Optimized Hybrid Energy Design for Load Management in Solar-Based Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Rural Area

Abstract

Among various energy-consuming sectors, transportation accounts for a significant contribution to global consumption, most of which is powered by conventional fossil-based sources. The growing urgency to address climate change, along with favorable international policies and technological advancements, has accelerated the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). However, this shift introduces new challenges, including the sustainable generation of electricity, managing increased loads on existing grids, and developing efficient EV charging infrastructure. In this paper, the design and optimization of a grid-integrated solar-lithium battery hybrid EV charging station tailored for rural areas. HOMER Grid and Pro software are used to design the proposed hybrid system, which comprises a 600 kW solar array, 5 lithium-ion batteries, a 25 kW battery, and a 76.2 kW bidirectional converter. The renewable fraction of the proposed system reached 100%, with an annual generation of 105319 kWh. This leads to a levelized cost of energy of $0.353/kWh, a net present cost of $462,686, and zero reliance on fossil fuels, which is suitable for both economic and environmental reasons.