Real-time demand response through aggregate electric water heaters for load shifting and balancing wind generation

Demand response (DR) has shown to be a promising tool for balancing generation and demand in the future power grid, specifically with high penetration of variable renewable generation, such as wind. This paper evaluates thermostat setpoint control of aggregate electric water heaters (EWHs) for load shifting, and providing desired balancing reserve for the utility. It also assesses the economic benefits of DR for the customers through time-of-use pricing. Simulation results reveal the achievement of the economic benefits to the customers while maintaining their comfort level and providing a large percentage of desired balancing reserve at the presence of wind generation.