Flex your heat pump!

Situations like these, in which the grid is under stress, are likely to happen more often. As more renewable energy resources are integrated, the electricity supply becomes more unpredictable. This increases the need for support to match generated energy with energy consumption, which is the key to keeping the power grid stable. One promising source of support lies right in our homes: flexible electricity use from heating. Heat pumps are widely used and can adjust their electricity use when needed. If used properly, this flexibility can play a key role in supporting the grid. However, people will only provide this flexibility if they get paid for it, since reducing their energy use could result in discomfort and a reluctance to participate.

Here is the challenge: how do we decide when and how much flexibility a heat pump can offer?

To answer this question, we develop a model that captures how people trade off between room temperature and profits. Using this behavioral model, we apply an optimization algorithm to calculate the exact timing and magnitude of power adjustments that maximize the user’s profit while keeping the indoor temperature within the acceptable comfort range.

With the help of this optimized strategy, you too can make your heat pump flexible! The next time you receive the overload warning from the grid, simply adjust your heat pump according to the algorithm’s suggestion, letting the room cool by just maybe half a degree. You stay cozy, help reduce the load on the grid, and even earn a bit of money, all while relaxing on your couch!