Abstract
Thermostatically controlled loads (TCLs) are often considered as a possible resource for demand response (DR) events. However, it is well understood that coordinated control of a large population of previously un-coordinated TCLs may result in load synchronization that results in higher peaks and large uncontrolled swings in aggregate load. In this paper we use agent based modeling to simulate a number of residential air conditioning loads and allow each to communicate a limited amount of information with their nearest neighbors. As a result, we document emergent behavior of this large scale, distributed and nonlinear system. Using the techniques described here, the population of TCLs experienced up to a 30% reduction in peak demand following the DR event. This behavior is shown to be beneficial to the goals of balancing the grid and integrating increasing penetration of variable generators.
Agent-Based Modeling of Retail Electrical Energy Markets With Demand Response