As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to gain momentum, the need to integrate EV charging infrastructure into commercial buildings becomes increasingly important. Researchers Quan Nguyen, Christine Holland, and Siddharth Sridhar from the University of California, San Diego, have explored strategies to optimize this integration, focusing on both the sizing of infrastructure components and the coordination of energy management. Their work, published in the journal Applied Energy, provides practical insights for the energy sector.
The researchers addressed two key aspects of EV charging infrastructure in commercial buildings: optimal sizing of service transformers and battery energy storage systems (BESS), and optimized coordination between EV charging, BESS operation, and building demand. They applied these strategies to a school campus setting, which included both building loads and EV charging loads from buses and vans. This setting served as a practical example of energy management in commercial buildings with EV fleets.
To determine the optimal sizing of the service transformer and BESS, as well as the optimal control of EV charging and BESS charge/discharge schedules, the researchers employed a rolling-window optimization approach. This method allowed them to make decisions based on the most recent data available, ensuring that the system could adapt to changing conditions over time. The design and control strategies were validated over a 20-year time horizon, with an annually increasing number of EVs, to assess their long-term viability.
The economic analysis conducted by the researchers revealed the costs and benefits of each design as a medium- and long-term investment. This information is crucial for stakeholders in the energy sector, as it provides a clear picture of the financial implications of integrating EV charging infrastructure into commercial buildings. The study highlights the potential for cost savings and improved energy management through strategic planning and optimization.
The practical applications of this research are significant for the energy industry. By optimizing the sizing of service transformers and BESS, as well as coordinating EV charging and BESS operation, commercial buildings can support the growing demand for EV charging without necessitating extensive grid upgrades. This not only reduces the financial burden on building owners and operators but also contributes to the overall stability and reliability of the power grid. Furthermore, the economic analysis provides valuable insights for decision-makers, enabling them to make informed choices about the integration of EV charging infrastructure.
In conclusion, the work of Nguyen, Holland, and Sridhar offers a comprehensive approach to designing and optimizing EV charging infrastructure in commercial buildings. Their findings, published in Applied Energy, provide a roadmap for the energy sector to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. By implementing these strategies, stakeholders can ensure reliable power delivery, economic operation, and sustainable energy management.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.