Design of direct load control device and its effect on load reduction

Abstract

Demand for air conditioning is rising at an unprecedented level. Sudden increase in air conditioning usage has a potential of destabilizing the power grid and at extreme condition can cause power outages. Ability to control air conditioning is therefore a very significant subject for both the electric power utility and electric power consumer. In some developed countries, this is realized by a program called demand-side management. The progress of information technology and the increasing affordability of the cost of fabricating electronic devices have given rise to new concepts in the implementation of demand-side management programs, namely the direct load control method. Direct load control is a mechanism that allows demand-side management programs to run automatically without interference from consumers. This is done by directly controlling consumer electricity equipment through the internet or other wireless communication networks. This study analyzes a method to design a controlling device to be used in direct load control implementation. Load demand of the system is compared between before and after the installation of direct load control devices. Significant load reduction is noticed after the installation of direct load control devices.