EVSE Adapter Module for Grid-Responsive Load Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle charging can create peak loads on the grid, leading to high energy costs and increased utility investments, as unmanaged charging aggregates EV batteries, limiting their regulatory service revenue potential due to limited demand and modulation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A separate module within the EVSE controls additional loads, such as hot water heaters, by using grid request signals to modulate power delivery, combining power measurements for reporting and revenue confirmation, and utilizing existing power-regulating means similar to those in EVSEs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If uncontrolled EV charging is implemented, then EVs can be recharged whenever needed, but peak load on the electric grid increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts EV charging rates based on real-time grid conditions and demand signals. The EVSE controller modulates power delivery to the EV battery charger according to grid demand, transforming static uncontrolled charging into dynamic demand-responsive charging that balances availability with grid load management
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic demand response cycles where EV charging is modulated according to grid demand patterns. During peak demand periods, charging is reduced or paused; during off-peak periods, charging intensity increases. This periodic action distributes the total charging load across different time periods, preventing peak load aggregation
2Quantity of substance
If EV charging load is aggregated for demand response, then ancillary service revenue potential increases, but the number of controlled loads is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE adapter module serves multiple functions: it controls EV battery charging, manages additional household loads (water heater, HVAC, etc.), communicates with the RTO/ISO for demand response signals, and aggregates power measurements from multiple sources. This multi-functionality transforms a single-purpose EV charger into a universal load management platform that can control diverse load types
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges EV charging control with control of additional household loads through a single EVSE adapter module. The adapter aggregates power measurements from both the EV charger and controlled household loads, then transmits combined data to the RTO/ISO. This consolidation allows multiple load types to be managed as a unified demand response resource
3Quantity of substance
If additional household loads are controlled through EVSE, then controlled demand and revenue potential increase, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE adapter module acts as an intermediary device that interfaces between the power distribution panel and multiple loads (EV charger and household loads). It receives demand response signals from the RTO/ISO, translates them into appropriate control actions for each load, and aggregates power measurements. This intermediary approach simplifies control architecture compared to implementing separate control systems for each load
Data Source
AI summary
This invention enables Electric Vehicle Service Equipments to control external electrical loads, such as water heaters. The parallel electric energy demand of the external load augments the remotely controllable energy demand for charging the vehicle creating a larger controllable demand than for charging the vehicle only. This larger demand is useful in responding to requests for ancillary service from the grid and can increase the revenue for regulation services.