Analysing EV Charging and DERs Effects on Microgrid Performance and A Multi-IndexApproach for Optimizing

Abstract

The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) brings new challenges to electricity distribution systems, includingcareful planning of electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) installations. This paper analyzes the impacts of fixed-size Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on the microgrid’s reliability and performance across four scenarios. Asystematic, simulation-based methodology was developed to assess the implications of EVCS deployment on someregard, such as voltage imbalances, losses in power, reliability of supply, and the voltage stability index. Thedevelopment of a novel index, termed MORVSL, is proposed comprising several reliability indices such as SAIFI,SAIDI, CAIDI, ENS and the active and reactive losses and the voltage stability deviation index. The analysis aimsto ascertain the effects these indices have on the microgrid and determine the optimal sites for EVCS placement. Thefull analysis is performed on the IEEE-9bus AC microgrid test system with and without istributed energy resourcesoffering new insights in the form of a Simulink 2021a model to test the placement of EVCS. This EV charginginfrastructure has significant effects on the microgrid and optimizing its configuration will contribute to the goals ofhaving more efficient and reliable systems.

Introduction: The shift from conventional internal combustion engine cars to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating globally dueto environmental issues and regulations aimed at addressing climate change [1]. The increasing popularity of electriccars has led to a heightened demand for electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS), hence exerting extra pressure onthe current power distribution infrastructure [2]. To guarantee the continuity, reliability, and efficiency of the powergrid, considerable consideration must be given to the integration of EVCS.

The installation of EV charging stations may lead to issues within the distribution network, including increaseddemand, voltage fluctuations, and potential system overload during peak charging periods [4]. These difficultiesmust be investigated and strategised to mitigate adverse effects on overall system performance. Improper placementor overload circumstances of EVCS can result in significant voltage drop, heightened active power losses, andcritically diminished voltage stability [5]. Enhancing the placement and dimensions of charging stations wouldcontribute to maintaining the dependability of the distribution system [6].

NithersWerkaarUndaar has chosen to explore the influence of the EVCS on several system metrics, includingvoltage stability and power flow. 7 It is understandable that there is limited scholarly study employing an integrated,multi-disciplinary strategy to concurrently analyse performance on goals. Numerous studies conducted to date areplagued with ill-posed difficulties due to their reliance on overly simplistic models that exclusively address certainphenomena—such as voltage noise, power supply losses, and other aspects of system operation in a broad sense. [8].

This research, grounded on Multi-Criterion Decision Analysis (MCDA), seeks to address existing deficiencies bydeveloping and incorporating an index function that encompasses essential aspects of a distribution system,including voltage regulation, power losses, reliability indices, and the voltage stability index as pivotal elements.The aim is to investigate various dimensions of EVCS’s influence on the operational efficacy of the IEEE 9 bus ACmicrogrids, encompassing technical, economic, and ICT-enabled environmental systems thinking style democracy,to identify effective strategies and technologies that facilitate the integration of EV charging infrastructure withinmicrogrid systems to enhance emissions reduction objectives and system equilibrium. [9-10].