Uncoordinated charging impacts of electric vehicles on electric distribution grids: Normal and fast charging comparison

Abstract

Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) have uncertain penetration in electric grids due to uncertainties in charging and discharging patterns. This uncertainty together with various driving habits makes it difficult to accurately assess the effects on local distribution network. Extra electrical loads due uncoordinated charging of electric vehicles have different impacts on the local distribution grid. This paper proposes a method to evaluate the impacts of uncoordinated PEVs charging on the distribution grid during peak period. Two PEVs charging scenarios are studied, including normal and fast charging. The impact analysis is evaluated in terms of voltage violations, power losses and line loading, which is implemented on a real distribution system in Canada. The results of the analysis indicate that there are significant impacts on distribution networks due to PEVs charging, which limits the accommodation of desired penetration levels of PEVs.