Integration of Electric Vehicles into the Power Distribution System

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular because of their high efficiency and sustainability. However, EVs represent an intensive electric load. Their penetration to the power system poses significant challenges to power distribution system operation and control, such as voltage drop and transformer overload. This study will evaluate the impact of EV penetration on Saskatchewan’s urban residential power distribution system and develop plans to cope with the EV load growth. Actual EV charging profiles will be analyzed to understand the characteristics of the EV charging. Individual and aggregated EV charging models based on Saskatchewan’s local situations will be developed. The impact of uncontrolled EV charging load on the voltage drop of 120/240V systems and 14.4 kV to 120/240V service transformers will be evaluated. Optimal EV load aggregation methods and smart charging algorithms will be developed to cope with the negative impact.

Faculty Supervisor:

Zhanle Wang;Raman Paranjape

Student:

Partner:

SaskPower

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Utilities

University:

University of Regina

Program: