Combined HVAC and Battery Scheduling for Demand Response in a Building

This article will discuss and simulate a demand management algorithm in a building with a battery energy storage system (BESS) and heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) scheduling using the model predictive control (MPC). Behind-the-meter energy storage system is used for modifying the load shape and minimizing the demand charge of a building. The thermal mass of the building can also be utilized to store the heat/cool energy and HVAC is scheduled to minimize power consumption during peak times. Initially, this article works with optimizing BESS using MPC and compares the results with those of regular optimization. Later HVAC is modeled mathematically to be able to use in optimization. Finally, this article will co-optimize the battery and HVAC schedule minimizing the annual electricity bill without causing thermal discomfort to the residents of the building. The platform has been simulated on a sample building modeled in EnergyPlus.