Cooperation scheme between KNX and a microgrid control system for enhanced demand-side management

Abstract

Renewable Energy Sources (RES) plants still have to operate at their maximum possible output and are therefore independent of electric energy consumption. Thus, coordination between distributed generators, energy storage systems and flexible loads is expected to add a great value to grid operations and facilitate further RES penetration. Increasing penetration of home automation technologies at the demand-side and their control possibilities over energy consumption may also make valuable contributions to the grid operation. Thus, the control system of the future grid should be compatible with home automation systems. This paper presents a simple technique that enables home automation technologies to be used for demand-side management in smart grids. The proposed technique does not require additional interface or software tools and therefore is cost-effective. Experimental results prove that these technologies could contribute to the voltage regulation as well as to the application of efficient energy management policies of microgrids.