Work

Zone substations' readiness to embrace electric vehicle adoption: Brisbane case study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study proposes a methodology to quantify the impact of electric vehicle (EV) adoption on distribution zone substations, focusing on varying adoption levels and charging patterns. Using real-world data from South East Queensland, substation capacity is evaluated under emergency cyclic capacity (ECC) limits, considering one equipment down (n-1) conditions and scenarios with all equipment operational. Typical daily EV charging patterns and rare high-demand events, such as simultaneous EV charging, are analysed to identify potential overload risks. Results show that 78–93% of substations can accommodate 100% EV fleet penetration under normal conditions, while the remainder require further evaluation to assess compliance with technical standards. This methodology provides a comprehensive framework for understanding substation resilience, emphasising the need to consider both typical and exceptional EV charging behaviours. The findings highlight critical areas for detailed analysis to ensure network reliability under increasing EV adoption and evolving charging demands.

Source: Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135519

Authors: Abel Quintero Fuentes, Mark Hickman, Jake Whitehead

Institutions: The University of Queensland, The University of Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,260