# A microgrid deployment framework to support drayage electrification

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a framework using microgrids with solar and battery storage to support the electrification of heavy-duty vehicles and reduce strain on the electric grid.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is a modular, data-driven framework for identifying and deploying microgrids to support heavy-duty electric vehicle charging.

## Key findings

- Microgrids can close grid power gaps from heavy-duty EV fleet charging, boosting resilience.
- Microgrids with LFP batteries can significantly reduce electrification costs.
- The framework enables siting analysis across the US to enhance grid capacity and energy resiliency.

## Abstract

The electrification of heavy-duty commercial vehicles (HDCVs) is key to enhancing air quality and reducing urban air pollution, but it also imposes significant demands on an electric grid not designed for such high loads. Without complementary infrastructure, electrification may yield limited air quality improvements. This article explores the critical role of microgrids—integrating solar photovoltaics and battery storage—in supporting HDCV electrification. We present an integrated framework to identify viable microgrid sites in a given region, estimate deployment costs, and optimize power use to reduce dependence on the grid. As a case study, we apply the framework to the region around the Port of Savannah, GA, USA, demonstrating how targeted microgrid deployment can enhance grid capacity, improve energy resiliency, and support electrified freight transport.

•Microgrids can close grid power gaps from heavy-duty EV fleet charging, boosting resilience•Microgrids, especially with LFP batteries, can significantly reduce electrification costs•The microgrid framework is modular and data-driven, enabling siting analysis across the US

Microgrids can close grid power gaps from heavy-duty EV fleet charging, boosting resilience

Microgrids, especially with LFP batteries, can significantly reduce electrification costs

The microgrid framework is modular and data-driven, enabling siting analysis across the US

Energy policy; Engineering; Electrical engineering