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

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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
    The Foundation for Innovation and Research—Malta (FiR.mt), BKR 4011 Birkirkara, Malta)

  • Yesbol Gabdullin

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

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Brian Azzopardi & Yesbol Gabdullin, 2024. "Impacts of Electric Vehicles Charging in Low-Voltage Distribution Networks: A Case Study in Malta," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-18, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:2:p:289-:d:1314255
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Crozier, Constance & Morstyn, Thomas & McCulloch, Malcolm, 2020. "The opportunity for smart charging to mitigate the impact of electric vehicles on transmission and distribution systems," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 268(C).
    2. Rahman, Syed & Khan, Irfan Ahmed & Khan, Ashraf Ali & Mallik, Ayan & Nadeem, Muhammad Faisal, 2022. "Comprehensive review & impact analysis of integrating projected electric vehicle charging load to the existing low voltage distribution system," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 153(C).
    3. Crozier, Constance & Morstyn, Thomas & Deakin, Matthew & McCulloch, Malcolm, 2020. "The case for Bi-directional charging of electric vehicles in low voltage distribution networks," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 259(C).
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