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The transition to electric vehicles is accelerating rapidly all over the world. More than just a promise of transport decarbonisation, it’s also a coupling of the energy and transport worlds in a way they haven’t been before.  There are a number of challenges and opportunities related to the mass roll out of these vehicles.  CIGRE Working Group (WG) C6.40: “Electric Vehicles as Distributed Energy Resource (DER) Systems” has recently published Technical Brochure 954 which considers these aspects.  The WG had a number of members from Australia, Laura JONES, Pierluigi MANCARELLA, David STEPHENS, Shariq RIAZ, David BUTLER and Carmen BAS DOMENECH.

 
Electric Vehicles: The Future of Distributed Energy Resources

Electric vehicles (EVs) are not just transforming the transportation sector; they are poised to revolutionize the energy landscape as well. As mobile energy storage units, EVs offer a unique opportunity to enhance the flexibility and efficiency of power systems, making them a critical component in the transition to a sustainable energy future. This article explores the potential of EVs as distributed energy resources (DER) and their role in modern power systems.

The Rise of Electric Vehicles

The adoption of EVs is accelerating globally, driven by technological advancements, government policies, and increasing consumer demand. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global EV sales could reach 28.6 million by 2030. 

EVs as Distributed Energy Resources

EVs can store electricity and serve as DERs, integrating seamlessly into the grid infrastructure. This flexibility allows for innovative approaches to managing energy generation and demand, improving grid reliability, and integrating more renewable energy sources. The report highlights several key aspects of EVs as DERs:

1. EV Rollout Forecasts: The report provides forecasts for the rise of EVs, analysing factors influencing their adoption rates and the impact on distribution network planning. It emphasizes the importance of understanding spatial load behaviour and the need for efficient distribution network planning to accommodate EVs.  Examples from Portugal and Belgium address this by overlaying spatial load behaviour with the socio-economic profile of residents to provide a spatial EV uptake forecast. This enables much better prediction of where networks are likely to become constrained first. 
2. Charging Technologies: Various charging technologies, including plug-in and wireless charging modes, are explored. The report compares these technologies, highlighting their efficiency, power levels, and integration with EVs. Fast and ultra-fast charging solutions are also discussed, emphasizing the need for grid infrastructure upgrades to support these technologies.
3. Storage Technologies: The report delves into different storage technologies for EVs, such as lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries, and fuel cells. It compares their energy densities, efficiency, and potential for providing grid services. The advancements in battery technology are crucial for enhancing EV performance and range.
4. Control Approaches: Efficiently managing EV charging is essential for grid stability. The report discusses various control approaches, including uncontrolled charging, time-of-use tariffs, smart charging, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration. V2G technology, in particular, allows EVs to not only draw power from the grid but also return energy when needed, effectively turning EVs into mobile grid assets.

Provision of Ancillary Services

EVs can provide valuable ancillary services to both distribution and transmission system operators particularly when they have V2G capability. These services include voltage support, demand response, frequency regulation, and grid resiliency. By participating in these services, EVs can enhance grid stability and reliability.

Business Models and Market Integration

The report also explores various business models for integrating EVs into the energy market. It highlights the roles of different stakeholders, including EV owners, aggregators, and grid operators. Effective market integration requires regulatory frameworks that incentivize EV participation in grid services and ensure fair compensation for their contributions.

Challenges and Future Directions

While the potential of EVs as DERs is immense, several challenges need to be addressed. These include the high initial costs of V2G technology, battery degradation concerns, and the need for standardized communication protocols. Additionally, grid infrastructure upgrades are necessary to support the widespread adoption of fast and ultra-fast charging stations.

Conclusion

Electric vehicles are set to play a pivotal role in the future of energy systems. By serving as distributed energy resources, EVs can enhance grid stability, support renewable energy integration, and provide valuable ancillary services. As technology advances and regulatory frameworks evolve, the full potential of EVs as DERs will be realized, driving us towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future. 
 

The Technical Brochure is free for members and 200€ for non-members.

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