Plug In, Turn On, and Load Up

PLUG-IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE (PEV) CHARGING IS GOING TO AFFECT BOTH ELECTRICITY distribution company local loads and independent system operator/regional transmission organization (ISO/RTO) regional loads. This conclusion was reached in a recent study jointly performed by Taratec and the ISO/RTO Council that projected electrical loads based on forecast concentrations of PEVs in the ISO/RTO regions once a significant overall deployment of PEVs exists. For the analysis, the team chose a national vehicle penetration level of 1 million vehicles, consistent with U.S. President Barack Obama's five-year target. From the viewpoint of the electric utility industry, it is important to understand both potential loads and the time frame available for preparation.