An approach to decreasing the peak electrical demand in residences

A project to reduce the peak electrical demand by 65% for a new residential housing development in the Desert Southwest portion of the US is described. The period of the peak demand is considered to be 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm local daylight savings time. Four general approaches are being used to accomplish this. One is the use of a very energy conserving design for the buildings. Second, all of the residences have a photovoltaic array on them. Third, some new approaches to demand side management are being developed whereby the utility and the customer interact. Finally, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is being evaluated. Results found to date are summarized in this paper. Predictions for success are given and work remaining is outlined.