An Optimization-Based Reliability Enhancement Scheme for Active Distribution Systems Utilizing Electric Vehicles

Unanticipated faults can hinder the operation of the utility grid, consumers, and businesses. This study aims to ensure the continued power supply to the consumers during outages and peak hours from the stored energy in the batteries of electric vehicles (EVs). Considering the bi-directional charging feature, the energy capacity model of the EV-batteries in a centralized parking lot (PL) and distributed EVs is developed. Various factors that affect the energy capacity of EVs are considered and modeled. The optimal location of PL and charging/discharging time and rate are found for reliability improvement, losses reduction, and voltage regulation of the distribution system. The problem is formulated as a mixed-integer multi-objective optimization problem. The first objective function is formulated to maximize the energy output from the EVs-batteries during blackouts or to minimize the energy not supplied (ENS) to the consumers, whereas the second objective function minimizes the losses of the distribution system. Moreover, an IEEE 37 Node-Test Feeder and seven test cases are considered for this study. Simulation results show that PL of EVs could be employed as a power source during the islanded and grid-connected mode for improvement of reliability in the power systems.