What is a Control Unit?
The CU serves as a communication interface between software and hardware. By hardware, we mean any technology connected to the grid that can consume or produce energy, such as a battery with an inverter (as part of every smart battery storage brAIn), solar panel, HVAC system, electric vehicle charger, etc.
How does it work?
Proprietary software developed by FUERGY monitors the energy consumption of the delivery point. Based on historical and online data, implemented artificial intelligence creates patterns of behavior. It then compares these models with the delivery point’s current consumption and other external data, such as the state of the transmission system (whether there is a surplus of energy or energy shortage), weather forecasts or the development of prices in the energy market, and enlists the help of artificial intelligence which generating predictions. Based on these inputs, the software makes autonomous decisions and sends instructions to the CU.
The CU then charges or discharges batteries, or switches appliances on or off so they produce or consume electricity in line with the needs of the power grid, while at the same time, do not affect availability at the delivery point. This small device ensures that individual orders from the software also take place physically.
Office building example
It's an unexpectedly sunny day at the weekend and solar panels are producing more energy than the power grid needs. The FUERGY software identifies excess energy in the power grid. It thus instructs the CU to charge the batteries, as well as to turn on the air conditioning system along with electric heating, while not surpassing the pre-set temperature of 24°C. According to behavior patterns, the building is empty over the weekend so the FUERGY software knows that the running HVAC systems won’t disturb anyone. At the same time, the increased energy consumption helps to stabilize the power grid.
Smart grids as part of Smart cities
Individual CUs can be interconnected virtually creating a so-called smart grid. Just like a smart city, smart grids analyze "big data" and search for synergies. Having a complete overview of what is happening in the power grid as well as outside of it allows for an increase in the degree of automation, optimization of energy production and consumption, or a boost in electromobility.
This results in, among other things, preventing power grid overload, lower costs for transmission system operators, distribution system operators and energy suppliers, and ultimately, cheaper energy for end consumers.
Compatibility with the latest technologies
What makes the CU a “device of the future” is its compatibility with any kind of appliance or machine that consumes or produces electricity. Therefore, new technologies will not present a problem. On the contrary, with the arrival of new, more efficient technologies, the smart grid will improve too. The integration of renewable energy sources should not be a problem either, as energy is managed in a complex manner, regardless if it's a small rooftop PV or a large wind or solar farm. Everyone benefits from smart grids.
Utilized technologies
The CU consists of hardware built on ARM 32 bit architecture with an extension composed of a μQseven module with a 64 bit Intel® Atom™ processor and implemented software. The CU can be updated or controlled remotely through a cloud server.
A FUERGY Power Merger is installed together with the CU. It is a hardware device allowing the parallel connection of three independent DC power sources without any cross-influence. The power merger ensures the operational continuity of connected technologies even in the case of a malfunction in one of the power sources.
Both devices have been specially developed by FUERGY's hardware team to meet the high requirements of our energy management systems and are crucial for reaching desired results.
Are you interested in learning more about how the FUERGY Control Unit can optimize your energy solutions? Contact us today! Our team is ready to answer all of your questions and help you find the best solution to your needs. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the energy revolution together with FUERGY.
New dimension of energy revolution
