Managed Charging and Distribution Impacts of EV Charging

This white paper discusses the distribution challenges posed by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the role of managed charging in addressing these issues. It outlines the expected rise in EV numbers, with projections indicating that by 2030, nearly 10 percent of light-duty vehicles in the U.S. could be electric. The paper details how the aging distribution infrastructure is less equipped to handle the substantial electricity demand from EV charging compared to the bulk grid, which can manage the overall energy supply. It highlights the potential for managed charging to mitigate the need for costly infrastructure upgrades by optimizing charging patterns. The document also explains the differences in load impacts between small and large groups of EVs, emphasizing the importance of managing charging loads to prevent overloading distribution transformers. Additionally, it addresses the implications of time-of-use rates and the risks they pose to service transformers, advocating for managed charging solutions as a means to enhance grid reliability and reduce costs.