Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is changing how we think about energy management and EVs. By enabling a bidirectional flow of electricity between EVs and the power grid, V2G allows vehicles to draw power for charging and return stored energy back to the grid when it’s more convenient. This capability is particularly valuable for managing grid congestion and enhancing overall grid stability.
V2G charger installed in the local utility campus
Grid congestion occurs when the electricity demand exceeds the supply capacity, leading to potential overloads and inefficiencies. V2G technology addresses this issue by leveraging the stored energy in EV batteries. During peak demand periods, EVs can discharge energy back to the grid, helping to balance supply and demand. This not only alleviates congestion but also reduces the need for additional grid infrastructure upgrades, making the energy system more efficient and cost-effective.
Smart charging can also be a powerful feature for a stable and resilient grid. Unlike traditional charging methods, smart charging systems optimize the timing and rate of EV charging based on real-time grid conditions and energy prices. By shifting charging sessions to off-peak times or when renewable energy generation is high, smart charging helps to flatten demand peaks and reduce strain on the grid. This dynamic approach ensures a more stable and efficient energy system, accommodating the growing number of EVs without compromising grid reliability.
Smart charging integration with battery energy storage system and PV systems inverter in houses
R&D at EDP is pushing V2G and smart charging technologies through innovative projects like EV4EU and Drive2X. These projects are designed to support the mass deployment of electric vehicles by demonstrating real-world, user-centered use cases of smart charging and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technologies.
In the EV4EU project, we are responsible for coordinating the Portuguese demonstrator in the Azores. This involves overseeing the installation of charging, metering, and communications equipment across various sites, including seven households, one office building, and the campus of the local utility. Our goal is to test different technologies and algorithms aimed at reducing peak load in the local low-voltage grid and mitigating curtailment through coordinated charging with renewable energy surplus.
In the Drive2X project, we’re coordinating every demo in five geographies, testing different V2X settings in various use case scenarios. These settings include an airport, mobility hubs, buildings, houses, hotels, and public charging points. By exploring these diverse environments, we aim to demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of V2X technologies.
V2G and smart charging technologies are key to transforming our energy and mobility systems. By enabling EVs to support the grid and optimizing charging patterns, these innovations contribute to a more stable and resilient energy infrastructure.
Author: Samuel Matias, Research Networks | Research & Innovation at EDP
V2G EV charger installed
PV installation in the LREC building in the Azores
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