A hardware prototype model for electric vehicle load management in a distribution network

This paper presents the design of a load management device for the load management of a distribution network in presence of Electric Vehicles (EV). With a projected EV penetration of up to 50% by 2050, the life expectancy of already overloaded utility transformers and other network assets needs to be investigated to accommodate large penetration of EV loads. This research work has been done in collaboration with the local utility London Hydro, to create a device that is capable of handling heavy residential loads, and providing network control of loads, such as, EVs to increase better network asset management. Two Atmel microcontroller based hardware boards are used. One hardware board is used to get load information from the utility transformer whereas the other is used to control the EV loads and household appliances. Based on the load information from the transformer, one microcontroller sends control signal to the other controller running on customer premises to switch ON/OFF the EV load or any other appliances thus controlling the load on the network. The main purpose of this device is to automatically reallocate loads in an attempt to prevent damage to overhead residential transformers due to overloading and also offers the capability of reducing consumer energy use. This device when installed in a utility network will reduce cost to the home owner, and will increase network sustainability.