Nigerian Distribution Network Feeder Impact Assessment with Integration of Electric Vehicles

Electric Vehicle (EV) charging is classified into two major categories, depending on the type of chargers used. These are referred to as Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) chargers. EVs' batteries are charged by an external source of electricity, such as the grid. Achieving the required charging voltage, charging current, and the charging power for the EV batteries requires power electronic interfaced technologies. AC charging requires an AC to DC converter, which is usually performed within the vehicle itself. DC charging, on the other hand, utilises an off-board converter to get DC power. The dynamic behaviour of power systems has changed drastically due to the increased usage of power electronic interfaced technologies. This paper presents different EV integration scenarios into a Nigerian distribution network feeder that serves both residential and commercial customers. The PSCADIEMTDC simulation software is used to investigate the impacts of different charger topologies from a grid perspective. The sizing of an appropriate filter is also proposed to help mitigate harmonic distortion introduced by various battery chargers in the network. The paper results bolster confidence in the ability of EVs and associated charging methods to be incorporated in different nations’ distribution network feeders via appropriate technologies while maintaining grid safety and reliability.