Towards a Sustainable Future: The Role of Electric Vehicles and Smart Grids in the Energy Transition

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Energy Science and Technology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 June 2024 | Viewed by 108671

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC 11 V8P 5C2, Canada
Interests: IoT-enabled smart grids; demand response programs (DRPs); energy markets; electric vehicle (EV) integration; GHGs reduction; AI & machine learning techniques
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
1. School of Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
2. Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila 47050, Pakistan
Interests: smart grids; demand response; microgrids; distributed generations; AI & machine learning techniques in power system
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO 65409, USA
Interests: coordination control strategies; virtual synchronous generators (VSGs); control of renewable energy sources (RESs), adaptive control techniques, and data-driven (artificial intelligence and machine learning) control techniques in power systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) and smart grids has the potential to revolutionize the way we produce, distribute, and consume energy. This Special Issue of the Journal of Applied Sciences on "Towards a Sustainable Future: The Role of Electric Vehicles and Smart Grids in the Energy Transition" aims to bring together the latest research and developments in the field, with a particular focus on addressing the green challenges of our energy system. The topics covered in this Special Issue include, but are not limited to:

  • Grid integration and management of renewable energy sources;
  • Battery technology and charging infrastructure;
  • Vehicle-to-grid (V2G), vehicle-to-home (V2H), and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) technologies;
  • Smart mobility and electrified transportation systems;
  • Energy policy and regulation of EVs in smart grids;
  • Cybersecurity challenges for EVs integration in smart grids;
  • Standards and interoperability of EV infrastructure systems.

Grid integration and the management of renewable energy sources are critical topics for addressing the challenge of the intermittency of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Battery technology and charging infrastructure are key components of EVs, and research in this area focuses on improving their performance, reliability, and safety. Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies allow a bi-directional power flow between EVs and the smart grid, enabling new business models and revenue streams for EV owners. Smart mobility and transportation systems aim to optimize the use of EVs and public transportation, reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality in urban areas. Energy policy and the regulation of EVs in smart grids are critical topics for successfully integrating EVs into the energy system. Cybersecurity challenges for EVs integration in smart grids cannot be ignored as EVs become more connected and integrated with the smart grid. The standards and interoperability of EV infrastructure systems aim to provide a unified framework for the seamless integration of EVs and smart grids.

The Special Issue invites original research articles, review papers, and short communications presenting state-of-the-art research, new methodologies, and innovative solutions to advance the field. All submissions will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality and relevance of the research presented. We expect this Special Issue to become a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and practitioners to share their latest findings and contribute to advancing the field.

Dr. Arman Goudarzi
Dr. Muhammad Waseem
Dr. Shah Fahad
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • V2X (V2G, V2H, and V2V) systems
  • application of power electronics in EV integration
  • demand response and energy management
  • cybersecurity strategies in EV ecosystem
  • EV charging infrastructure and network planning

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 4393 KiB  
Article
Impact of the Integration of the Electric Vehicle on Low-Voltage Rural Networks
by María Paz Comech, José F. Sanz-Osorio, Julio J. Melero and Oscar García-Izquierdo
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 2638; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14062638 - 21 Mar 2024
Viewed by 466
Abstract
The electric vehicle deployment, due to the plans defined according to the energy transition objectives, produces new challenges for the electrical system. These challenges are associated with the charging infrastructure of these vehicles since they require a high current during specific periods, which [...] Read more.
The electric vehicle deployment, due to the plans defined according to the energy transition objectives, produces new challenges for the electrical system. These challenges are associated with the charging infrastructure of these vehicles since they require a high current during specific periods, which can increase losses in the network, overload the lines, or cause voltage drops that affect the system’s stability. To solve these challenges, one of the possible solutions is the investment in new network infrastructure to face the increase in demand, such as the construction of new transformation centers or new medium and low-voltage lines. However, in the case of rural networks with a small number of users, these investments may not be viable. This article analyzes the possible impacts of connecting electric vehicles in a rural low-voltage network located in a Spanish municipality, as well as possible implementable solutions that do not require investment in new infrastructure. The number of connected vehicles has been calculated based on the national plan for 2030, and the network model used is based on actual data provided by the distribution company that operates in the area. Full article
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22 pages, 4663 KiB  
Article
Methodology for Energy Management in a Smart Microgrid Based on the Efficiency of Dispatchable Renewable Generation Sources and Distributed Storage Systems
by Oscar Izquierdo-Monge, Paula Peña-Carro, Angel Hernández-Jiménez, Angel Zorita-Lamadrid and Luis Hernández-Callejo
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 1946; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14051946 - 27 Feb 2024
Viewed by 590
Abstract
This paper presents a methodology for energy management in a smart microgrid based on the efficiency of dispatchable generation sources and storage systems, with three different aims: elimination of power peaks; optimisation of the operation and performance of the microgrid; and reduction of [...] Read more.
This paper presents a methodology for energy management in a smart microgrid based on the efficiency of dispatchable generation sources and storage systems, with three different aims: elimination of power peaks; optimisation of the operation and performance of the microgrid; and reduction of energy consumption from the distribution network. The methodology is based on four steps: identification of elements of the microgrid, monitoring of the elements, characterization of the efficiency of the elements, and finally, microgrid energy management. A specific use case is shown at CEDER-CIEMAT (Centro para el Desarrollo de las Energías Renovables—Centro de Investi-gaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas), where consumption has been reduced during high tariff periods and power peaks have been eliminated, allowing an annual reduction of more than 25,000 kWh per year, which is equal to savings of more than 8500 €. It also allows the power contracted from the distribution company by CEDER (135 kW) not to be exceeded, which avoids penalties in the electricity bill. Full article
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21 pages, 2025 KiB  
Article
Optimal Siting of EV Fleet Charging Station Considering EV Mobility and Microgrid Formation for Enhanced Grid Resilience
by Abhijith Ravi, Linquan Bai and Hong Wang
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(22), 12181; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132212181 - 09 Nov 2023
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Coordinating infrastructure planning for transportation and the power grid is essential for enhanced reliability and resilience during operation and disaster management. This paper presents a two-stage stochastic model to optimize the location of electric vehicle fleet charging stations (FEVCSs) to enhance the resilience [...] Read more.
Coordinating infrastructure planning for transportation and the power grid is essential for enhanced reliability and resilience during operation and disaster management. This paper presents a two-stage stochastic model to optimize the location of electric vehicle fleet charging stations (FEVCSs) to enhance the resilience of a distribution network. The first stage of this model deals with the decision to place an FEVCS at the most favorable and optimized location, whereas the second stage aims to minimize the weighted sum of the value of lost load in multiple potential scenarios with different faults. Indeed, the second stage is a joint grid restoration scheme with network reconfiguration and microgrid formation using available distributed generators and fleet electric vehicles. The proposed model is tested on a modified IEEE-33 node distribution network and a four-node transportation network. Case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. Full article
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28 pages, 4451 KiB  
Article
The Electric Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows, Partial Recharges, and Parcel Lockers
by Vincent F. Yu, Pham Tuan Anh and Yu-Wei Chen
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(16), 9190; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13169190 - 12 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1530
Abstract
This paper presents an extension of the Electric Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows and Partial Recharges (EVRPTW-PR), which incorporates the use of parcel lockers as a delivery method (i.e., self-pickup method). This variant, named the electric vehicle routing problem with time windows, [...] Read more.
This paper presents an extension of the Electric Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows and Partial Recharges (EVRPTW-PR), which incorporates the use of parcel lockers as a delivery method (i.e., self-pickup method). This variant, named the electric vehicle routing problem with time windows, partial recharges, and parcel lockers (EVRPTW-PR-PL), focuses on minimizing delivery costs by employing a homogeneous fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) and providing two delivery methods for serving customers: home delivery and self-pickup methods. We derive a mathematical formulation and propose an adaptive large neighborhood search (ALNS) algorithm to address EVRPTW-PR-PL. Moreover, in ALNS, the solution representation is constructed to handle the assignment of delivery methods. The performance of our proposed ALNS algorithm is evaluated by solving EVRPTW-PR benchmark instances. Finally, the results of EVRPTW-PR-PL obtained by using the GUROBI solver and our ALNS algorithm are provided, accompanied by managerial insights on the implementation of parcel lockers. Full article
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32 pages, 2743 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Distributed Non-Linear Voltage Regulation and Power Apportion Technique for an Islanded DC Microgrid
by Olanrewaju Lasabi, Andrew Swanson, Leigh Jarvis, Anuoluwapo Aluko and Matthew Brown
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(15), 8659; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13158659 - 27 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 913
Abstract
There is a growing focus on exploring direct current (DC) microgrids in traditional power grids. A key challenge in operating these microgrids is ensuring proper current distribution among converters. While conventional droop control has been used to address this issue, it requires compensating [...] Read more.
There is a growing focus on exploring direct current (DC) microgrids in traditional power grids. A key challenge in operating these microgrids is ensuring proper current distribution among converters. While conventional droop control has been used to address this issue, it requires compensating for voltage deviations in the DC bus. This paper introduces an innovative distributed secondary control approach that effectively addresses both voltage restoration and current sharing challenges within a standalone DC microgrid. The distributed secondary control proposed in this study is integrated into the microgrid’s cyber layer, enabling information sharing between controllers. This distributed approach ensures reliability, even in the event of partial communication connection failures. The controller employs a fuzzy logic control approach to dynamically determine the parameters of the secondary control, resulting in an enhanced control response. Additionally, the proposed approach can handle constant power and resistive loads without specific requirements. Employing the Lyapunov method, we have derived adequate stability conditions for the proposed controller. The performance of the controller has been assessed using MATLAB/Simulink® models and validated with real-time experimental testing performed with a SpeedgoatTM real-time machine, considering five different test cases. The results indicated that the proposed control system is robust in achieving its control objectives within a DC microgrid, exhibiting fast response and minimal oscillations. Full article
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23 pages, 2156 KiB  
Article
Electric Vehicles: Benefits, Challenges, and Potential Solutions for Widespread Adaptation
by Fayez Alanazi
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 6016; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13106016 - 13 May 2023
Cited by 46 | Viewed by 102985
Abstract
The world’s primary modes of transportation are facing two major problems: rising oil costs and increasing carbon emissions. As a result, electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity as they are independent of oil and do not produce greenhouse gases. However, despite their benefits, [...] Read more.
The world’s primary modes of transportation are facing two major problems: rising oil costs and increasing carbon emissions. As a result, electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity as they are independent of oil and do not produce greenhouse gases. However, despite their benefits, several operational issues still need to be addressed for EV adoption to become widespread. This research delves into the evolution of EVs over time and highlights their benefits, including reducing carbon emissions and air pollution. It also explores the challenges and difficulties faced in their adoption, such as the high cost of infrastructure, scarcity of charging stations, limited range or range anxiety, and the performance of batteries. To overcome these challenges, potential solutions include enhancing the charging infrastructure, increasing the number of charging stations, using battery swapping techniques, and improving battery technology to address range anxiety and reduce charging times. Governments can incentivize consumers to purchase EVs through tax credits or subsidies and invest in building a robust charging infrastructure. Industry stakeholders can collaborate with governments to address these challenges and promote the adoption of EVs, which can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and air pollution. Full article
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