Practical approach for assessing the impacts of electric vehicles on low-voltage distribution systems
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The increasing penetration of electric vehicles has been driven by global decarbonization efforts and policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Despite these benefits, the large-scale integration of electric vehicle charging poses significant challenges to low-voltage distribution networks, particularly under uncoordinated charging conditions. This dissertation investigates the impacts of electric vehicle charging on a low-voltage distribution network through quasi-dynamic power flow simulations performed in the DigSILENT PowerFactory software. A representative lowvoltage system was modeled, and real charging profiles obtained from residential users were applied under different electric vehicle penetration scenarios. The analysis focuses on key performance indicators, including transformer loading, voltage levels, zero-sequence current, and phase current unbalance. The results indicate that increasing electric vehicle penetration leads to a substantial rise in network stress, with transformer loading reaching up to 170% of its rated capacity and current unbalance factors attaining values of up to 70% in certain line segments. These findings demonstrate that, without charging control strategies, the hosting capacity of low-voltage distribution networks is limited by power quality degradation and potential equipment overload, highlighting the need for mitigation measures and smart charging solutions to ensure the reliable and sustainable integration of electric vehicles.
Author: Patzsch, Fernanda Leticia
Language: Portuguese
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7161930300