Solar Canopy EV Charging Control for Peak Demand Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Uncontrolled EV charging at workplaces can lead to increased peak demand on the electric grid, resulting in high-cost energy and demand charges, which can be mitigated by managing the charging process to align with solar energy availability and grid demands.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing solar canopies to generate and manage EV charging through a network of EVSEs, controlled via the Internet of Things, to optimize energy use, minimize demand charges, and provide ancillary services to the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If uncontrolled EV charging is implemented at workplaces, then EV charging availability is improved, but peak demand on the electric grid increases resulting in high-cost energy and demand charges
Solution Approach 1:
The EV charging system dynamically adjusts charging rates based on real-time solar energy availability and grid demand conditions. The controller modulates the charging power delivered to EVs, transitioning from static uncontrolled charging to dynamic adaptive charging that responds to changing energy sources and demand conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring solar energy generation, grid demand charges, and EV charging status. This feedback loop enables the controller to optimize charging rates, maximize solar energy utilization, and minimize demand charges by adjusting charging behavior based on real-time system state.
2Speed
If EV charging rate is increased to meet demand, then charging speed is improved, but demand charge spikes occur increasing energy costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic modulation of charging rates rather than continuous maximum power delivery. By cycling charging intensity according to solar availability and demand conditions, the system achieves adequate charging over time while avoiding peak demand spikes that trigger high demand charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the charging power parameter dynamically based on solar energy availability and grid demand conditions. Instead of maintaining a fixed high charging rate, the system adjusts the power parameter up or down to balance charging speed requirements with demand charge minimization.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If solar energy is used to power EV charging, then energy cost is reduced, but charging reliability decreases when solar availability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The EV charging system is designed to accept multiple energy sources - solar energy and grid electricity - making it multi-functional in terms of power supply. The controller seamlessly switches between or combines these sources, ensuring reliable charging operation regardless of solar availability while prioritizing solar energy to reduce costs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system efficiently utilizes solar energy for EV charging, reduces demand charges, and offers grid support services by modulating charging rates and power distribution, achieving a balanced energy supply and demand.
Implementation Method 1
solar canopies preferentially located over parking spaces... and capable of generating an amount of electrical energy equal to the needs of the electric vehicles parked under it on an annual basis
Data Source
AI summary
This invention embodies a system and a method for charging electric vehicles comprising, a solar canopy over selected parking spaces, and control equipment and software to maximize the use of solar energy, minimize demand charges and allow for ancillary services to the grid. The capacity of the solar canopy is such that it is capable of providing the energy needed to operate the vehicle both for commuting and for all other uses except for trips over 2-300 miles, as provided by the control software. The system can include features for allowing access only to authorized users, for measuring the amount of energy used by each, and for monthly billing.