In a significant stride towards optimizing renewable energy utilization and reducing operational costs for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, researchers have developed an innovative strategy that integrates wind, solar, and storage systems with power-to-hydrogen conversion and demand response mechanisms. This breakthrough, published in the journal *Power Technology*, could reshape the future of EV charging infrastructure and renewable energy consumption.
The study, led by Cui Lu from the Key Laboratory of Advanced Perception and Intelligent Control of High-end Equipment at Anhui Polytechnic University, proposes an optimized operation strategy for wind-solar-storage integrated charging stations. The approach aims to meet the growing charging demands of new energy vehicles while maximizing the use of renewable energy sources.
At the heart of this strategy lies an optimized model for electricity pricing at charging stations, developed based on the Logistic function response mechanism. This model, solved using the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II), guides users to shift their charging loads reasonably. “By optimizing the electricity price and load distribution, we can significantly reduce the daily operational costs of charging stations,” Cui explained.
The researchers established an operational model that considers energy procurement costs, operational and maintenance expenses, and power balance constraints. This model, equipped with a power-to-hydrogen conversion device, aims to minimize daily operational costs. Simulation research conducted on the MATLAB platform revealed impressive results: daily operational costs were reduced by 34.74%, and the utilization rates of wind and solar power increased by 25.84% and 61.60%, respectively.
The implications of this research are profound for the energy sector. By implementing power-to-hydrogen conversion and demand response measures, charging stations can operate more efficiently and cost-effectively. This not only promotes the utilization of renewable energy but also supports the widespread adoption of new energy vehicles.
As the world transitions towards a greener future, innovations like this are crucial. They pave the way for more sustainable and economically viable energy solutions. The study’s findings, published in *Power Technology*, offer a promising path forward for the integration of renewable energy sources into the EV charging infrastructure.
This research could influence future developments in the field by encouraging the adoption of similar strategies in other regions and contexts. As Cui noted, “The potential for reducing operational costs and improving renewable energy utilization is substantial.” The study’s success highlights the importance of continued innovation and research in the energy sector, driving us closer to a sustainable and efficient energy future.