Distributed Energy Storage Control for Bidirectional Grid Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The legacy electric grid faces instability due to fluctuating consumer demand and intermittent renewable energy production, leading to inefficiencies, waste, and the need for costly peaker plants, with existing solutions failing to effectively manage bidirectional energy flow and stabilize the grid.
Innovation Solution
Deployment of distributed energy storage units with smart control systems that can store energy during low demand and release it during peak demand, allowing for fine-tuned management of energy supply and demand, and integrating with existing grid infrastructure to stabilize the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distributed energy storage units are deployed to manage bidirectional energy flow and stabilize the grid, then grid stability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the energy storage system into distributed units deployed at multiple locations within the electric grid. Each unit independently manages local energy storage and release operations, segmenting the complex task of grid stabilization into manageable distributed components rather than requiring a single centralized complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary between the energy storage units and the electric grid, managing bidirectional energy flow automatically. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of coordination and communication, allowing the storage units themselves to remain relatively simple while achieving sophisticated grid stabilization
2Loss of energy
If energy is stored during low demand periods and released during peak demand, then waste is reduced and peaker plant needs are minimized, but loss of time occurs during energy conversion and transmission
Solution Approach 1:
Energy is stored in advance during low-demand periods when electricity is abundant and inexpensive, preparing it for later use during peak demand. This preliminary action prevents energy waste by capturing excess energy that would otherwise be lost, and the advance preparation eliminates the need for costly peaker plants
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the temporal parameter of energy delivery, shifting energy from low-demand periods to peak-demand periods. By manipulating when energy is stored and released, the system optimizes both energy utilization efficiency and response time to match grid needs
3Productivity
If fine-tuned management of energy supply and demand is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors grid conditions, energy storage levels, and demand patterns, using this feedback to automatically adjust charging and discharging operations. This feedback mechanism enables fine-tuned energy management that improves efficiency without requiring complex manual intervention or overly complicated system architecture
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances grid stability, reduces waste, minimizes the need for peaker plants, and allows for efficient management of renewable energy, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage cell configured for receiving a first amount of electricity from the electric grid and storing the first amount of electricity; and further configured for releasing at least some of the stored electricity back to the electric grid
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to energy storage and supply management system. The system may include one or more of a control unit, which is in communication with the power grid, and an energy storage unit that stores power for use at a later time. The system may be used with traditional utility provided power as well as locally generated solar, wind, and any other types of power generation technology. In some embodiments, the energy storage unit and the control unit are housed in the same chassis. In other embodiments, the energy storage unit and the control unit are separate. In another embodiment, the energy storage unit is integrated into the chassis of an appliance itself.