Virtual power plant independent energy storage

What is a virtual power plant?

A virtual power plant is a system of distributed energy resources—like rooftop solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, and smart water heaters—that work together to balance energy supply and demand on a large scale. They are usually run by local utility companies who oversee this balancing act.

What is virtual power plant (VPP)?

A series of robustness and sensitivity experiments are conducted. The integration of renewable energy and electric vehicles into the smart grid is transforming the energy landscape, and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is at the forefront of this change, aggregating distributed energy resources to optimize supply and demand balance.

Why are virtual power plants more resilient than centralized generating stations?

Virtual power plants are more resilient against service outages than large, centralized generating stations because they distribute energy resources across large areas. Virtual power plants aren’t new. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that there are already 30 to 60 gigawatts of them in operation today.

Are virtual power plants better than new power plants?

Virtual power sources typically are quicker to site and build, and can be cleaner and cheaper to operate, than new power plants. Virtual power plants are more resilient against service outages than large, centralized generating stations because they distribute energy resources across large areas. Virtual power plants aren’t new.

Are virtual power plants a panacea?

Virtual power plants aren’t a panacea. Many customers are reluctant to give up even temporary control of their thermostats, or have a delay when charging their electric car. Some consumers are also concerned about the security and privacy of smart meters.

Could virtual power plants reshape electric power?

Virtual power plants could help reshape electric power into an industry that’s more nimble, efficient and responsive to changing conditions and customers’ needs. Some power plants don’t have massive smokestacks or cooling towers – or even a central site.