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Assessment of vehicle-grid integration profitability subject to real-world driver behavior and electricity tariff

Author

Listed:
  • Tayarani, Hanif
  • Rabinowitz, Aaron
  • Jenn, Alan
  • Tal, Gil

Abstract

The growing adoption of battery electric vehicles creates a need for optimized charging strategies that manage energy demand and charging costs. This study uses a dataset of 49,693 parking events and 11,271 charging sessions, which are collected from 50 vehicles, to investigate the impact of potential charging sessions on optimal VGI charging strategies within different utility territories in the United States, each with distinct pricing mechanisms. Our cost-benefit analysis shows that drivers can save between $3000 and $5000 annually in high-electricity price territories, while in low-price territories, savings can reach up to $400. However, if drivers keep their current charging behavior, they can save between $1500 and $3000 annually in high-price territories and around $200 in low-price territories. Beyond financial benefits, optimal strategies reduce emissions by shifting charging sessions to hours with more renewable generation, which reduces CO2eq by up to 2 tonnes per vehicle each year on average. These results demonstrate the importance of potential charging behavior and pricing structures to maximize economic benefits. Our findings suggest that policy measures are necessary to support such programs. This study helps guide charging infrastructure planning and supports updating battery warranties to account for battery degradation caused by VGI participation.

Suggested Citation

  • Tayarani, Hanif & Rabinowitz, Aaron & Jenn, Alan & Tal, Gil, 2025. "Assessment of vehicle-grid integration profitability subject to real-world driver behavior and electricity tariff," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 341(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:341:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225049448
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139302
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    References listed on IDEAS

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