Abstract
This study uses a linear optimization framework to evaluate the effect of different demand response (DR)/load control mechanisms on reduction in peak load and energy consumption from the electricity grid in a home with four major controllable appliances — HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems, electric water heaters (EWHs), electric vehicles (EVs), and pool pumps (PPs). Two incentive-based DR methods and four price-based DR schemes — real time pricing (RTP), time-of-use (TOU) rates, critical peak prices (CPP), and variable peak prices (VPP) — are analyzed. Load reduction potential is evaluated for scenarios where the home has both onsite solar and storage, only solar, and no solar or storage. Results show that, from the utility’s perspective, the optimal load control schemes, which result in greatest reduction in peak load and energy consumption from the grid during peak hours, are CPP and VPP (critical price option). By considering the combined effect of demand response, solar generation, and energy storage systems, this study aims to equip electric utilities with the ability to make decisions about dynamic rate design and direct load control to curtail peak demand and shift energy usage.
The mitigating effect of strategic behavior on the net benefits of a direct load control program
