The HomeBots System and Field Tests: A Multi-Commodity Market for Predicitive
Load Management
Abstract
We present a system called HOMEBOTS for agent-based energy management services,
realized by networked "smart" industrial and household equipment communicating
over the power line and other media. As a consequence of the deregulation
of the electricity markets in many countries, energy utilities have started
to pay high interest in offering value-added energy customer services rather
than merely selling electricity (kWh). We discuss a number of important
technical and business issues in launching such services, and describe some
advanced solutions.
First, we present a new computational market theory, implemented in
the HOMEBOTS system. It shows how large numbers of electrical loads can
be automatically managed by autonomous agents, that communicate and negotiate
in an electronic multi-commodity market leading to optimal use of electrical
power. The advantages of this agent-based approach compared to traditional
methods for power load management are described. Second, we demonstrate
through simulated business scenarios that significant energy cost savings
can thus be achieved. Third, our approach has been tested in a field experiment
in an energy distribution area in the South-East of Sweden. The performed
field tests show that the real-time requirements for agent communication
over the power line in energy services are well met in realistic application
settings.
The entire paper in PDF format.
Last edited April 6, 1999 by fredrik.ygge@enersearch.se. |
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