Dual use Electric Vehicle Infrastructure for Enhancing Grid Resilience and Urban Sustainability

The growing global adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has resulted in a spike in the number of EV charging stations. As EVs have become more and more popular worldwide, a large number of EV charging stations are opening up to accommodate their demands. During grid failures, an EV charging station can also serve as a flexible load connected to the grid to balance out voltage fluctuations. An EV charging station when powered using a separate source, such as solar or wind, can function as a powerhouse, bringing electricity to the grid when it's needed. Therefore, instead of installing more equipment to sustain voltage, the current EV charging station can be efficiently used to meet the grid's needs during failures. These stations have the potential to be dynamic, grid-connected assets for sustainable cities and communities in addition to their core function of vehicle charging (SDG 11). Because of their dual purpose, they can serve as adaptable loads that reduce voltage variations during grid outages, making it easier for people to obtain dependable electricity (SDG 7). By making use of the current EV infrastructure, a low-carbon energy transition is promoted, and resource efficiency (SDG 13- Climate Action) is supported, while lowering the demand for additional grid-support devices.