Innovative solution from North Rhine-Westphalia for stabilizing the power grid through decentralized charging intelligence
The increasing prevalence of electric vehicles presents new challenges for power grids. Particularly in residential areas, the simultaneous charging of multiple vehicles can lead to grid overload. To counteract this, researchers at TH Cologne, led by Prof. Dr. Eberhard Waffenschmidt and Prof. Dr. Ingo Stadler from the Cologne Institute for Renewable Energy (CIRE), have developed an innovative solution: an algorithm that coordinates charging processes in a grid-friendly and decentralized manner.
The application is based on the swarm principle and uses measurement data from existing charging stations to determine the current grid status. Without central control or additional hardware, the algorithm distributes the available charging power while taking user preferences into account. This ensures that the voltage in the grid remains within permissible limits and that cables and transformers are not overloaded.
A distribution network with simulated households and wallboxes was set up in the lab to test the functionality. The algorithm uses electrical measurements and standard load profiles to optimally distribute available network capacity among the vehicles being charged. Users can define individual charging goals and time windows.
A follow-up project envisions the addition of an energy management system that also incorporates other controllable consumers such as heat pumps. A field test with a grid operator is also planned.
The “GridMaximizer” project was carried out over 18 months and was funded with over 800,000 euros by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership Joint Undertaking.
Source: www.portal.nmwp.de
