Impact assessment of varying penetrations of electric vehicles on low voltage distribution systems

Advances in the development of electric vehicles, along with policy incentives will see a wider uptake of this technology in the transport sector in future years. However, the widespread implementation of electric vehicles could lead to adverse effects on power system networks, especially existing distribution networks. This work investigates some of the potential impacts from various levels of uncontrolled electric vehicle charging on a test distribution network. The network is examined under worst case scenario conditions for residential electricity demand in an effort to assess the full impact from electric vehicles. The results demonstrate that even for relatively modest levels of electric vehicle charging, both the voltage and thermal loading levels can exceed safe operating limits. The results also indicate the importance of assessing each phase on the network separately in order to capture the full effects of uncontrolled electric vehicle charging on the network.