Event Description
An Electrical-Thermal Circuit Framework for Utilizing Buildings as Controllable Power System Loads
Presenter
Mohammed Muthalib
Advisor
Dr. Chika Nwankpa
Abstract
The primary objective of this research is to develop a framework whereby variations in building loads and corresponding impacts on the electric power system can be studied. Space conditioning of commercial, residential, and industrial buildings represents a significant portion of the electrical demand. Consequently, the electrical-thermal characteristics of these HVAC loads can be exploited to yield a significant controllable load resource for the electric grid.
As a consequence of the smart grid initiative, many building managers now have the opportunity to participate in electric energy markets. Under demand response (DR) programs buildings are able to bid spare capacity as controllable load resources for electric grid operation, a privilege formerly reserved for generators. The present research investigates the impacts of such DR actions as well as possibilities for buildings to adopt more active roles in building-grid operation. The investigation pursues a building load model suitable for power system analysis and evaluates the influence that building thermostatic control has on electric grid voltages, currents and load flow capability. The overarching goal is to facilitate better understanding of building-grid connected behavior and to promote active coordination between building managers and electric grid operators. |
