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Autonomous Control of Electric Vehicles Using Voltage Droop

Author

Listed:
  • Hanchi Zhang

    (Department of Energy, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark)

  • Rakesh Sinha

    (Department of Energy, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark)

  • Hessam Golmohamadi

    (Department of Energy, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark)

  • Sanjay K. Chaudhary

    (Department of Energy, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark)

  • Birgitte Bak-Jensen

    (Department of Energy, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark)

Abstract

The surge in electric vehicles (EVs) in Denmark challenges the country’s residential low-voltage (LV) distribution system. In particular, it increases the demand for home EV charging significantly and possibly overloads the LV grid. This study analyzes the impact of EV charging integration on Denmark’s residential distribution networks. A residential grid comprising 67 households powered by a 630 kVA transformer is studied using DiGSILENT PowerFactory. With the assumption of simultaneous charging of all EVs, the transformer can be heavily loaded up to 147.2%. Thus, a voltage-droop based autonomous control approach is adopted, where the EV charging power is dynamically adjusted based on the point-of-connection voltage of each charger instead of the fixed rated power. This strategy eliminates overloading of the transformers and cables, ensuring they operate within a pre-set limit of 80%. Voltage drops are mitigated within the acceptable safety range of ±10% from normal voltage. These results highlight the effectiveness of the droop control strategy in managing EV charging power. Finally, it exemplifies the benefits of intelligent EV charging systems in Horizon 2020 EU Projects like SERENE and SUSTENANCE. The findings underscore the necessity to integrate smart control mechanisms, consider reinforcing grids, and promote active consumer participation to meet the rising demand for a low-carbon future.

Suggested Citation

  • Hanchi Zhang & Rakesh Sinha & Hessam Golmohamadi & Sanjay K. Chaudhary & Birgitte Bak-Jensen, 2025. "Autonomous Control of Electric Vehicles Using Voltage Droop," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-16, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:11:p:2824-:d:1667144
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nagel, Niels Oliver & Jåstad, Eirik Ogner & Martinsen, Thomas, 2024. "The grid benefits of vehicle-to-grid in Norway and Denmark: An analysis of home- and public parking potentials," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 293(C).
    2. Rakesh Sinha & Sanjay K. Chaudhary & Birgitte Bak-Jensen & Hessam Golmohamadi, 2024. "Smart Operation Control of Power and Heat Demands in Active Distribution Grids Leveraging Energy Flexibility," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-28, June.
    3. Muhandiram Arachchige Subodha Tharangi Ireshika & Ruben Lliuyacc-Blas & Peter Kepplinger, 2021. "Voltage-Based Droop Control of Electric Vehicles in Distribution Grids under Different Charging Power Levels," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(13), pages 1-12, June.
    4. Brinkel, N.B.G. & Schram, W.L. & AlSkaif, T.A. & Lampropoulos, I. & van Sark, W.G.J.H.M., 2020. "Should we reinforce the grid? Cost and emission optimization of electric vehicle charging under different transformer limits," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 276(C).
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