An optimization model for the integration of electric vehicles and smart grids: Problem definition and experimental validation

Smart grids play a significant role for the sustainable use of energy in smart cities. It is necessary to develop new technologies and tools for energy management in which different components should be integrated: renewable resources, distributed generation, storage systems, active loads, and plug-in electric vehicles. In this paper, attention is focused on the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) in smart grids and, specifically, on an optimization-based architecture to minimize costs and including charging stations and electric vehicles. Two technologies have been considered in this work: the Smart Charging and the Vehicle to Grid (V2G). The aim of this paper is to investigate on the integration of electric vehicles in the smart grids and to prove that they can help in sustaining the grid processes when parked and so playing in costs minimization. The developed decision model is applied to the Savona Campus Smart Poly-generation Micro-grid (SPM) that is used in this case as an emulator of grids at the district level. Then, obtained results for EVs charging have been tested in the research facilities of Enel Distribuzione.