Power quality requirements for electric vehicle chargers: Bulk power system perspective

Abstract

End-use load composition is rapidly changing, particularly towards electronically-coupled or inverter-based load. In particularly, the proliferation of electric vehicles (EV) is expected to continue as consumer prices decrease and charging capability expands. The electric power grid has experienced disruptive technologies since its inception, and it is imperative to study potential future impacts in order to prepare for them if they do occur. This paper highlights fundamental load response of EV chargers, and proposes a set of requirements that are deemed “grid-friendly” to the overall stability and control of the bulk power system at the interconnection-level. Loads exhibiting at least constant current characteristic (constant impedance are very much desirable if possible) with ride-through and reconnection capability will ensure long-term reliability of the grid. The goal is to outline these grid-level requirements in an effort to collaborate with the manufacturing community for sustained grid support from the end-use loads.