By 2030, it is estimated that over 25 million electric vehicles (EVs) will be operating in the U.S. As the number of EVs in the U.S. increases, there will be additional demand for electricity which will impact the electrical grid. Entities and individuals who manage, use, or deploy electric vehicle chargers can use the following strategies to lower costs, improve air quality, and minimize negative impacts on the electric grid, increasing the grid’s resiliency.
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Technology evaluates available energy and current energy demand to identify optimal charging times to avoid demand charges and minimize grid impact. See below for additional information on Managed Charging.
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Comparison of EV Smart Charging Strategies from Multiple Stakeholders' Perception
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Tailored Choice Architecture Design Can Increase Preferences for EV Smart Charging
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Tesla asks Texans to avoid charging their EVs during peak times because of the heatwave - The Verge
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Electric Vehicle Grid Impacts | Transportation and Mobility Research | NREL
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Smart Charging for EV charging networks and Electric Vehicles - GreenFlux
Managed Charging
Microgrids
Operate either connected to the utility grid or independently as a local grid. Often powered from renewable sources and combined with an energy storage system, microgrids can reduce demand during peak hours and provide power during grid events. See below for additional information on Microgrids.
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Energy Storage Systems
Store electricity for use during peak hours, provide backup during grid outages and can support a higher rate of charge. Batteries combined in an EV charging station is one type of energy storage system. See below for additional information on Energy Storage Systems.
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Solar Integration
Provides zero-emission charging, reduces demand charges, and can provide off-grid charging, especially in areas without grid reliability. See below for additional information on Solar Integration.
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Mobile Chargers
Allow for portable, on-demand EV charging without the need for infrastructure. See below for additional information on Mobile Chargers.
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