Distributed Energy Storage Control for Peak Load Shifting
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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 pricing models and control mechanisms failing to effectively manage these challenges.
Innovation Solution
Deployment of distributed energy storage units with smart control systems that can store energy during low demand and release it during peak times, allowing for fine-tuned management of energy flow across the grid, thereby stabilizing the grid and reducing the reliance on peaker plants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distributed energy storage units with smart control systems are deployed, then grid stability and energy flow management are improved, but device complexity and infrastructure costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the energy storage functionality into distributed units deployed at multiple locations across the grid, with each unit containing its own control system. This segmentation allows localized energy management while maintaining overall grid stability, addressing the contradiction by improving reliability through distributed architecture rather than centralized complex systems
Solution Approach 2:
Energy is stored in advance during periods of low demand or excess renewable generation, before peak demand periods occur. The smart control systems predict demand patterns and pre-position energy resources, improving grid stability proactively rather than reacting to instability, thus enhancing reliability without requiring overly complex real-time control mechanisms
2Loss of energy
If energy is stored during low demand periods and released during peak times, then waste is reduced and peaker plant reliance decreases, but loss of time in energy conversion and distribution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous energy storage and retrieval operations, with distributed units constantly charging during low-demand periods and discharging during peak periods. This continuous operation minimizes energy waste by keeping storage systems actively engaged rather than idle, while the distributed nature reduces time losses through localized energy delivery
Solution Approach 2:
Distributed energy storage units act as intermediary elements between renewable generation sources and consumer loads. These intermediaries buffer the time mismatch between intermittent renewable production and variable demand, reducing energy waste from curtailment while minimizing time losses through strategic positioning near consumption points
3Productivity
If fine-tuned management of energy flow is implemented, then productivity and efficiency are improved, but device complexity and control system requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each distributed energy storage unit incorporates embedded smart control systems that autonomously manage their own charging, discharging, and grid interaction based on local conditions and grid signals. This self-service capability improves energy management efficiency at each node without requiring complex centralized control, as each unit independently optimizes its operations
Solution Approach 2:
The smart control systems continuously monitor grid conditions, energy prices, demand patterns, and storage state, using this feedback to dynamically adjust charging and discharging decisions. This feedback-driven approach improves energy management productivity by responding to real-time conditions, while keeping control complexity manageable through rule-based and predictive algorithms rather than overly complex systems
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 solution enables the grid to manage fluctuations in demand and energy production more efficiently, reducing waste and the need for peaker plants, while minimizing strain on infrastructure and lowering costs by allowing for precise energy supply matching with demand.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage cell, configured for receiving and storing the electricity received from the electric grid and 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.