Modeling of Domestic Electric Water Heaters for Demand Response

The article studies the importance of electric storage water heaters for grid balancing. Two demand response products that water heaters can offer on the energy market are considered, and the crucial role of accurate heater modeling in their implementation is emphasized. Based on the Ukrainian market analysis, the parameters of a typical domestic water heater are determined. It is also stated that an accurate reproduction of the temperature stratification in the tank is necessary for the simulation and control of the water heater demand response. The type of mathematical model most suitable for the given task is considered, and its parameters for a typical domestic water heater are identified. The OpenModelica is used for numerical modeling of water heater operation. The verification on the experimental data shows sufficient accuracy of the proposed model for planning water heater energy management within 24 hours.