Grid challenges of heavy-good electric vehicles megawatt charging

Demand for battery electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) has seen rapid growth in recent years. Some companies have taken incentives to adopt this new form of technology for transporting goods. However, there are multiple challenges related to the charging infrastructure for eHGVs. A modelling study involving services located along the M4 motorway in South Wales was performed to assess the capabilities of grid assets to support the newly developed Megawatt Charging System (MCS) eHGVs charging. The comprehensive power system simulation suite IPSA was used for a modelling study of the worst-case scenario of uncontrolled charging of eHGVs. Different uptake levels of eHGVs were considered for the years 2025 and 2030 based on the local traffic. The charging load was then estimated for a 45-minute and 15-minute duration. Distributed generation connection was considered for one service location to demonstrate whether the impact on the grid can be reduced to a more manageable level. Four charging scenarios split between the years 2025 and 2030 demonstrated that the distribution networks which provide the three locations require infrastructure upgrades or installation of distribution generation along with battery storage to mitigate these impacts.