In a groundbreaking study published in the *Firat University Journal of Engineering Sciences*, researchers have developed an innovative energy management system for grid-connected parking facilities that integrate electric and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) with photovoltaic (PV) generation. The research, led by Ayşe Kübra Tatar from Yıldız Technical University, introduces a novel approach to optimizing energy use while minimizing operational costs and reducing carbon emissions through the strategic application of carbon taxes.
The study focuses on parking lots equipped to charge electric vehicles (EVs) and produce hydrogen for FCEVs via an electrolyzer. The system can draw energy from PV panels, an energy storage system (ESS), or the electrical grid, offering flexibility in meeting energy demands. By incorporating carbon taxation into the optimization framework, the research aims to lower emissions during both vehicle charging and hydrogen production.
Tatar and her team employed a mixed-integer linear programming model to solve the optimization problem, using the GAMS platform and the CPLEX solver. The results were impressive: a 21.63% reduction in carbon emissions and carbon tax costs, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. “Our approach not only reduces costs but also significantly cuts down on emissions, making it a win-win for both the environment and the energy sector,” Tatar explained.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. As the demand for EVs and FCEVs continues to grow, optimizing energy management in parking facilities will become increasingly critical. By leveraging renewable energy sources like PV generation and strategically managing grid electricity usage, businesses can achieve substantial cost savings while contributing to sustainability goals.
“This study highlights the potential for carbon taxes to drive innovation in energy management,” Tatar noted. “By aligning economic incentives with environmental benefits, we can accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more efficient energy future.”
The research published in the *Firat University Journal of Engineering Sciences* offers a blueprint for future developments in smart energy management, particularly in urban environments where parking facilities can serve as hubs for renewable energy integration. As cities worldwide strive to reduce their carbon footprints, the insights from this study could shape policies and practices in the energy sector, paving the way for a more sustainable future.