Local coordinated control of heat pumps and PV systems in residential distribution grids

Heat pumps (HP) are flexible loads that make possible the synergy between the electricity and heating energy sectors, thus providing increased flexibility for the operation of the power system. As the increasing penetration of HPs in the power system can also induce problems to the electricity grid, the proper control of these devices is crucial in order to benefit from their operation. This paper focuses on understanding the integration of HPs in residential distribution grids and their interaction with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. A simple and effective control scheme without the need of communication is developed for the proper coordination of these units in order to boost PV energy usage, while avoiding grid voltage problems and maintaining heat comfort. Results showed the ability of HPs to cooperate with PVs transferring the HP operation from evening to midday thereby increasing self-consumption, relieving the grid and minimizing loss of heat comfort.