As the world embraces renewable energy sources and electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, the strain on existing energy grids becomes a pressing concern. To ensure the efficient and sustainable use of energy, innovative solutions are required. In the German pilot of the Interconnect project, researchers have embarked on a mission to explore the concept of state-dependent electric vehicle charging. By dynamically adjusting the charging rate based on the condition of the energy grid, this approach aims to ensure grid stability while promoting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

 

Intelligent EV Charging in the German Pilot: 

In the Hamburg section of the German Pilot, experts from Fraunhofer IEE in collaboration with project leader KEO Interactive and other partners from EEBus, Stromnetze Hamburg and the University of Kassel, have taken the lead in testing intelligent EV charging. The primary objective is to regulate the charging rate of EVs based on the current state of the electrical grid. By implementing smart charging strategies, excessive load on the grid can be prevented, ensuring a stable and efficient energy supply.

 

The Role of Interconnect Knowledge Engine: 

At Fraunhofer IEE, the various components necessary for intelligent EV charging are seamlessly interconnected using the Interconnect Knowledge Engine. This sophisticated system enables efficient communication and data exchange between different entities involved in the project, allowing for real-time monitoring and decision-making.

 

Integration of EV Charging Stations in Hamburg: 

To conduct the experimental phase, five hotels in Hamburg were selected as testing grounds. These hotels were equipped with EV charging stations, provided by the project partner KEO Interactive. The charging stations were equipped with advanced hardware to measure and transmit power usage data for further analysis.

 

Measurement and Analysis: MGCP Values: 

The power usage data obtained from the charging stations, known as MGCP values, are collected and sent via the Interconnect Knowledge Engine to Fraunhofer IEE. This data serves as a crucial input for determining the grid’s state and analyzing its capacity.

 

Leveraging the beeDIP Platform: 

Fraunhofer IEE employs their advanced beeDIP [1]platform to connect to a grid calculation tool developed by the University of Kassel. The grid calculation tool utilizes the MGCP measurements from the charging stations, along with additional data about the electrical grid in Hamburg, to evaluate the grid’s load conditions. This evaluation is facilitated by the power of artificial intelligence, enabling swift and accurate assessments. See Figure 1 for further process details.

 

 

Limiting Charging Rates for Grid Stability: 

Based on the calculations performed by the grid calculation tool, if the electrical grid is deemed to be overburdened, a limit called the LPC is established. The LPC acts as a safeguard, ensuring that EV charging rates are adjusted to avoid straining the grid further. The LPC is then transmitted from the beeDIP platform to Fraunhofer IEE, subsequently reaching KEO Interactive and the participating hotels through the Interconnect Knowledge Engine.

 

Conclusion: 

The Hamburg Interconnect project serves as an exceptional example of leveraging cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary collaboration to address the challenges posed by the integration of EVs into existing energy grids. By implementing intelligent charging methods and utilizing advanced data analysis techniques, researchers are paving the way for a smarter, more sustainable energy future. As the project progresses, the knowledge and insights gained from this initiative will contribute significantly to the development of scalable solutions that optimize energy use, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure grid stability in an era of rapid electrification.

 

[1] beeDIP is a pilot system platform that operates on microservices architecture. Its primary purpose is to facilitate operation management by offering a modular software platform. This modular architecture allows for seamless integration and connection of new third-party or custom functions to the existing control room software. To ensure compatibility and uniformity, beeDIP employs data integration services that convert required data from various sources, such as TASE.2, into the common information model standard. These standardized data sets are then made available to the grid calculation services, such as optimal power flow and network constraint management.

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