Energy Storage Load Shaping for Utility-Controlled Peak Demand
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy management systems, such as HEMS, are imperfect and unpredictable, failing to provide nuanced load shaping that addresses locational or time-sensitive factors, leading to inefficiencies in electricity usage and increased peak demand on the electric grid, which results in higher costs for utilities and consumers.
Innovation Solution
An energy control and storage system that includes an energy storage device, an energy monitor, and a computing unit, operating in conjunction with on-site power generation, to modulate load at customer sites based on load shapes provided by utilities, optimizing power exchange with the electric distribution system to match desired load profiles and reduce peak demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If HEMS systems are used for energy management, then power usage monitoring is enabled, but load shaping precision and predictability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a utility-controlled load shape as an intermediary that mediates between HEMS monitoring capabilities and actual load control. The utility generates and transmits load shapes to customer premises, where they are applied to shape the load. This intermediary approach allows the utility to maintain precise control over load shaping while HEMS systems continue to provide monitoring functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where HEMS systems monitor actual power usage and compare it against target load shapes. This feedback loop enables continuous adjustment and improvement of load shaping precision. The system uses the monitoring data to refine load shape applications, thereby improving both measurement and manufacturing precision over time.
2Productivity
If utilities implement variable rates and incentives, then peak demand management is encouraged, but system complexity and unpredictability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of rate structure from variable to flat pricing. Instead of implementing complex variable rates with multiple tiers and incentives, the utility charges a flat rate that simplifies the pricing structure. This parameter change reduces system complexity while maintaining peak demand management effectiveness through load shape-based control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complexity of variable rate structures and incentive programs from the energy management system. By removing these complex elements and replacing them with flat pricing combined with load shape control, the system achieves peak demand management without the burden of variable rate complexity.
3Power
If consumers increase power usage during peak hours, then immediate power needs are met, but utility procurement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-shaping the load according to utility-defined load shapes before peak demand periods occur. Energy management systems adjust power consumption patterns in advance to align with load shapes that reduce peak demand. This preliminary load shaping prevents the need for expensive peak-hour power procurement while ensuring power availability is maintained through controlled distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
An energy control and storage system includes an energy monitor, a power controller, an energy storage device, and a computing unit. The energy monitor monitors power provided between an electric distribution system and a load. The power controller exchanges power with the energy monitor and receives power from a power generation system. The energy storage device stores energy received through the power controller. The computing unit receives a load shape from outside the energy control and storage system. The computing unit controls power exchanged between the energy control and storage system and the electric distribution system based on power indicated by the load shape that changes in response to varying conditions affecting the electric distribution system.