Colloquia

Summary

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the Netherlands has presented significant challenges to the existing infrastructure, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of changing EV charging behavior to accommodate this growing demand. The cost and complexity of upgrading the grid infrastructure have posed substantial hurdles for Distribution System Operators (DSOs). This research explores the classification of EV charging behavior and its potential application in designing a grid capable of accommodating various EV user groups. Key characteristics or types of EV charging behavior are identified that have the most significant impact on the grid and provide flexibility to support network-aware charging or generate value for EV users. Therefore flexibility is determined by factors such as the amount of time charged and idle time, charged capacity, and session start time. Common types of classifications used in EV charging behavior analysis are analyzed, distinguishing between top-down and bottom-up approaches. While common top-down approaches rely on demographics and travel data, this research shows that historical charging data does not readily link to demographic characteristics, and thus a bottom-up approach, focusing on patterns in charging behavior, is more practical. The study explores how classifications can help relevant parties better understand and address challenges and opportunities in EV charging infrastructure. Identifying flexibility in charging behavior is crucial for grid design, especially in the context of grid congestion and costly upgrades. Smart charging solutions can be implemented when charging flexibility is high. The main research question of the thesis focuses on utilizing the classification of changing EV charging behavior to provide guidance to policymakers, DSOs, and other relevant parties in grid design. By classifying EV users based on flexibility, DSOs can identify critical moments when smart-charging solutions may fall short in mitigating grid congestion. Addressing the conflicting interests of Charging Point Operators (CPOs) and DSOs is essential to align network-aware charging with CPO interests. To distribute the value of flexibility fairly among EV users and CPOs, there needs to be a shared understanding of the significance of network-aware charging. It is recommended that ElaadNL adopt classification models based on flexibility and monitor trends in the relationship between urbanity and charging flexibility.