Energy manager with minimum use energy profile

摘要

A system and method for maximizing the value of power generated by a residential power generator. A home energy manager device is configured to implement a minimum energy usage profile during a peak demand event such that a maximum amount of power generated by the consumer can be sold back to the utility. For renewable energy sources such as solar cells, peak demand events often correspond with peak output of the renewable energy source. For example, hot sunny summer days are conducive to maximum solar power output and, typically, also result in maximum power demand for powering air conditioners.

主权项

1. An energy management system for a home, comprising:
a refrigerator; at least one residential power generator; and a home energy manager in communication with said at least one energy consuming device and said at least one residential power generator, the home energy manager device comprising a controller coupled with the refrigerator, wherein the controller is configured to detect when a peak demand condition corresponding to increased energy rates occurs at the same time as a period of high renewable energy availability that maximizes a total power output of the at least one residential power generator, and wherein, in response to both the peak demand condition and the period of high renewable energy availability, the controller is configured to operate the refrigerator in accordance with a minimum energy use profile, wherein the minimum energy use profile reduces a setpoint on the refrigerator to a value that reduces overall energy consumption and that prevents food spoilage, and wherein the minimum energy use profile instructs the controller to direct energy from the at least one residential power generator to a power grid coupled with the home.