Assessment of Electric Vehicle Charging Scenarios Based on Demographical Data

A massive introduction of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) in the transportation sector would likely increase the total electricity consumption. Depending on how and when the PEVs are charged, the effects on the power demand will vary. Previous studies have shown that uncontrolled charge of PEVs can cause problems for the distribution system in some areas. This paper proposes an approach to control PEVs charging based on the charging behavior estimated from the demographical statistical data. In this approach, three different charge strategies are designed and the impacts of PEVs charging on the distribution system is assess using standard load flow calculations. A case study using the proposed approach examines the real situation in Gothenburg, a city on the west coast of Sweden. The results from the study show that the impacts on the distribution system due to PEVs vary between different areas. By controlling the charging, the impacts can be reduced but the choice of control methods must be chosen carefully. Furthermore, the results indicate that a well-developed public charging infrastructure could reduce the stress on the residential distribution systems since part of the charging can be done in commercial areas.