed energy storage systems operating semi-autonomously, connected to a cloud-based optimization engine, which monitor and control energy transfer based on real-time data to manage peak demand and grid frequency, using bidirectional power converters to optimize energy storage and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If simple timer-based control or single demand set-point methods are used to control energy storage systems, then the control method is simple and easy to implement, but the energy storage system requires impractical quantities of storage mediums and often leads to energy storage system exhaustion due to over-reaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback control system that continuously monitors actual power demand, compares it with forecasted demand, and adjusts charging/discharging rates dynamically. The controller receives real-time data from sensors monitoring power line conditions and modifies energy storage system operation accordingly, preventing over-reaction while optimizing storage utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary forecasting of power demand using historical data and predictive algorithms before peak demand events occur. This advance planning allows the energy storage system to be pre-charged or pre-discharged optimally, reducing the need for excessive storage capacity while ensuring adequate power availability during peak periods.
2Productivity
If larger quantities of energy storage mediums are deployed to offset demand peaks, then more energy arbitrage opportunities can be captured, but the system becomes more expensive and less economically practical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control strategies that continuously adapt charging and discharging rates based on real-time market conditions, forecasted demand, and actual power line frequency. This dynamic optimization maximizes energy arbitrage effectiveness by capturing peak demand opportunities precisely when they occur, eliminating the need for oversized storage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as charge/discharge rates, state-of-charge thresholds, and response timing based on varying market conditions and grid frequency requirements. This parameter optimization allows the same storage capacity to deliver higher productivity by operating at optimal points during different time periods and market conditions.
3Productivity
If energy storage systems react aggressively to demand set-points, then peak demand can be reduced more effectively, but the system frequently exhausts its energy storage availability
Solution Approach 1:
The closed-loop feedback system continuously monitors both power demand and energy storage state-of-charge levels. When storage availability drops below optimal thresholds, the feedback mechanism automatically reduces discharge rates or pauses discharge operations, preventing exhaustion while maintaining effective peak demand reduction through coordinated control of multiple distributed systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The predictive forecasting capability identifies upcoming peak demand events in advance, allowing the system to begin discharge operations at optimal times before storage exhaustion occurs. This preliminary action ensures sustained peak demand reduction effectiveness throughout the entire peak period without depleting storage availability prematurely.
4Ease of operation
If distributed energy storage systems operate independently without coordination, then each system can operate autonomously, but the overall effectiveness in stabilizing grid frequency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent distributed energy storage systems into a coordinated network that collectively responds to grid frequency conditions. Each system maintains its autonomous operation and local control capabilities, but they are combined through shared forecasting data and synchronized control signals to achieve enhanced overall effectiveness in stabilizing grid frequency compared to isolated operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention include control methods employed in multiphase distributed energy storage systems that are located behind utility meters typically located at, but not limited to, medium and large commercial and industrial locations. These distributed energy storage systems can operate semi-autonomously, and can be configured to develop energy control solutions for an electric load location based on various data inputs and communicate these energy control solutions to the distributed energy storage systems. In some embodiments, one or more distributed energy storage systems may be used to absorb and/or deliver power to the electric grid in an effort to provide assistance to or correct for power transmission and distribution problems found on the electric grid outside of an electric load location. In some cases, two or more distributed energy storage systems are used to form a controlled and coordinated response to the problems seen on the electric grid.