Challenges of EV Charging
EV charging can put a strain on the grid and distribution transformers due to the increased electricity demand and concentrated charging patterns. As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road increases, the overall demand for electricity rises. When numerous EVs are charging simultaneously, especially during peak charging periods, it can significantly increase the demand on the power grid. EV charging also tends to be concentrated in specific locations, such as residential neighborhoods, workplaces, or public charging stations. This concentration of charging load can further exacerbate the strain on the power grid and distribution transformers. When multiple EVs are plugged in and charging simultaneously, it can create localized spikes in electricity demand.
How Does EV Charging Challenge the Distribution Network?
Overloading of Substations
The increased electricity demand from EV charging can overload local substations. If the substations are not designed to handle the added load, it can result in overheating, equipment failure, and even power outages.
Distribution Network Overload
The distribution network, including transformers, power lines, and associated equipment, may experience strain when multiple EVs are charging in a specific area. The transformers play a crucial role in delivering electricity to households and businesses. The higher demand for electricity from EV charging can exceed the capacity of these transformers, leading to overheating, reduced efficiency, and potential failures.
Localized Grid Congestion
The concentrated demand for electricity in specific areas can cause localized grid congestion. If the local distribution infrastructure is not adequately sized to handle the peak demand from EV charging, it can result in voltage fluctuations, increased line losses, and decreased power quality.
The ultimate goal of grid modernization involves using technology to get more information from the grid, so that we can make smarter, better decisions and operate more efficiently.
In this interview, Dan Roth from Dynamic Ratings explains that when it comes to SmartGrid projects, full integration of the digital technology solution into business operations is essential to drive business results.
How We Can Help
ConnectGrid™ IoT Platform
The Dynamic Ratings ConnectGrid™ Smart Infrastructure Solution (SIS) is an agile technology stack that enhances connectivity to grid edge assets for better management. The system is tailored to meet varying security, scalability and availability requirements and has many options available in architecture and communication technology.
Dynamic Ratings is a trusted advisor that helps you make the right decisions for your asset monitoring. We focus on our customer’s objectives and priorities and provide solution-based products that help utilities meet their goals, such as:
Reduced Maintenance
The advanced analytics within the monitoring system filters through the condition data to automatically identify issues requiring maintenance attention.
Risk Mitigation
With online condition-based data, users receive alarms when problems first arise, allowing early detection so that appropriate actions can be taken before problems escalate.