An approach to engage EVs for frequency regulation: Aggregator perspective

Abstract

As the penetration of renewable energy sources increases, availability of fast ramping resources for frequency regulations is vital. This need has been recognized by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) capable of fast charging with short battery reaction time are promising sources for ancillary services (AS). The highest revenue earning from AS by EVs is expected to be from the frequency regulation. Thus unidirectional V2G is a logical first step in V2G implementation for frequency regulation. In this paper we present first a methodology to estimate the operating cost, for an aggregator controlling several EVs, for AS. and then linear programming is then used to find condition to minimize the operating cost. Next, a novel framework is presented to calculate optimal bidding components of aggregator, regulation capacity and energy cost function to participate in regulation market. Simulations were done for a large number of EVs of different types and their usage patterns. Results clearly show the opportunities to generate revenues when aggregator participate in the regulation up/down services, while keeping an eye on the EV owner's level of comfort.