Methodology for the optimal design of PEV charging systems with multiple chargers and distributed resources

Abstract

Increased penetration of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) will necessitate deployment of numerous PEV chargers. Pairing these chargers with renewable distributed generation (DG) and storage can potentially alleviate negative impacts on the distribution grid and help meet renewable portfolio goals. The optimal design of such integrated charging systems depends on many factors, including geographic location and charging profiles. This paper presents an optimization methodology for designing integrated PEV charging systems with multiple chargers and distributed resources. This methodology is used to investigate optimal designs for charging systems at a retail business and on a university campus. When PEV charging can introduce a demand charge, it is shown that the optimal design depends on the time of charging and the level of existing load. When non-negligible distribution system losses exist between charger locations, it is shown that the optimal size and location of DG and storage depends on the charging profile of the different chargers and the distribution efficiency.