Demand Response Strategy Optimization Method Based on Differentiated Comprehensive Benefit Model of Air-Conditioning Customers

Air-conditioning systems are critical demand response (DR) resources, yet conventional temperature adjustment strategies based on fixed setpoints often neglect users’ heterogeneous economic and comfort requirements. This paper proposes a DR strategy optimization method based on user-specific comprehensive benefit evaluation. Firstly, a quantitative model integrating economic benefits and thermal comfort loss is established through the DR benefit mechanism. Subsequently, a DR strategy optimization model is established with indoor temperature setpoints as variables to maximize comprehensive benefits. Finally, comparative simulations involving 15 customers with varying benefit parameters (basic profitability and labor elasticity coefficients) demonstrate the proposed strategy’s superiority in load reduction and customers’ benefit over traditional fixed setpoint methods. The results indicate the following: (1) the optimized strategy achieves greater load reduction under most scenarios than traditional fixed-setpoint adjustment strategies; (2) all participants obtain enhanced comprehensive benefits compared with traditional strategies; and (3) customers with lower profitability and less dependency on labor show better responsiveness. This study improves DR participation incentives by balancing economic and comfort benefits, providing theoretical support for designing user-specific demand-side management policies in smart building applications.