Distributed Energy Storage Grid Stabilization via Cloud Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy storage systems are inefficient in controlling energy use at electric load locations, requiring impractical quantities of storage mediums and often running out of energy due to over-reaction to demand set-points, while the increasing variability of renewable energy sources causes power fluctuations and instability in the electrical grid, necessitating a more effective method to manage power flow and frequency balancing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiphase distributed energy storage systems that operate semi-autonomously but are in frequent contact with a cloud-based optimization engine, monitoring electricity use and discharging during peak demand to reduce grid power consumption, and coordinating with other systems to assist in grid stability and frequency balancing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If simple timer or single demand set-point control is used in energy storage systems, then the control method is simple and easy to implement, but the system requires impractical quantities of energy storage capacity and often runs out of energy due to over-reaction to demand set-points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback control system that continuously monitors actual demand, compares it with forecasted demand, and adjusts energy storage discharge/charge operations in real-time. This feedback mechanism prevents over-reaction to demand set-points by using actual measured values and predictive algorithms to optimize storage utilization, thereby reducing the total energy storage capacity needed while maintaining effective peak demand management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses load forecasting and predictive algorithms to determine future energy storage requirements in advance. By performing preliminary actions of charging during off-peak hours based on forecasted peak demand, the system optimizes energy storage utilization before peak periods occur, reducing the need for excessive storage capacity while ensuring adequate power availability during high-demand periods.
2Device complexity
If energy storage systems use simple timer or single demand set-point control, then the system structure is simple, but the system is inefficient in applying stored energy to control energy use at electric load locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static timer-based or single set-point control to dynamic, adaptive control that continuously adjusts energy storage operations based on real-time demand conditions and predictive algorithms. The system dynamically modifies discharge and charge rates, timing, and duration to match actual load patterns, significantly improving energy control efficiency while maintaining reasonable system complexity through modular architecture and automated control.
3Reliability
If the electrical grid relies on increasing renewable energy sources, then the grid becomes more sustainable, but power fluctuations and instability increase due to variability of renewable sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions energy storage systems as intermediary components between variable renewable energy sources and the electrical grid. These storage systems absorb excess power generated during low-demand periods and discharge during high-demand periods, acting as a buffer that smooths out fluctuations and stabilizes power flow. This intermediary function enables higher renewable energy penetration while maintaining grid stability and reliability.
4Ease of operation
If distributed energy storage systems operate autonomously without coordination, then each system can independently manage its own energy use, but the overall grid stability and frequency balancing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs distributed energy storage systems with dual functionality: they can operate independently to manage local energy use and costs, while simultaneously participating in coordinated grid services for frequency regulation and stability. This multi-functionality allows each system to serve both local and grid-wide needs, maintaining operational independence while contributing to overall grid reliability through aggregated coordinated control.
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.