Sizing of district heating systems based on smart meter data: Quantifying the aggregated domestic energy demand and demand diversity in the UK. (15th February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Zhikun; Crawley, Jenny; Li, Francis G.N.; Lowe, Robert
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 193(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-02-15
• Subjects: District energy -- Load profile -- Smart meter -- Demand diversity; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.116780
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: The sizing of district energy systems involves a trade-off between reliability and continuity of service, and avoidance of capital and running costs associated with oversizing. Finding the most appropriate sizing requires a thorough understanding of energy demand. However, empirical data necessary to support such an understanding is scarce, and district energy systems are typically oversized. This study uses smart meter data from the largest field trial to analyse residential energy consumption in the UK. It presents graphically the seasonal and daily variations in energy consumption patterns, the weather dependence of energy loads, and peak hourly demand during particularly cold weather conditions. It also explores the diversity effect in residential energy consumption and computes the after diversity maximum demand at different levels of aggregations. Results show that, peak hourly gas consumption was nearly seven times higher than electricity consumption during the cold spells, while diversity reduced gas and electricity maximum demand per dwelling up to 33% and 47%, respectively. This empirical quantitative analysis of energy demand and diversity can support improved design and operation of district energy, and in particular, enable reduced capital and running costs, and an improved understanding of economies of scale for district heating networks. Highlights: Smart meter data monitored in two unusually cold years were analysed. Electricity, gas and temperature profiles over a whole year were constructed. Power temperature gradients were demonstrated based on the external temperatures. Winter peak hourly gas to electricity consumption ratio was around seven. After diversity maximum demand for gas and electricity were illustrated.