Generation capacity extension in the power system with large-scale PHEV integration

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) predicts approximately a 60% penetration level of PHEV fleets throughout the U.S. by 2050. Increasing the number of PHEVs jeopardizes the reliable operation of the power system. Random, excessive power demands from PHEVs can put noticeable stress on the bulk power system, which accordingly causes congestions, overloads and cascaded outages. This paper proposes an approach that assesses how much generation expansion is required to maintain the reliability of the power system in the presence of PHEVs. To evaluate the impact of PHEVs on the reliability of the system, a time-based simulation has been performed. In addition, based on vehicle data and the domestic load profile in the North West Power Pool area (NWPP), reliability indices have been calculated. The results show that the existing power system infrastructure is not robust enough for higher penetration levels.