Renewable Energy Powered Electrical Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Configurations – Review

Abstract

At present, the limited existence of fossil fuels and the environmental issues over greenhouse gas emissions have been directly affected by the transition from conventional vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). The electrification of transportation systems and the growing demand for EVs have prompted recent researchers to investigate the possible solution for electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs). However, there are numerous challenges faced when implementing EVs at large scale including stability issues in the grid. Therefore, it is necessary to balance electricity production and EV charging to guarantee and preserve secure constant grid operation. The problem with EVs in most developing countries is that they can disturb the demand side and overload the grid which is already unstable in most developing countries. Hence, to address the above challenges considering also stochastic and variable nature of renewable energy sources and loads, this paper presents a comprehensive review of EV charging infrastructures (EVCI) that could ensure optimum operation and enhance grid support. It has been found that networked EVCIs are expected to offer technical and economic benefits to charging station owners, customers, grid/utility, and other stakeholders. An overview of power management strategy in EVCIs with renewable energy resources integration, energy storage, energy management system, energy trading, control, modes of operation, and artificial intelligence as energy coordination in EVCI for optimal reliability has been evaluated.