HVAC Setpoint Recovery Scheduling for Time-of-Day Utility Pricing
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems lack effective methods to adjust energy consumption during peak or anticipated peak demand periods in response to varying utility rates, which can lead to increased energy costs and inefficient energy use.
Innovation Solution
An HVAC controller that integrates a nominal schedule with a utility pricing schedule, enabling the establishment of an enhanced pricing setpoint recovery schedule to adjust HVAC operations based on utility pricing changes, thereby optimizing energy usage during peak periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the HVAC controller activates HVAC units early to meet scheduled setpoint changes (recovery), then the comfort level is maintained, but energy consumption increases during peak demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the recovery schedule based on real-time utility pricing signals. When dynamic pricing indicates peak demand periods, the controller modifies recovery timing to avoid these periods, thereby reducing energy consumption while still meeting comfort requirements when pricing is favorable
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes operational parameters (HVAC unit activation times, setpoint temperatures) in response to utility pricing parameters. By shifting recovery operations to off-peak periods or adjusting setpoints during peak periods, the system optimizes the balance between comfort maintenance and energy cost reduction
2Use of energy by moving object
If the HVAC controller delays recovery to avoid peak demand periods, then energy consumption is reduced, but the comfort level may not be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs recovery actions in advance during off-peak periods when utility pricing is favorable. By completing temperature adjustments before peak demand periods begin, the system ensures comfort levels are maintained without incurring high energy costs during peak periods
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors both utility pricing signals and indoor temperature conditions. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adjust recovery timing dynamically, ensuring that comfort requirements are met while optimizing energy consumption based on real-time pricing conditions
3Ease of operation
If the HVAC controller follows a fixed programmable schedule, then operational simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying utility rates is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The controller integrates multiple functions: it maintains the traditional programmable schedule for simplicity while simultaneously incorporating dynamic pricing response capabilities. This multi-functionality allows the system to operate in both fixed and adaptive modes, providing ease of use while enabling optimization based on utility rates
Data Source
AI summary
An HVAC controller with setpoint recovery with utility time of day pricing. In one illustrative embodiment, the HVAC controller may include a nominal programmable schedule and a utility pricing schedule. The utility pricing schedule may correspond to scheduled price changes of a utility, including one or more enhanced pricing time periods each having corresponding one or more enhanced pricing time period setpoints. The HVAC controller may establish or modify an enhanced pricing setpoint recovery schedule based at least in part upon the nominal schedule and the utility pricing schedule, and may control one or more HVAC units in accordance with the setpoint recovery schedule. In some instances, the HVAC controller may identify recovery opportunities based at least in part upon the nominal schedule and the utility pricing schedule.