CoFELS: Conceptual Framework for Electricity Load Shifting System Design

The realization of the smart grid depends critically on the successful engagement of consumers in adapting their energy consumption behavior to the intermittent generation of renewable energy. The engaged consumers participate in demand response programs in which they provide a shift of electricity consumption based on incentives provided. However, understanding the concept of load shifting and the decision when to shift consumption is quite complex for most consumers and it may interfere with daily practices leading to inconveniences. Therefore, there is a strong need for efficient decision-support systems to help consumers to shift or not to shift electricity consumption. This paper presents a conceptual framework aimed at system designers and developers of electricity load shifting applications. The framework is validated by implementation of a prototype that provides planning and decision support for consumers. The prototype provides insight into possible load shifting capability by providing feedback on the CO2 emission intensity of energy production, thus encouraging consumers to change behavior and consume energy in a more sustainable way.