Investigation on distribution transformer loss-of-life due to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles charging

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the adverse influences of electric vehicles battery charging on the distribution system. This crucial issue is of greater importance when these ever-growing vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), get charged as extra electric loads from a standard outlet at home. At first, a comprehensive method is proposed in this study to evaluate the damaging impact of several PHEV penetration levels on the loss of distribution transformers life. Next, the proposed method is applied to a real-life distribution system supplying residential customers. Finally, simulation results via MATLAB reveal that the loss-of-life rate during evening peak is 12.21 for a scenario with 40% penetration of PHEVs. In contrast, night-time coordinated charging of PHEVs causes the least harmful effects on the loss of transformer life.