JP7792297B2 - Power control device, program, and power control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a power control device, a program, and a power control method.

Patent Document 1 below discloses a charge control system equipped with a charging circuit. The charging circuit in this charge control system operates in multiple operating modes, including a first charging mode (normal charging mode) and a second charging mode (rapid charging mode) that accumulates a predetermined amount of charge in a storage battery in a shorter time than in the first charging mode. This allows the charging time for an electric vehicle to be changed depending on the lifestyle pattern of the electric vehicle owner, the urgency of use of the electric vehicle, etc.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-118247

In the charging control system of Patent Document 1, the control unit can determine the operating mode of the charging circuit by taking into account operation input to the operation unit as well as time periods when electricity unit prices are low. By determining the operating mode in this way, it is believed that the amount of electricity purchased (i.e., electricity purchasing costs) can be reduced.

However, depending on the owner's lifestyle, it is expected that there will be days when an electric vehicle is not used. Furthermore, even when an electric vehicle is used, the amount of charging required will vary depending on the distance traveled. If the amount of charging the electric vehicle is greater than the amount of electricity required by the electric vehicle, the charged electricity cannot be used in the building while the electric vehicle is in use, and this may result in the need to purchase extra electricity.

For this reason, it is desirable to control the amount of charge to the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle in a balanced manner, depending on the owner's lifestyle pattern.

In consideration of the above, the present invention aims to provide a power control device that can control the amount of charging to stationary storage batteries and electric vehicles in a balanced manner, thereby reducing the amount of electricity purchased.

The power control device of the first aspect includes a usage schedule information acquisition unit that acquires usage schedule information for electric vehicles on a reference date, a surplus power prediction unit that predicts the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date, and a control unit that controls charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicles and purchasing of grid power on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage schedule information and the predicted amount of surplus power.

In the power control device of the first aspect, the usage schedule information acquisition unit acquires usage schedule information for the electric vehicle on the reference date. This makes it possible to determine whether or not the electric vehicle needs to be charged.

In addition, in this power control device, the surplus power prediction unit predicts the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date. This makes it possible to determine whether or not grid power needs to be purchased.

Furthermore, in this power control device, the control unit controls charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle, as well as the purchase of grid power.

Specifically, for example, if there is a "large" amount of surplus electricity in the power supply system on the day before the reference date, the electricity to be used on the reference date can be used to charge stationary storage batteries and electric vehicles without purchasing electricity on the day before the reference date. Then, on the reference date, the electricity stored in stationary storage batteries and electric vehicles can be used. This reduces the amount of electricity purchased from the grid.

Furthermore, if the amount of surplus electricity in the power supply system is "low" on the day before the reference date, for example, the control unit determines the amount of charge to be applied to the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle depending on whether charging of the electric vehicle is required, and purchases electricity as needed. This ensures the amount of electricity required by the electric vehicle while preventing excessive charging and reducing the amount of electricity purchased from the grid.

Furthermore, if the amount of surplus electricity is zero on the day before the reference date, for example, the amount of electricity to be charged to the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle is determined depending on whether or not charging of the electric vehicle is required, and the necessary amount of electricity is purchased.

In this way, the power control device of the first aspect can control the amount of charging to the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle in a balanced manner, thereby reducing the amount of electricity purchased.

A second aspect of the power control device is the power control device described in the first aspect, wherein the surplus power prediction unit predicts the surplus power using the amount of power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device predicted on the day before the reference date and the amount of power consumption by the building predicted on the day before the reference date.

In the second aspect of the power control device, the amount of surplus power is predicted using the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device predicted on the day before the reference date and the amount of power consumption by the building predicted on the day before the reference date.

The amount of power generated by a solar power generation system depends on factors such as the season and the amount of sunlight. Furthermore, the amount of power consumed by a building depends on factors such as the temperature and the number of people at home. By predicting surplus power from the predicted values of these unstable indicators, prediction accuracy can be improved compared to predicting surplus power from only the predicted values of either the amount of power generated by a solar power generation system or the amount of power consumed by a building.

For example, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system is high and the building's power consumption is low, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be greater than a predetermined first threshold. Also, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system is high and the building's power consumption is high, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be less than the first threshold and greater than a predetermined second threshold. Furthermore, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system is low and the building's power consumption is high, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be less than the second threshold.

If the accuracy of surplus power predictions can be improved in this way, the accuracy of predictions regarding the need for power purchases and the necessary amount of power purchases can also be improved, making it possible to curb unnecessary power purchases.

A third aspect of the power control device is the power control device described in the first aspect, wherein the control unit purchases power during the nighttime two days before the reference date when the amount of surplus power is predicted to be equal to or less than a predetermined value and there is a planned use of power.

In the third aspect of the power control device, if the amount of surplus power on the day before the reference date is predicted to be below a predetermined value and there are plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date, power purchases are carried out during the nighttime two days before the reference date.

If the amount of surplus energy on the day before the reference date is predicted to be below a specified value and electric vehicles are scheduled to be used on the reference date, the surplus energy on the day before the reference date alone may not be enough to charge all of the electric vehicles and the building to be used on the reference date. Furthermore, even if electricity is purchased during the nighttime on the day before the reference date, it may not be enough.

The control unit therefore purchases electricity during the night two days before the reference date. This reduces electricity purchases during the day. Furthermore, by purchasing electricity during the night two days before the reference date and adjusting the amount of electricity purchased during the night of the previous day, power shortages can be reduced and excessive electricity purchases can also be reduced.

The program of the fourth aspect is a program for causing a computer to execute the following steps: a usage schedule information acquisition step for acquiring usage schedule information for electric vehicles on a reference date; a surplus energy amount prediction step for predicting the amount of surplus energy in the power supply system on the day before the reference date; and a control step for controlling charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicles on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage schedule information and the predicted amount of surplus energy.

The fifth aspect of the power control method includes a usage schedule information acquisition step for acquiring usage schedule information for electric vehicles on a reference date, a surplus power prediction step for predicting the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date, and a control step for controlling charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicles on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage schedule information and the predicted amount of surplus power.

This invention makes it possible to control the amount of electricity charged to stationary storage batteries and electric vehicles in a balanced manner, thereby reducing the amount of electricity purchased.

1 is a block diagram showing an overall view of a power supply system to which a power control device according to an embodiment is applied; 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a power control device according to an embodiment; 1 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of a power control device according to an embodiment; FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation amount database according to an embodiment; FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power consumption amount database; and FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control information database. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a power control process according to the embodiment.

The following describes a power control device, program, and power control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to the drawings. Components indicated with the same reference numerals in each drawing are the same components. However, unless otherwise specified in the specification, each component is not limited to one, and multiple components may exist.

Furthermore, explanations of overlapping components and symbols may be omitted in each drawing. Note that this disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and may be implemented with appropriate modifications, such as omitting components or replacing them with different components, within the scope of the purpose of this disclosure.

<Power supply system>
(overview)
1 shows the overall configuration of a power supply system 80 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power supply system 80 is a system for controlling the power supply to a building 100 equipped with a storage battery 40 and an electric vehicle 110A.

The power supply system 80 is a system designed to reduce the amount of electricity purchased by controlling the amount of charge to the storage battery 40 and the electric vehicle 110A in a balanced manner. More specifically, the power supply system 80 controls the amount of charge to the storage battery 40 and the electric vehicle 110A at least on the day before the reference date, based on whether or not the electric vehicle 110A is being used on the reference date, thereby reducing the amount of electricity purchased.

The power supply system 80 includes a control device 10 and a conversion device 20. The power supply system 80 also includes a solar power generation device 30, a storage battery 40, a distribution board 50, and a connector 60. The distribution board 50 is connected to the power grid 70 and a load 90 within the building 100. The connector 60 can be connected to the storage battery 112A provided in the electric vehicle 110A.

(building)
In this specification, the building 100 to which the power supply system 80 is applied is described as a detached house, but the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. The power supply system 80 can be applied to, for example, detached houses as well as apartment buildings, and non-residential facilities such as office buildings, commercial facilities, hospitals, and libraries.

(Solar power generation equipment)
The photovoltaic power generation device 30 is provided on the roof surface of the building 100 and includes solar cells that receive sunlight and generate electricity. The photovoltaic power generation device 30 is a power source whose generated power varies over time depending on the season, sunlight conditions, etc. The photovoltaic power generation device 30 is connected to the conversion device 20, and the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device 30 is supplied to the conversion device 20. Information about the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device 30 (e.g., the amount of power generated) is transmitted to the control device 10 and stored in a power generation amount database 13B, which will be described later.

(storage battery)
The storage battery 40 is a stationary storage battery provided in the building 100. The storage battery 40 includes a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. The storage battery 40 is connected to the conversion device 20 and is charged by power supplied from the conversion device 20. The storage battery 40 can also supply power to the conversion device 20 by discharging.

(Distribution board)
The distribution board 50 distributes AC power from the power system 70 to loads 90, which are electrical devices within the building 100. The distribution board 50 is supplied with AC power from the power system 70. The loads 90 are connected to branch electric circuits connected to the distribution board 50. The branch electric circuits are supplied with AC power from the distribution board 50, and the loads 90 operate on the AC power supplied to the branch electric circuits. The distribution board 50 is also connected to the conversion device 20, and can supply AC power to the conversion device 20.

(connector)
The connector 60 is a connection terminal that is detachably connected to a charging connector of the electric vehicle 110A. The electric vehicle 110A has a built-in storage battery 112A and runs using electrical energy stored in the storage battery 112A. The connector 60 is connected to the conversion device 20, and the storage battery 112A is charged with power supplied from the conversion device 20. The storage battery 112A can also supply power to the conversion device 20 by discharging.

The electric vehicle 110A can be an electric vehicle that runs on the output of an electric motor, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle that runs on a combination of engine output and electric motor output.

(Conversion device)
The operation of the conversion device 20 is controlled by the control device 10. The conversion device 20 is connected to a solar power generation device 30. The conversion device 20 can boost the DC voltage from the solar power generation device 30.

The conversion device 20 can convert the DC power output by the storage battery 40 into DC power of a predetermined magnitude. The conversion device 20 can also convert DC power into DC power of a predetermined magnitude and output the converted DC power to the storage battery 40.

The conversion device 20 can convert the DC power output by the storage battery 112A into DC power of a predetermined magnitude. The conversion device 20 can also convert DC power into DC power of a predetermined magnitude and output the converted DC power to the storage battery 112A.

The conversion device 20 can convert DC voltage to AC voltage, or AC voltage to DC voltage, between the power grid 70 and the "photovoltaic power generation device 30, storage battery 40, and storage battery 112A." As a result, the conversion device 20 has the function of converting DC power from the "photovoltaic power generation device 30, storage battery 40, and storage battery 112A" into AC power and outputting it to the "load 90 and power grid 70," and the function of converting AC power from the power grid 70 into DC power and outputting it to the "storage battery 40 and storage battery 112A."

<Control device>
The control device 10, which is an example of a power control device in the present invention, is a device that performs power management and control in a building 100, and is also called, for example, a HEMS (Home Energy Management System).

The control device 10 can charge the storage battery 40 or storage battery 112A with the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 via the conversion device 20. Alternatively, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 can be supplied to the load 90 or power grid 70 connected to the distribution board 50 via the conversion device 20.

The control device 10 can also charge the storage battery 40 and the storage battery 112A with power supplied from the power grid 70 via the conversion device 20. Furthermore, the control device 10 can control the order and amount of charging of the storage battery 40 and the storage battery 112A.

The control device 10 can also supply the power stored in the storage battery 40 to a load 90 connected to the distribution board 50 via the conversion device 20. The control device 10 can also supply the power stored in the storage battery 112A to a load 90 connected to the distribution board 50 or to the power grid 70 via the conversion device 20.

[Electrical configuration of the control device]
2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the control device 10. The control device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit: processor) 11, a memory 12 serving as a temporary storage area, a non-volatile storage unit 13, an input unit 14 such as a keyboard and mouse, a display unit 15 such as a liquid crystal display, a medium read/write device (R/W) 16, a communication interface (I/F) unit 18, and an external I/F unit 19. The CPU 11, memory 12, storage unit 13, input unit 14, display unit 15, medium read/write device 16, communication I/F unit 18, and external I/F unit 19 are connected to one another via a bus B1. The medium read/write device 16 reads information written in a recording medium 17 and writes information to the recording medium 17.

(Storage part)
The storage unit 13 is realized by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flash memory, or the like. A power control program 13A is stored in the storage unit 13 as a storage medium. The power control program 13A is stored in the storage unit 13 when a recording medium 17 on which the power control program 13A is written is set in the medium reading and writing device 16 and the medium reading and writing device 16 reads the power control program 13A from the recording medium 17. The CPU 11 reads the power control program 13A from the storage unit 13, expands it in the memory 12, and sequentially executes the processes contained in the power control program 13A.

The memory unit 13 stores a power generation amount database 13B, a power consumption amount database 13C, and a control information database 13D. The power generation amount database 13B, the power consumption amount database 13C, and the control information database 13D will be described in detail below.

(Input section)
The user performs operations to start and end the power control program 13A on the input unit 14. The user is, for example, a resident of the building 100 and a manager of the power supply system 80.

The user also inputs "planned use information" for the electric vehicle 110A into the input unit 14. Furthermore, the user also inputs "information on the number of people present" on a specific date into the input unit 14. The "planned use information" input via the input unit 14 can be stored in a specific area in the memory unit 13. Furthermore, the "information on the number of people present" is stored in the power consumption database 13C in the memory unit 13 (see Figure 4 (B)).

The "planned use information" and "number of people at home information" entered by the user may be entered via the user's mobile device, such as a smartphone. They may also be entered via a computer other than the control device 10. Personal information entered via the user's mobile device or a computer other than the control device 10 is sent to the control device 10.

(Display)
The display unit 15 displays information for starting and ending the power control program 13A, and information for inputting "scheduled use information" and "number of people at home information." The display unit 15 may also have a touch panel interface for the user to input the "scheduled use information" and "number of people at home information." In other words, the display unit 15 and the input unit 14 may be formed integrally using a touch panel.

[Functional configuration of the control device]
Next, the functional configuration of the control device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the control device 10 includes a usage schedule information acquisition unit 11A, a surplus energy prediction unit 11B, a connection detection unit 11C, and a control unit 11D. The CPU 11 of the control device 10 executes a power control program 13A to function as the usage schedule information acquisition unit 11A, the surplus energy prediction unit 11B, the connection detection unit 11C, and the control unit 11D.

(Usage schedule information acquisition unit)
The usage schedule information acquisition unit 11A acquires usage schedule information of the electric vehicle 110A on a reference date. The usage schedule information acquisition unit 11A acquires the usage schedule information in response to the user inputting the usage schedule information into the input unit 14.

"Planned use information" is information that includes at least information on whether or not the user plans to use the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date. This "planned use information" is information on whether or not the user plans to use the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, and is acquired by the planned use information acquisition unit 11A when the user inputs the planned date of use of the electric vehicle 110A into the input unit 14.

It is also preferable that the "planned use information" includes mileage information. "Mileage information" is information indicating the planned distance to be traveled. When the user plans to use the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, the mileage information is acquired by the planned use information acquisition unit 11A by inputting the planned distance to be traveled.

The planned driving distance does not necessarily have to be entered as a numerical value; for example, the destination may be entered. For example, if the destination is entered, the CPU 11 can obtain the necessary information via the communication I/F unit 18 and calculate an approximate round-trip distance from the building 100 to the destination.

Note that the "usage status information" and "mileage information" do not necessarily have to be input by the user. For example, the control device 10 can obtain the past usage dates and mileage of the electric vehicle 110A by communicating with a communication device provided in the electric vehicle 110A via the communication I/F unit 18.

The control device 10 can then generate a "usage history database (not shown)" by storing past usage dates and mileage in the memory unit 13. The usage schedule information acquisition unit 11A may predict "usage presence/absence information" and "mileage information" for the reference date from this usage history database.

Furthermore, if the planned use information is stored in the memory unit 13, the planned use information acquisition unit 11A may read and acquire the planned use information from the memory unit 13.

(Excess power prediction unit)
The surplus power prediction unit 11B acquires various information from the input unit 14, communication I/F unit 18 and memory unit 13 of the control device 10, and predicts the amount of surplus power in the power supply system 80 on the day before the reference date.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B acquires "weather information" for the day before the reference date via the communication I/F unit 18. The "weather information" includes the amount of solar radiation [kWh/ ^m2 /day] and the average temperature [°C] for the day expected in the area where the building 100 is located.

In addition, the surplus energy prediction unit 11B acquires "number of people at home information" in response to the user inputting the number of people at home on the day before the reference date into the input unit 14.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B then reads the power generation amount database 13B stored in the memory unit 13, and uses the information stored in this power generation amount database 13B and the weather information to predict the "power generation amount" of the solar power generation device 30 on the day before the reference date. The power generation amount database 13B will be described later.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B also reads out the energy consumption database 13C stored in the memory unit 13, and uses the information stored in this energy consumption database 13C and the "number of people at home information" to predict the "energy consumption" of the building 100 on the day before the reference date. The energy consumption database 13C will be described later.

Furthermore, the surplus energy prediction unit 11B predicts the "surplus energy" on the day before the reference date using the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 predicted on the day before the reference date and the amount of power consumed by the building 100 predicted on the day before the reference date.

Specifically, the surplus energy prediction unit 11B predicts the amount of surplus energy on the day before the reference date by calculating the difference between the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 predicted on the day before the reference date and the amount of power consumed by the building 100 predicted on the day before the reference date.

The "surplus energy on the day before the reference date" is the amount of energy generated by the solar power generation device 30 minus the energy demand of the building 100 on the day before the reference date, and is therefore the amount of energy that can be carried over to the reference date. Note that the calculation of this surplus energy may also include the amount of energy carried over from the day before the reference date and the amount of energy purchased during the day on the day before the reference date.

(Connection detection unit)
The connection detection unit 11C acquires “connection information” indicating whether the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A in response to the user connecting and disconnecting the connector 60 to the electric vehicle 110A. Whether the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A is stored in a predetermined area of the storage unit 30.

(Control unit)
The control unit 11D controls the conversion device 20 based on the "planned usage information" acquired by the planned usage information acquisition unit 11A and the "surplus energy amount" predicted by the surplus energy amount prediction unit 11B, and charges the storage battery 40 and the electric vehicle 110A and purchases electricity from the power grid 70 on the day before the reference date.

Specifically, the control unit 11D reads the control information database 13D stored in the memory unit 13, and executes the power control program 13A, which will be described later, using the information stored in this control information database 13D, the "planned usage information," and the "surplus power amount."

(Power generation database)
4A shows an example of the power generation amount database 13B. In the power generation amount database 13B, the date, the amount of solar radiation (actual value) [kWh/ ^m2 /day], the loss coefficient (assumed value) [%], and the amount of power generation (actual value) [kWh] are recorded in association with each other.

The date is a past date. The amount of solar radiation is the actual amount of solar radiation in a day in the area where the building 100 is located. This actual value is obtained via the communication I/F unit 18. The loss coefficient is a value that indicates the impact that factors such as deterioration over time and maintenance frequency of the solar power generation device 30 have on power generation performance, and is input in advance as an assumed value. This loss coefficient can also be corrected as appropriate. The amount of power generated is the actual amount of power generated in a day obtained from the solar power generation device 30.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B can read actual values of power generation amount corresponding to past seasons, dates, solar radiation amounts, and loss coefficients from this power generation amount database 13B. The surplus energy prediction unit 11B then predicts the "power generation amount" of the solar power generation device 30 on the day before the reference date based on the "weather information" for the day before the reference date obtained via the communication I/F unit 18. The calculation formula for predicting this power generation amount is stored in a specified area of the memory unit 13.

(Electricity consumption database)
4B shows an example of the power consumption database 13C. The power consumption database 13C stores the date, temperature (actual value) [kWh/ ^m2 /day], the number of people at home (actual value) [people], and power consumption (actual value) [kWh] in association with each other.

The date is a past date. The temperature is the actual temperature (daily average temperature) in the area where the building 100 is located. This actual value is acquired via the communication I/F unit 18. The number of people at home is a value indicating the number of people at home in the building 100, and is input by the user via the input unit 14. Note that the number of people at home may be estimated and stored by the control unit 11D based on the number of times the bathroom or toilet is used, etc. The power consumption is the actual value of the amount of power consumed in one day by users at home in the building 100.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B can read actual values of energy consumption according to past seasons, dates (which may include days of the week), and the number of people at home from the energy consumption database 13C. The surplus energy prediction unit 11B then predicts the energy consumption of the building 100 on the day before the reference date based on the "weather information" for the day before the reference date obtained via the communication I/F unit 18 and the "information on the number of people at home" for the day before the reference date obtained via the input unit 14. The calculation formula for predicting this energy consumption is stored in a specified area of the memory unit 13.

The surplus energy prediction unit 11B also reads out the energy consumption database 13C stored in the memory unit 13, and uses the information stored in this energy consumption database 13C and the "number of people at home information" to predict the "energy consumption" of the building 100 on the day before the reference date.

(Control information database)
4C shows an example of the control information database 13D. In the control information database 13D, the control contents that the control unit 11D performs on the conversion device 20 are classified into 12 types of modes and stored.

Each mode is classified as follows based on "connection information" indicating whether the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A, "planned use information" indicating whether the user plans to use the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, and the "surplus energy amount" predicted by the surplus energy amount prediction unit 11B on the day before the reference date:

Mode 1
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Planned use of electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Greater than the specified threshold X1 [kWh].

Mode 1 is a control mode that is assumed when sufficient power generation by the solar power generation device 30 is expected and power consumption in the building 100 is low.

In mode 1, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. After the battery is fully charged, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 40.

In addition, during the night of the day before the reference date, the power stored in storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to load 90. When the power stored in storage battery 40 is used up, the power stored in storage battery 112A is discharged and supplied to load 90. However, based on the usage schedule information, the necessary power according to the mileage on the reference date is left in storage battery 112A. Any shortfall in power used by load 90 is made by purchasing power.

Mode 2
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Usage plan information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Greater than the specified threshold X1 [kWh].

Mode 2 is a control mode that is assumed when sufficient power generation by the solar power generation device 30 is expected and power consumption in the building 100 is low.

In mode 2, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 40. After full charge, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A.
Furthermore, during the night of the day before the reference date, the power stored in the storage battery 112A is discharged and supplied to the load 90. When the power stored in the storage battery 112A is used up, the power stored in the storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to the load 90. When the power stored in the storage battery 40 is used up, the power is purchased.

Mode 3
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Planned use of electric vehicles on the reference date. Surplus power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold X1 [kWh] and greater than the threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 3 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is expected to be sufficient, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also large. Alternatively, it is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also low.

In mode 3, electricity is purchased during the night on the day two days before the reference date and charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. The amount of electricity charged in this case is the difference between the amount of electricity required for driving on the reference date and the amount of electricity expected to be charged into the storage battery 112A on the day before the reference date.

Furthermore, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. After the battery is fully charged, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 40.

Furthermore, during the night of the day before the reference date, the power stored in storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to load 90. When the power stored in storage battery 40 is used up, the power stored in storage battery 112A is discharged and supplied to load 90. However, based on the usage schedule information, the necessary power according to the mileage on the reference date is left in storage battery 112A. Any shortfall in the power used by load 90 is made by purchasing power.

Mode 4
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Surplus power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold X1 [kWh] and greater than the threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 4 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is expected to be sufficient, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also large. Alternatively, it is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also low.

In mode 4, during the day on the day before the reference date, the storage battery 40 is charged with electricity generated by the solar power generation device 30. After the battery 40 is fully charged, the electricity generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A.

In addition, during the night of the day before the reference date, the power stored in storage battery 112A is discharged and supplied to load 90. When the power stored in storage battery 112A is used up, the power stored in storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to load 90. When the power stored in storage battery 40 is used up, the power is purchased.

Mode 5
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Planned use of electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Below the specified threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 5 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low and the amount of surplus power remaining after subtracting the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is significantly small.

In mode 5, electricity is purchased during the night on the day two days before the reference date and charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. The amount of electricity charged at this time is the amount of electricity required for driving on the reference date.

During the day before the reference date, the electricity generated by the solar power generation device 30 is used by the load 90, making it difficult to charge the storage battery 112A and storage battery 40 of the electric vehicle 110A. For this reason, electricity used by the load 90 is purchased as needed. During the nighttime of the day before the reference date, electricity used by the load 90 is purchased.

Mode 6
Connection information: Connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Usage plan information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Below a specified threshold value of X2 [kWh].

Mode 6 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low and the amount of surplus power remaining after subtracting the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is significantly small.

In mode 6, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is used by the load 90, making it difficult to charge the storage battery 112A and storage battery 40 of the electric vehicle 110A. Therefore, the power used by the load 90 is purchased as needed. During the night on the day before the reference date, the power used by the load 90 is purchased.

Mode 7
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Electric vehicles are scheduled to be used on the reference date. Excess power: Greater than the specified threshold X1 [kWh].

Mode 7 is a control mode that is assumed when sufficient power generation by the solar power generation device 30 is expected and power consumption in the building 100 is low.

In mode 7, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged to the storage battery 40. During the night on the day before the reference date, the power charged to the storage battery 40 is discharged and charged to the storage battery 112A. It is also supplied to the load 90. When the power charged to the storage battery 40 is used up, the shortfall in the power charged to the storage battery 112A and the power used by the load 90 is made up by purchasing power.

Mode 8
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Usage plan information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Greater than the specified threshold X1 [kWh].

Mode 8 is a control mode that is assumed when sufficient power generation by the solar power generation device 30 is expected and power consumption in the building 100 is low.

In mode 8, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged to the storage battery 40. Additionally, during the night on the day before the reference date, the power charged to the storage battery 112A is discharged and supplied to the load 90. When the power charged to the storage battery 112A is used up, the power is purchased.

Mode 9
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Planned use of electric vehicles on the reference date. Surplus power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold X1 [kWh] and greater than the threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 9 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is expected to be sufficient, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also large. Alternatively, it is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also low.

In mode 9, electricity is purchased during the night on the day two days before the reference date and charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. The amount of electricity charged at this time is the sum of the amount of electricity required for driving on the reference date and the amount of electricity required for driving on the day before the reference date.

In addition, during the day on the day before the reference date, the electricity generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 40.

Furthermore, during the night of the day before the reference date, the power charged in storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to load 90. When the power charged in storage battery 40 is used up, the power charged in storage battery 112A is discharged and charged to storage battery 112A. It is also supplied to load 90. When the power charged in storage battery 40 is used up, the shortfall in the power charged to storage battery 112A and the power used by load 90 is made up by purchasing power.

Mode 10
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Usage plan information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold X1 [kWh] and greater than the threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 10 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is expected to be sufficient, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also large. Alternatively, it is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low, but the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is also low.

In this mode 10, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is charged into the storage battery 40. During the night on the day before the reference date, the power charged in the storage battery 40 is discharged and supplied to the load 90. When the power charged in the storage battery 40 is used up, the power is purchased.

Mode 11
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Planned use information: Electric vehicles are scheduled to be used on the reference date. Excess power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold x2 [kWh].

Mode 11 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low and the amount of surplus power remaining after subtracting the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is significantly small.

In mode 11, electricity is purchased during the night on the day two days before the reference date and charged into the storage battery 112A of the electric vehicle 110A. The amount of electricity charged at this time is the sum of the amount of electricity required for driving on the reference date and the amount of electricity required for driving on the day before the reference date.

During the day before the reference date, the electricity generated by the solar power generation device 30 is used by the load 90, making it difficult to charge the storage battery 40. For this reason, electricity used by the load 90 is purchased as needed. During the nighttime of the day before the reference date, electricity used by the load 90 is purchased.

Mode 12
Connection information: No connection during the day on the day before the reference date. Usage plan information: No plans to use electric vehicles on the reference date. Excess power: Less than or equal to the specified threshold X2 [kWh].

Mode 12 is a control mode that is assumed when the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is low and the amount of surplus power remaining after subtracting the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is significantly small.

In this mode 12, during the day on the day before the reference date, the power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is used by the load 90, making it difficult to charge the storage battery 40. Therefore, the power used by the load 90 is purchased as needed. During the night on the day before the reference date, the power used by the load 90 is purchased.

<Effect>
Next, the operation of the power supply system 80 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In response to an execution instruction from a user via the input unit 14, the CPU 11 of the control device 10 executes the power control program 13A, thereby executing the power control process shown in Fig. 5.

To avoid confusion, the following description will be given assuming that the power generation amount database 13B and the power consumption amount database 13C have been constructed in advance. The following description will also be given assuming that the usage schedule information has also been stored in advance in the storage unit 13.

(Power control processing)
When execution of the power control program 13A is started, in step 102 the CPU 11 predicts the amount of surplus power on the day before the base date based on the above method, and obtains usage schedule information for the day before the base date and on the base date.

In step 104, the CPU 11 determines whether the amount of surplus energy on the day before the reference date is greater than a predetermined threshold X1, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 106. On the other hand, if the determination is negative in step 104, the process returns to step 204.

In step 106, the CPU 11 determines whether there is planned use information for the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, and if the determination is affirmative (use is planned), the process proceeds to step 108. In step 108, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 1 or mode 7. After step 108, the process proceeds to step 112.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 106 is negative (no use is planned), the process proceeds to step 110. In step 110, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 2 or mode 8. After step 110, the process proceeds to step 114.

In step 112, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 116 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 1. After step 116, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 112 is negative, the process proceeds to step 118, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 7. After step 118, the process proceeds to step 400.

In step 114, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 120 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 2. After step 120, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 114 is negative, the process proceeds to step 122, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 8. After step 122, the process proceeds to step 400.

Of the above steps 102 to 122, steps 102 to 110 are executed two days before the reference date. Steps 112 to 122 are executed the day before the reference date.

In step 204, the CPU 11 determines whether the amount of surplus energy on the day before the reference date is greater than a predetermined threshold X2, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 206. On the other hand, if the determination is negative in step 204, the process returns to step 306.

In step 206, the CPU 11 determines whether there is planned use information for the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, and if the determination is affirmative (planned use), the process proceeds to step 208. In step 208, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 3 or mode 9. After step 208, the process proceeds to step 211.

In step 211, power purchases are performed during the nighttime two days before the reference date. The amount of power purchased is determined based on mode 3 if the usage plan information for the day before the reference date indicates that usage is planned. On the other hand, the amount of power purchased is determined based on mode 9 if the usage plan information for the day before the reference date indicates that usage is not planned. After step 211, the process proceeds to step 212.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 206 is negative (no use is planned), the process proceeds to step 210. In step 210, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 4 or mode 10. After step 210, the process proceeds to step 114.

In step 212, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 216 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 3. After step 216, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 212 is negative, the process proceeds to step 218, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 9. After step 218, the process proceeds to step 400.

In step 214, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 220 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 4. After step 220, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 214 is negative, the process proceeds to step 222, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 10. After step 222, the process proceeds to step 400.

Of the above steps 204 to 222, steps 204 to 211 are executed two days before the reference date. Steps 212 to 222 are executed the day before the reference date. The mode determination in steps 216 and 218 is executed regardless of the content of the power purchase process in step 211.

In step 306, the CPU 11 determines whether there is planned use information for the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, and if the determination is affirmative (planned use), the process proceeds to step 308. In step 308, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 5 or mode 11. After step 308, the process proceeds to step 311.

In step 311, power purchases are performed during the nighttime two days before the reference date. The amount of power purchased is determined based on mode 5 if the usage plan information for the day before the reference date indicates that usage is planned. On the other hand, the amount of power purchased is determined based on mode 11 if the usage plan information for the day before the reference date indicates that usage is not planned. After step 311, the process proceeds to step 312.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 306 is negative (no use is planned), the process proceeds to step 310. In step 310, the CPU 11 determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is either mode 6 or mode 12. After step 310, the process proceeds to step 314.

In step 312, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 316 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 5. After step 316, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 312 is negative, the process proceeds to step 318, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 11. After step 318, the process proceeds to step 400.

In step 314, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is connection information during the day on the day before the reference date. If the determination is affirmative (the connector 60 is connected to the electric vehicle 110A), the CPU 11 proceeds to step 320 and determines that the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is mode 6. After step 320, the CPU 11 proceeds to step 400.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 314 is negative, the process proceeds to step 322, where the control mode for controlling the conversion device 20 on the day before the reference date is determined to be mode 12. After step 322, the process proceeds to step 400.

Of the above steps 306 to 322, steps 304 to 311 are executed two days before the reference date. Steps 312 to 322 are executed the day before the reference date. The mode determination in steps 316 and 318 is executed regardless of the content of the power purchase process in step 311.

In step 400, the CPU 11 determines whether the time to end the power control process has arrived, and if the determination is affirmative, the power control process is terminated. This end time is reached, for example, by a user input via the input unit 14. If the determination is negative in step 400, the process returns to step 102, and the next day after the above-mentioned reference date is set as the new reference date.

<Effects>
As described above, in the control device 10 as an example of a power control device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the use schedule information acquisition unit 11A acquires use schedule information for the electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, thereby making it possible to determine whether or not charging of the electric vehicle 110A is necessary.

In addition, in this control device 10, the surplus power prediction unit 11B predicts the amount of surplus power in the power supply system 80 on the day before the reference date. This makes it possible to determine whether or not it is necessary to purchase power (grid power) from the power grid 70.

Furthermore, in this control device 10, the control unit 11D controls the charging of the storage battery 40, which is a stationary storage battery, and the storage battery 112A in the electric vehicle 110A, as well as the purchase of grid power.

Specifically, for example, as shown in mode 1, if the amount of surplus power in the power supply system 80 is "large" on the day before the reference date, it may be possible to charge the power to be used on the reference date into the storage battery 40 and the storage battery 112A in the electric vehicle 110A without purchasing power on the day before the reference date. Then, on the reference date, the power charged into the storage batteries 40 and 112A can be used. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of power purchased from the grid.

Furthermore, for example, as shown in modes 3 and 4, if the amount of surplus power in the power supply system 80 is "low" on the day before the reference date, the control unit 11D determines the amount of charge to the storage batteries 40 and 112A depending on whether charging of the electric vehicle 110A is required, and purchases power as needed. This ensures the amount of power required by the electric vehicle 110A while preventing excessive charging and reducing the amount of power purchased from the grid.

Furthermore, for example, as shown in modes 5 and 6, if the amount of surplus electricity is zero on the day before the reference date, the amount of charge to the storage batteries 40 and 112A is determined depending on whether charging to the electric vehicle 110A is required, and the required amount of electricity is purchased.

In this way, the control device 10 of the present invention can control the amount of charge to the storage batteries 40 and 112A in a balanced manner, thereby reducing the amount of electricity purchased.

In addition, the control device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention predicts the amount of surplus power using the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 predicted on the day before the reference date and the amount of power consumed by the building 100 predicted on the day before the reference date.

The amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 depends on factors such as the season and the amount of solar radiation. Furthermore, the amount of power consumed by the building 100 depends on factors such as the temperature and the number of people at home. By predicting the amount of surplus power from the predicted values of these unstable indicators, prediction accuracy can be improved compared to predicting the amount of surplus power from only the predicted values of either the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 or the amount of power consumed by the building 100.

For example, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 30 is large and the amount of power consumed by the building 100 is small, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be greater than a predetermined first threshold (e.g., threshold X1). Furthermore, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device is large and the amount of power consumed by the building is large, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be less than the first threshold and greater than a predetermined second threshold (e.g., threshold X2). Furthermore, if the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device is small and the amount of power consumed by the building is large, the amount of surplus power can be predicted to be less than the second threshold.

If the accuracy of surplus power predictions can be improved in this way, the accuracy of predictions regarding the need for power purchases and the necessary amount of power purchases can also be improved, making it possible to curb unnecessary power purchases.

In addition, in a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention, if the amount of surplus electricity on the day before the reference date is predicted to be equal to or less than a predetermined value and there are plans to use an electric vehicle on the reference date, electricity purchases will be carried out during the nighttime two days before the reference date.

If the amount of surplus energy on the day before the reference date is predicted to be below a predetermined value (e.g., threshold value X2) and there are plans to use electric vehicle 110A on the reference date, the surplus energy on the day before the reference date alone may not be enough to charge all of the energy used by electric vehicle 110A and the building on the reference date. Furthermore, even if electricity is purchased during the nighttime on the day before the reference date, it may not be enough.

The control unit 11D therefore purchases electricity during the night two days before the reference date, as shown in modes 3, 5, 9, and 11. This reduces electricity purchases during the day. Furthermore, by purchasing electricity during the night two days before the reference date and adjusting the amount of electricity purchased during the night of the previous day, power shortages can be reduced and excessive electricity purchases can also be reduced.

10. Control device (power control device)
11A: Usage schedule information acquisition unit 11B: Surplus power amount prediction unit 11D: Control unit 13A: Power control program (program)
30 Solar power generation device 40 Storage battery (stationary storage battery)
100 Building 110A Electric vehicle

Claims (5)

a usage plan information acquisition unit that acquires a usage plan for an electric vehicle on a reference date;
a surplus power prediction unit that predicts the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date;
a control unit that controls charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle and purchasing of grid power on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage plan and the predicted surplus power amount;
A power control device comprising: The surplus power amount prediction unit
The amount of power generated by the solar power generation device predicted on the day before the reference date;
The predicted electricity consumption of the building on the day before the reference date;
The power control device according to claim 1 , wherein the amount of surplus power is predicted using the following equation: The control unit
When the amount of surplus power is predicted to be equal to or less than a predetermined value and the utilization is scheduled,
The power purchase is carried out during the night two days before the reference date.
The power control device according to claim 1 . a usage schedule acquisition step of acquiring a usage schedule for the electric vehicle on a reference date;
a surplus power amount prediction step of predicting the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date;
a control step of controlling charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage plan and the predicted amount of surplus power;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following. 1. A power control method executed by a power control device, comprising:
a usage schedule acquisition step of acquiring a usage schedule for the electric vehicle on a reference date;
a surplus power amount prediction step of predicting the amount of surplus power in the power supply system on the day before the reference date;
a control step of controlling charging of the stationary storage battery and the electric vehicle on the day before the reference date based on the acquired usage plan and the predicted amount of surplus power;
A power control method comprising: