Impacts of Electric Vehicles Charging in Low-Voltage Distribution Networks: A Case Study in Malta

Brian Azzopardi () and Yesbol Gabdullin
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Brian Azzopardi: MCAST Energy Research Group, Institute for Engineering and Transport, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), PLA 9032 Paola, Malta
Yesbol Gabdullin: MCAST Energy Research Group, Institute for Engineering and Transport, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), PLA 9032 Paola, Malta

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-18

Abstract: A high penetration of electric vehicle (EV) charging in low voltage (LV) networks can challenge grid stability due to voltage variations and limited feeder capacity. This research paper examines the integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging in real-life residential low voltage (LV) networks in Malta. The study utilizes smart metering data and presents a methodology framework and tools to analyze the impacts of EV charging on grid stability. The likelihood of challenges in the LV network is assessed by conducting simulations and deriving cumulative distribution functions (CDFs). The study also evaluates the impact of EV charging on the occurrence of network challenges and identifies predominant issues through multi-feeder analyses. Additionally, a regression analysis tool is developed to predict the impacts based on feeder characteristics. The results show strong relationships between feeder characteristics and EV charging processes, offering valuable insights for network planning and operations. However, it should be noted that the current EV charging penetration in the Maltese grid is below 1% in any LV feeder, suggesting the absence of significant technological hurdles at present.

Keywords: electric vehicle (EV); low voltage (LV) networks; stochastic processes; Monte Carlo methods; optimal power flow (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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