Feasibility Study of Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure at Selected Petrol Stations in Malaysia

Abstract

The transition from the conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) to electric vehicles (EV) are expected to result in higher total electricity demand in the country. With the introduction of more EVs into the market, the need for charging stations will grow, subsequently increasing power consumption. This research study aims to assess the potential of solar energy production at petrol stations in central region of Peninsular Malaysia and assess the feasibility of solar-powered petrol stations in meeting the energy demands of electric vehicles. 10 samples of existing petrol stations are selected to install a solar-powered DC charging station as a case study. To study their energy consumption, 90kW DC charger was evaluated. The design of the PV systems for the petrol stations was done by using the PVsyst simulation software. As a result, it is found that 90% of the designed PV systems are able to generate enough energy to meet the estimated annual energy consumption of the 90kW DC charging system. The results also showed that the cost to install the solar-powered charging system for both power ratings can be recouped in less than 2 years. Overall, this research study offers valuable insights for addressing the rising energy consumption resulting from the increased penetration of electric vehicles in the future. Additionally, the implementation of solar-powered charging infrastructure aligns with the country’s renewable energy objectives and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the assessment of EV penetration and the adoption of charging infrastructure was conducted based on government targets rather than relying on current data regarding the actual numbers and trends of EVs and chargers in Malaysia. The availability of accurate and up-to-date data on the number of EVs, their battery characteristics, chargers, and user charging behaviors in Malaysia would contribute to further enhancing this research work.