Application of Reinforcement Learning for EVs Charging Management in Low-Voltage Grids: A Case of Voltage Regulation

The rapid proliferation of uncontrolled resources poses significant voltage regulation challenges in low-voltage (LV) distribution grids. In this condition, conventional charging strategies, often based on fixed or static schedules, may lead to adverse voltage deviations under unpredictable load conditions and variable renewable generation. To address these challenges, this paper studies a hybrid deep reinforcement learning (DRL) framework based on a Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) policy network enriched by a Graph Convolution Variation (GCV) feature extractor to improve voltage regulation issues in LV grids. In addition to ensuring that electric vehicles (EVs) achieve their required state-of-charge (SoC), the framework dynamically adjusts charging rates in real time to maintain LV-grid voltage within acceptable limits. Extensive simulation results, including detailed analysis and comparisons with the static charging method, demonstrate significant improvements in voltage regulation, and enhanced overall grid performance. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of controlling EVs' charging controls in an intelligent manner to address the voltage regulation issue in low-voltage grids.