Effect of air-conditioner oversizing and control on electric-peak loads in a residence

Abstract

Severe capacity problems are experienced by several electric utilities during hot summer afternoons. It has been found that residential air-conditioning use is the major contributor to these peak loads. Two factors which increase this air-conditioning peak are: 1. (i) the amount by which the air-conditioner has been over-designed and 2. (ii) the manner in which the occupant operates his air-conditioner during hot summer afternoons. The objective of this paper is to present a simplified general model by which one is able to gauge the extent to which both of these factors impact air-conditioner electric-peak loads in a single residence. Illustrative examples on the use of the modeling equations are also given. This model, in conjunction with certain realistic assumptions regarding air-conditioner diversity in the service territory, should be helpful to utility analysts wishing to assess the impact of air-conditioner oversizing and occupant control on the total residential peak loads pertinent to their specific conditions and geographic location.