Impact of electric vehicles on low-voltage networks: a probabilistic analysis

Abstract

The past two decades have seen a rise in the need for electric vehicles (EVs) due to several reasons, such as countries deciding to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with sustainable development goals (SDGs). However, this has resulted in an increase in the demand on the power grid, especially the low-voltage (LV) grid, as EVs are charged at EV owner premises. This paper investigates the impact of EVs on the low-voltage grid using a probabilistic approach. The low-voltage network is simulated in DIgSILENT PowerFactory using the probabilistic load-flow method. A probability distribution function for EV charging power was derived using a United Kingdom (UK) EV dataset. In the simulation study, multiple EV penetration levels, i.e., 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, are investigated. The results have shown that as EV penetration increases in the distribution network, there is a significant increase in transformer loading, and the steady-state voltage levels stipulated in distribution codes are exceeded. Vehicle to grid (V2G) has indicated a positive impact on the distribution network.