A multiple-block fuzzy logic-based electric water heater demand-side management strategy for leveling distribution feeder demand profile

This paper describes a multiple-block fuzzy logic-based demand-side management (DSM) strategy to shift the peaks of the residential electric water-heater power demand component of a distribution area from periods of high demand for electricity to off-peak hours. This is achieved by dividing the distribution area into several blocks and, controlling each block by a different fuzzy controller. Simulation results are presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed DSM strategy to shift the electric water-heater peak demand to off-peak periods and to level the utility distribution demand profile. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.