Electric Vehicles & the Grid - Synergy or Strain?

As the demand for electrical power has surged over recent years due to the increasing popularity of data centers for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Electric Vehicles (EVs), it is becoming evident that the aging electrical grid infrastructure is struggling to keep up. Some of the problems this aging infrastructure has resulted in include frequent blackouts due to weather related events, reduced efficiency resulting in higher maintenance costs and outdated communication systems causing poor monitoring and response times. Modernization of the grid in conjunction with integration of the transportation sector with the grid is essential to ensure the reliability and resiliency of the grid. Electric vehicles have dramatically increased in popularity, with most vehicle manufacturers offering at least one electric option in their lineups. Looking at recent developments in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, a new possibility becomes evident; instead of straining the power grid, the electric vehicle can synergize with it. This becomes possible when EVs can facilitate charging during off-peak (low demand) hours and supplying power back to the grid during on-peak (high demand) hours. There are quite a few challenges associated with this approach, lack of standardized charging infrastructure and higher install costs, regulatory and policy hurdles, gaps in technological know-how particularly in relation to impact of power supplied by EVs on grid and effect of V2G on EV battery degradation in the long run, to name a few. This paper reviews the current power demand and supply along with existing and projected power consumption metrics. We also discuss the V2G strategy to effectively manage load requirements, incentives that can be provided to facilitate the execution and the challenges associated with its widespread implementation. Finally we discuss a case study involving a vehicle that incorporates V2G capability and its implications.