In the bustling commercial districts of China, a silent revolution is underway, driven by the convergence of energy storage technology and demand-side management. At the forefront of this innovation is Wenhao Gao, a researcher from the Dezhou Power Supply Company, State Grid Shandong Electric Power Company. Gao’s recent study, published in Zhongguo dianli (China Electric Power), delves into the optimal configuration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in commercial areas, leveraging the virtual energy storage (VES) characteristics of air conditioning loads.
The study focuses on the time decoupling characteristics of air conditioning loads, which can be managed to create a virtual energy storage effect. This means that by adjusting the timing of air conditioning usage within a comfortable temperature range, the system can effectively store and release energy, mimicking the behavior of a physical energy storage system.
Gao explains, “The key is to understand that air conditioning loads in commercial buildings can be shifted in time without compromising comfort. This flexibility allows us to create a virtual energy storage system that can be optimized alongside traditional BESS.”
The research establishes a bi-level optimal configuration model for BESS, considering seasonal and climatic differences, as well as the life cycle cost. This model is solved using the Gurobi solver combined with a modified differential evolution (MDE) algorithm, ensuring that the configuration is both economically efficient and technically feasible.
One of the most compelling findings is the significant economic benefits that can be achieved by integrating VES into the BESS configuration. Gao notes, “Our results show that the participation of VES can effectively improve the economic efficiency of BESS configuration in commercial areas. This means lower costs and higher returns on investment for businesses and utilities alike.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By optimizing the configuration of BESS and leveraging VES, commercial areas can achieve higher levels of energy efficiency, reduce peak demand, and enhance the integration of renewable energy sources like photovoltaic (PV) power. This not only benefits the environment but also creates a more stable and resilient power grid.
The study also highlights the importance of considering seasonal and climatic differences, which can significantly impact the performance of both PV systems and air conditioning loads. This holistic approach ensures that the energy storage system is robust and adaptable to varying conditions, making it a practical solution for real-world applications.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the integration of VES and BESS represents a paradigm shift in how we manage and utilize energy. Gao’s work provides a roadmap for future developments, demonstrating the potential for significant economic and environmental benefits. With the growing demand for energy efficiency and sustainability, this research is poised to shape the future of energy management in commercial areas.
The study was published in Zhongguo dianli, which translates to China Electric Power, a leading journal in the field of electrical engineering and power systems.