Improvement of residential distribution systems operation via efficient electrical end-uses appliances

Resumen

The best technological energy efficiencies of residential end-uses appliances lead to significant technical and economical improvements in the operation of power systems as well as important energy savings and positive environmental effects. This paper presents a new model to obtain detailed simulations of optimal operation of power distribution networks using hourly power demands. The model also allows to simulate the implementation of energy efficiency and energy savings (under Demand Side Management DSM programs) in the electrical end-uses appliances connected to such distribution networks. This model has been intensively tested in various cases of power distribution systems operation and this paper presents a case of a distribution network in La Rioja (Spain). The computer results have shown that usually the considered DSM programs achieve benefits from an economic point of view (with significant savings of operation variable costs), and from an energy and environmental point of view (with significant energy savings and, therefore, with potential fuel savings).