Characterization and Flexibility of a ThermoElectric Refrigeration Unit

The ThermoElectric Refrigerator (TER) is a solid-state energy-conversion technology which exploits the Peltier effect to convert electricity into thermal energy for heating or cooling. This system has been used in residential and commercial sectors. Therefore, TERs are potentially useful to offer energy services required by the electrical grid. In this article, a model of a TER is developed and characterized by experimental data. It is shown that the TER can operate as a flexible load by modifying the internal temperature set point. A Proportional-Integral controller able to follow the set-point change is used. Finally, a TER flexibility analysis is developed, achieving downward and upward flexibility in energy consumption.