Design and optimal sizing of PV/grid-integrated EV charging stations at universities: A case study

Abstract

Energy-efficient electric vehicles (EVs) are being researched and developed in response to growing worries about worldwide warming and fossil fuel (FF) shortages. The number of EV charging stations is predicted to grow in the upcoming years due to rapid progress in automotive electrification. This case study displays the design and optimal sizing of PV/grid-integrated EV charging stations for use on a university campus. The economic assessment of implementing a PV/grid-integrated EV charging station on a university campus provides insight into its cost-effectiveness and practicality. This research includes a literature survey on the present state of various EV charging stations and different EV charging station types, technologies, and equipment. Furthermore, the evaluation and selection of grid-connected PV system components are supported by simulation software like MATLAB and Homer. The results also indicate that using a 100 kW PV/grid-integrated EV charging station is an attractive choice with an initial capital cost (ICC: $80,000 - $150,000). The payback period is 5–10 years depending on electricity savings and additional income by selling excess solar power to the grid. Annual CO 2 savings of 109.5 metric tons (based on daily energy generation of 600 kWh/day solar PV). The total daily EV energy demand is 300 kWh/day for 10 EVs at 30 kWh/charge. EVs charged with solar energy produce zero tailpipe emissions. Finally, highlight any conclusions, limitations, and further research and development recommendations. • Design of a 100 kW PV/grid-integrated EV charging station. • Dynamic energy management system with priority-based EV charging (fast, constant power, and trickle modes), and with SOC-based control. • Supports hybrid operation modes, including PV-dominant, ESS-assisted, grid-dependent, and optional Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). • Robust sensitivity analysis on PV penetration levels, battery capacity, and load variation. • Prototype developed and tested, including PV arrays, DC/DC boost converters, bidirectional converters, and inverters.