Multi Utility Energy Control System for Hybrid Grid Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy supply control methods are limited in efficiently managing energy demand across multiple energy utilities and grids, particularly in buildings that use hybrid energy systems, as they do not actively coordinate energy transitions between different utility grids and primarily focus on electricity grids, neglecting the potential of thermal energy sources and the need for flexible grid control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for Multi Utility Energy Control (MUEC) that balances energy supply from multiple energy utilities or grids by considering demand request signals, using a functional entity to adjust energy provision complementarily across different energy forms and systems, such as electrical and gas power, to ensure reliable and efficient energy distribution, taking into account constraints, forecasted behavior, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If Demand-Response technologies are applied to electricity grids, then energy demand can be reduced during peak periods, but the system cannot actively coordinate energy transitions between multiple utility grids
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to handle multiple energy utilities and grids simultaneously, not just electricity grids. It can process demand request signals from different utility types (electricity, gas, thermal) and coordinate their operations through a unified control architecture that balances energy supply across all connected grids based on their specific characteristics and current operational states
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the control approach by utility type, recognizing that different energy utilities have different operational characteristics and response behaviors. Each utility grid is managed with tailored control strategies while maintaining overall coordination through the functional entity that balances energy supply across all grids complementarily
2Adaptability or versatility
If buildings are connected to multiple energy utilities, then energy supply flexibility increases, but active coordination between the utilities is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
A functional entity acts as an intermediary between multiple energy utilities and the building's energy systems. This intermediary receives demand request signals from different utilities, processes them according to utility-specific characteristics, and coordinates the responses to achieve balanced energy supply without requiring complex direct interactions between all utility systems
Solution Approach 2:
The control system provides universal functionality by handling multiple utility types through a single integrated platform that can process different signal types, apply utility-specific control strategies, and maintain overall energy balance across all connected grids
3Productivity
If thermal energy sources are integrated, then energy consumption optimization improves, but control beyond electricity grids becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The system extends its control scope to include thermal energy sources alongside electricity grids, creating a multi-utility control platform that can optimize energy consumption across different energy forms. It handles thermal energy integration by processing demand signals from thermal utilities and coordinating their operation with electrical systems through utility-specific control strategies
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling energy supply to a client, wherein the client is connected to at least two energy utilities and/or energy grids for receiving energy for operating its energy systems, includes providing a demand request signal by at least one operation unit and/or by at least one of the at least two energy utilities and/or energy grids for requesting a demand modification with regard to at least one energy system of the client. A functional entity balances the energy supply to the client, so that a supply of energy from the at least two energy utilities or energy grids to the client is provided under consideration of the demand request signal or signals in a complementary way.