Understanding the effects and infrastrcuture needs of plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging

Abstract

Plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) are any vehicle that uses electricity to propel the vehicle, potentially in combination with other fuels like gasoline, diesel or hydrogen. PEV offer the benefits of reduced dependence on foreign oil and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. While the benefits are numerous for this new technology, the drawbacks are not fully understood. The largest concern for the utility company is to understand the necessary infrastructure requirements to minimize their impacts on the electric grid. This study focuses on the infrastructure needs and effects and how to best control PEV charging. The results of these analyses show the fundamental disconnect between the consumer and the utility company.