Abstract:
The increasing depletion of fossil fuels and the increasing concern for the environment
have made electric vehicles (EVs) a growing trend in Pakistan. As a result, EV charging
station infrastructure is in high demand. However, the country’s energy grid
infrastructure is not up to date to handle the increasing number of EVs. Thus, electricity
drawn from the grid cannot meet all power requirements for such purposes only.
Accordingly, integrating photovoltaics (PV) and grid supply will ensure a stable and
reliable source of power for EV charging.
This study proposes solar-based grid-tied charging stations (SGTCS) in Pakistan under
different climatic zones that seek to optimize electric vehicle (EV) charging by
incorporating scheduling techniques designed to maximize the utilization of
photovoltaic (PV) power. This model also takes into account climate impacts on power
generation across various geographical regions. The SGTCS were implemented using
HOMER Grid with case studies undertaken at four city sites across four climatic zones:
Skardu, Quetta, Lahore, Karachi and Mithi. The analysis comprised yearly cost
estimation; costs related to energy consumption; EV schedule management; reduction
of main grid electricity use; and finally impact assessment about environmental
changes. The resulting techno-economic implications demonstrate the relevance and
applicability of the proposed study.
