Integration of demand-side response models in Australia

The increased penetration of renewable energy resources in electricity networks brings several benefits such as emissions reductions and potentially lower energy costs for customers. However, it poses significant uncertainties to the system, not only in the supply-side due to intermittent output of renewables but also in the demand-side and electricity prices.

Previous modelling studies effectively highlight the importance of renewable energy resources in the supply-side, while largely omit demand-side generations. This research stresses the need for demand-side generations by looking at various demand-side response models that are suitable for the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM) and integrating them into Melbourne University Renewable Energy Integration Lab (MUREIL). 

This study employs a deterministic linear optimisation technique to cope with information gaps, and uncertainties. At the consumer end, the integration of demand response will lead to lower costs and more flexible use of heating and cooling loads. Ultimately, this simulation will provide for better informed decisions for policy-makers and indicate whether the integration of specific demand response programs is more economical than building new generation capacity.