Grid-Connected Heat Pump with Energy Storage for Peak Load Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The electrification of heating systems, particularly through heat pumps, increases peak demand on the electric grid, especially in regions transitioning from natural gas, and existing energy storage solutions face inefficiencies and high costs, necessitating a more effective and cost-efficient method to manage peak loads.
Innovation Solution
A system integrating a heat pump, energy storage device, and remote computing system to dynamically control power sources, allowing the heat pump to be powered by either an external power source or the energy storage device, or both, based on the energy storage's state of charge and grid conditions, optimizing energy use and reducing peak demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If heat pumps replace natural gas equipment for space and water heating, then emissions are reduced and energy efficiency is improved, but peak load on the electric grid increases and shifts to winter
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by charging the energy storage device during off-peak hours (when electricity rates are lower and grid load is reduced) and then discharging it during peak demand periods. This anticipatory charging strategy reduces peak load on the grid while maintaining heat pump operation during high-demand periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors the state of charge of the energy storage device and receives electricity rate information from the utility provider, adjusting the operation of the heat pump and charging/discharging strategy accordingly. This feedback mechanism optimizes the balance between reducing peak load and maintaining heating/cooling needs.
2Ease of manufacture
If utility-scale energy storage is used to address peak loads, then economies of scale are achieved with reduced installation cost per unit, but line loss increases when delivering energy over transmission and distribution systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the energy storage function by implementing a distributed energy storage device at the customer premises rather than relying solely on centralized utility-scale storage. This segmentation allows the storage to be located close to the load, eliminating transmission and distribution line losses while still achieving cost effectiveness through the use of standardized, mass-producible battery modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality by placing the energy storage device locally at the customer site, close to the heat pump and other electrical loads. This local placement eliminates the need for long-distance energy transmission, thereby avoiding line losses associated with utility-scale storage while maintaining the economic benefits of standardized storage technology.
3Loss of energy
If standalone on-site energy storage is used for self-consumption, then transmission and distribution line loss is bypassed with higher efficiency, but installation cost per unit of storage capacity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is designed with multi-functionality, serving not only for self-consumption and peak load reduction but also for providing backup power, supporting ancillary grid services, and enabling participation in demand response programs. This universal application justifies the higher per-unit installation cost by delivering multiple value propositions beyond simple energy storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes the size and capacity of the energy storage device based on specific customer needs, load profiles, and local electricity rates. By adjusting the storage capacity parameter to match actual demand patterns and by selecting appropriate battery chemistry and configuration, the system achieves cost-effectiveness tailored to each installation while maintaining the efficiency benefits of on-site storage.
4Adaptability or versatility
If inverters are used to convert power for transmission system or building wiring, then compatibility with AC loads is achieved, but equipment cost and power conversion loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intelligent intermediary between the energy storage device and the heat pump, managing power flow and coordination without requiring expensive bidirectional inverters. By using the controller to orchestrate direct DC coupling and manage charging/discharging timing, the system achieves AC compatibility through intelligent control rather than through expensive power conversion hardware.
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 system effectively shifts heating loads from peak to off-peak hours, reducing grid strain, minimizing installation costs, and enhancing energy efficiency by bypassing transmission losses and inverter costs, thus optimizing energy utilization and reducing consumer electricity rates.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device configured to provide power to the heat pump
Implementation Method 2
a thermal pump system, comprising: a heat pump
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A method is provided. The method comprises: obtaining a current state of charge of an energy storage device of a thermal pump system, wherein the thermal pump system comprises a heat pump; determining one or more operating modes for the thermal pump system based on the current state of charge of the energy storage device; and controlling the thermal pump system based on the one or more operating modes, wherein controlling the thermal pump system comprises electrically connecting the energy storage device and/or an external power source to the heat pump such that the energy storage device and/or the external power source provide power to the heat pump.