Green Mobility Infrastructure: A Techno-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Wind–Solar PV Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles in Germany

This study is about a techno-economic assessment of stand-alone, battery-buffered e-vehicle charging stations incorporating solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine (WT) energy systems in four major German cities: Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, and Munich. Using modeling and simulation techniques, the study evaluates optimal configurations to meet daily charging demands while considering urban environments and spatial heterogeneity in meteorological conditions. Results indicate that hybrid PV/WT/battery systems are the preferred choice for renewable energy charging stations in Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich as they are able to minimize net present cost (NPC) and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) while meeting daily charging demand and environmental targets. In Cologne, in contrast, due to higher wind availability, WT/battery systems emerge as the most cost-effective option. Sensitivity analysis shows the impact of load and storage capacity on economic metrics such as NPC and LCOE, with NPC values ranging from €524,836 to €1,640,000 across various load scenarios considered. The findings demonstrate the potential for enhancing economic feasibility via solar tracking systems, increased wind turbine hub heights, and offshore wind deployment. This study provides actionable insights for integrating renewable energy into EV charging infrastructure, thus contributing to Germany’s decarbonization and energy transition efforts.