Methodical approach for analyzing the impact of a mass introduction of electric vehicles on the electricity networks in Europe

Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles (EV, PHEV) have the potential to contribute significantly to solving contemporary and future environmental and economic challenges of mobility. Different EU member states are currently addressing the subject in an isolated manner. The G4V consortium consisting of major European electric utilities and distinguished academic institutions are now adopting a holistic European approach to analyze the impact of a mass introduction in detail in order to optimize the grid infrastructure and make use of the inherent opportunities this represents for the operation of smart grids and energy efficiency. This paper will present a new probabilistic approach that was used to calculate the effects of electric vehicles on a large basis of European distribution grids. Simulation results will confirm the necessity of the chosen approach.