The One-Node Approach to Implement Smart Grid Functions for Residential Loads

This paper presents and tests a one-node method for implementing smart grid functions to operate residential loads. The proposed method is developed based on adjusting the power demands of residential loads to achieve a desired load-demand profile at the supply node. A desired load-demand profile is set based on operating thermostatically controlled appliances (TCAs) in the target residential loads. Smart grid functions are implemented to operate TCAs so that thermal energy is stored during the daily off-peak-demand hours. This stored thermal energy is discharged during daily peak-demand hours in order to reduce power demands of residential loads during these hours. The command power assigned to each TCA controller (set to implement smart grid functions) is initiated using a modified-profile for residential load hosting these TCAs. The one-node method is implemented and tested for a university campus that has 45 buildings. Each building has central central heating units and water heaters, and some buildings have central air conditioner units. Tests are performed for different seasons, where power demands of campus buildings are controlled by peak-demand management (as a smart grid function). Test results show the accuracy and simplicity of the one-node method to assign command values for each building to ensure reduced power losses and improved voltage.