The impact of large-scale EV charging on the real-time operation of distribution systems: A comprehensive review

TL;DR

This paper reviews how large-scale EV charging affects distribution system operations, highlighting challenges and opportunities for real-time management to enhance grid stability and integrate renewable energy effectively.

Contribution

It offers a comprehensive analysis of EV charging impacts and discusses strategies to mitigate risks and leverage EVs for grid support in real-time operations.

Findings

EV charging introduces significant load fluctuations and stability risks.

Proper management can turn EVs into grid-supporting resources.

Real-time strategies improve power quality and renewable integration.

Abstract

With the large-scale integration of electric vehicles (EVs) in the distribution grid, the unpredictable nature of EV charging introduces considerable uncertainties to the grid's real-time operations. This can exacerbate load fluctuations, compromise power quality, and pose risks to the grid's stability and security. However, due to their dual role as controllable loads and energy storage devices, EVs have the potential to mitigate these fluctuations, balance the variability of renewable energy sources, and provide ancillary services that support grid stability. By leveraging the bidirectional flow of information and energy in smart grids, the adverse effects of EV charging can be minimized and even converted into beneficial outcomes through effective real-time management strategies. This paper explores the negative impacts of EV charging on the distribution system's real-time operations and outlines methods to transform these challenges into positive contributions. Additionally, it provides an in-depth analysis of the real-time management system for EV charging, focusing on state estimation and management strategies.