F. Najdawi, T. Jin, E. Fainman
Texas State University,
United States
Keywords: solar-based EV charging infrastructure, renewable energy integration, system reliability and sustainability, charging infrastructure planning
Summary:
This study investigates the economic and operational feasibility of solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure that enhances system reliability and promotes sustainability. With the rapid increase in private and commercial EV adoption, establishing a robust and cost-effective charging network is vital to meeting future energy demands. The study focuses on developing an integrated framework that identifies locations where solar-based EV charging infrastructure can sustain economically and improve system reliability. Problem Definition: The proposed framework evaluates solar radiation and EV adoption rates across various locations to identify optimal sites for solar-based charging infrastructure. These key performance metrics (KPIs) are essential for determining feasibility, ensuring that the system is both economically viable and capable of sustaining operational demands. The framework can be adapted for use in other regions to guide decision-making for sustainable EV charging infrastructure deployment. Reliability is examined through the system's ability to recover quickly from breakdowns or disruptions. The study introduces a novel approach that leverages EV batteries as distributed energy storage systems. In cases of inclement weather or reduced solar power generation, EV batteries can supply stored energy to maintain charging operations and support local energy needs. This bi-directional energy flow not only enhances charging infrastructure reliability but also provides a backup energy source for residents during emergencies, ensuring rapid recovery and minimal service disruption. Academic and Practical Relevance: The study introduces the concept of "levelized cost of system" to evaluate trade-offs between system availability and associated costs. It highlights how solar-based charging infrastructure can reduce energy costs, achieve net-zero environmental goals, and ensure grid stability. By leveraging EV batteries as distributed energy resources, the system achieves a dual benefit of enhancing reliability and supporting local energy needs during disruptions. These insights and frameworks can be applied to other regions, providing a scalable model for sustainable and reliable EV charging infrastructure worldwide. With this approach, the study addresses critical challenges in transitioning to clean energy, ensuring economic feasibility, environmental sustainability, and enhanced reliability of EV charging systems. Methodology: The study forecasts EV growth and charging demand across Texas through 2040, using population and EV adoption data. A web-based infrastructure planning tool, EVI-Pro Lite, estimates the required number of Level 2 and Level 3 DC fast chargers under various adoption scenarios. The infrastructure incorporates distributed renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to reduce dependency on the utility grid and achieve environmental sustainability and system reliability. Results: The study forecasts EV adoption scenarios ranging from 20% to 50% of light-duty vehicle registrations by 2040. Charging infrastructure development plans accommodate varying fleet sizes, with self-sustaining, zero-emission stations powered by solar and wind designed for each scenario. Using these projections, the study designs a charging infrastructure powered by renewable energy to meet regional demands. Additionally, the integration of EV batteries into the system ensures service continuity during adverse weather conditions, reducing downtime and enhancing system recovery. This adaptive resilience improves reliability and positions the infrastructure as a sustainable solution for future energy challenges.