Electronic High-Definition Vehicle rollout and its influence on the power grid network
In a bid to reduce road vehicle emissions and promote a sustainable future, Heavy-Duty Electric Vehicles (HDEVs) are set to play a significant role in the fast-evolving European transportation landscape. According to a recent position paper, HDEVs contribute approximately 30% of road vehicle emissions.
The integration of HDEVs, charging infrastructure, and associated technologies is a complex task that requires careful consideration. Key factors include grid reinforcements, smart charging, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, and the deployment of digitalized and interoperable chargers.
The paper conducts a comprehensive technical and economic analysis, covering projections for vehicle and charging infrastructure uptake, consumer requirements, and regulatory and market issues. It also highlights the importance of coordinating the recharging infrastructure and on-site electrolysers for fuel cell vehicles in deployment and operation.
Recent EU legislation, such as the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation and the revision of CO2 emission performance standards for HDVs, reflects a commitment to these goals. The European Green Deal outlines a strategy for complete decarbonization of HDVs, following a similar approach taken with passenger cars.
To optimize the benefits of electromobility, various stakeholders, including vehicle and battery manufacturers, charging operators, energy aggregators, logistic operators, fleet managers, and regulators, are encouraged to collaborate. This strategy involves using emission-neutral fuels in internal combustion engines or transitioning to electric engines powered by batteries or hydrogen fuel cells.
The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) views electromobility as a crucial tool for decarbonizing the transportation sector. ENTSO-E emphasizes the importance of optimal integration between vehicles and the grid to enhance overall efficiency. The paper introduces a taxonomy of charging use cases, evaluating their impact on electric grids and the broader power system.
The shift in HDV technologies has significant implications for Transmission System Operators (TSOs), affecting grid planning, grid operation, and energy system operation. Increased energy load, power peaks, and variability are among the implications of the shift in HDV technologies.
The paper recommends coordinated actions by the aforementioned stakeholders and suggests entities involved in the implementation of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), such as AustriaTech with its OLÉ network supporting AFIR on the EU level, and research institutions like the German Aerospace Center (DLR) working on innovative mobility solutions, as key organizations to coordinate joint actions for the integration of heavy electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and related technologies in Europe.
Industry alliances such as EVCIPA (Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Promotion Alliance) in China contribute by providing real-time data, developing standards, and supporting integration with smart grids, reflecting the type of collaboration needed in Europe to optimize electromobility benefits, promote climate protection, and ensure power system efficiency.
This perspective aligns with ENTSO-E's vision of creating a power system that supports a carbon-neutral Europe. Among various alternative fuels for HDVs, battery-operated vehicles have a mature supply chain. Fuel-cell HDVs are considered uncertain but might find applications in long-haul road transport.
Access to over 700 EV Market Insights is available 'free of charge' via www.EVMarketsReports.com. The collaborative approach aims to optimize the benefits of electromobility, contribute to decarbonization, and ensure the resilience and efficiency of the power system in the pursuit of a sustainable and carbon-neutral future for Europe.
