Charge Management
Charge management in connection with photovoltaic systems refers to the intelligent control of electrical consumers to optimize the use of self-generated electricity. The goal is to maximize self-consumption and minimize feed-in into the public grid.
Functionality: A load management system continuously monitors the power production of the photovoltaic system and the current energy demand in the household. If the generated energy exceeds the immediate demand, electrical consumers such as electric cars, heat pumps, or storage batteries are selectively activated to absorb the excess electricity.
Benefits:
- Higher self-consumption: Through targeted control, a larger portion of the self-generated electricity is consumed directly within the household, which increases the economic efficiency of the photovoltaic system.
- Reduced grid load: A reduction in feed-in into the public grid eases the burden on the power grid and contributes to its stability.
- Cost savings: Optimized energy consumption can lead to reduced electricity costs.
- Flexibility: Charge management systems can be adapted to different energy consumption profiles and tariffs.
Components:
- Smart Meter: Measures power consumption and feed-in in real-time.
- Energy Management System: Controls the connected consumers and optimizes the energy flow.
- Communication Modules: Enable connection with other devices in the smart home and integration into energy management systems.
Applications:
- Charge management for electric vehicles: Intelligent control of the charging process to align the vehicle's power demand with PV production.
- Heating and cooling systems: Adjusting the operating times of heat pumps and air conditioners to match PV production.
- Storage systems: Optimal use of battery storage to store excess electricity and release it when needed.
Keywords: Photovoltaics, Self-consumption, Battery storage, Smart Meter