Challenges in grid integration of electric vehicles in urban and rural areas

Abstract

The ramp-up of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) could lead to severe grid issues but also enables flexibility. This paper provides a better understanding of the challenges and potentials of integrating BEVs in power grids. Three charging strategies were modelled on four use cases and six low-voltage grids for urban and rural areas. Especially in rural areas, where many cars charge at home overnight, the charging strategy significantly affects grid issues. Purely market-oriented strategies can lead to high load peaks and thus to transformer and line overloading, while even a relatively simple, balanced charging strategy can significantly reduce grid issues.