Possible role of power-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-grid as storages and flexible loads in the German 110 kV distribution grid

Abstract

The sectoral coupling of road traffic (in form of E-Mobility) and electrical energy supply (known as power-to-vehicle (P2V), vehicle-to-grid (V2G) is discussed as one of the possible development concepts for the flexible system integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and the support of the objectives of the German energy transition (aka. Energiewende). It is obvious that E-mobility, which shall produce as few emissions as possible, should be based on the exclusive use of renewable energies. At the same time, the E-mobility can help to reduce the negative effects of the grid integration of RES to the distribution grids. However, this assumes that the electric vehicles are smart integrated to the grids where they charge, meaning that they must be able to communicate and be controllable. Because per se unplanned and uncontrollable charging processes are harmful for the grid operation, especially if they occur frequently and unexpected in similar time periods, the effects can hardly be controlled and can lead to serious technical problems in practical grid operation. This paper provides an insight into the current development of E-mobility in Germany. The insight will be matched with the German development of the RES. By the combination of both sectors, the possible role of the E-mobility for the distribution grid will be depicted, which can have positive and negative aspects.