Smart charging technology manages the impact of electric vehicles on the energy system by strategically regulating their charging activities. EVs impact the energy system by increasing the electricity demand, potentially straining the grid and affecting energy prices. By continuously monitoring real-time grid conditions and considering EV user preferences, smart charging technology optimizes charging schedules, reducing peak load stress and supporting renewable energy integration. This proactive approach reduces strain on the grid during peak hours and enhances the integration of EVs into the energy ecosystem while simultaneously minimizing expenses and environmental consequences, facilitating a smoother transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy ecosystem. 

V2G Technology and the Grid

V2G Technology offers grid flexibility by enabling EVs to export their surplus battery capacity to the grid. This can help bridge gaps in renewable energy generation or offer assistance during peak demand periods. With most EV charging occurring overnight, V2G facilitates the use of more renewable energy during peak-off hours, ensuring that their batteries are fully charged for the next day. V2G also bolsters grid resilience, offers ancillary services, and creates income opportunities for EV owners. However, overcoming technical and regulatory barriers is crucial to realizing its potential in enhancing grid stability and sustainability. Additionally, the extensive capacity of EV batteries can also serve the grid effectively through vehicle-to-grid technology, enabling bidirectional energy flow. By integrating EVs into the grid as flexible energy storage units, they can deliver ancillary services, mitigate grid volatility, and facilitate load management, ultimately fostering a greener and more robust energy ecosystem.

EV Charging Landscape in India

 CCS 2 chargers have become the prevailing charging connector for electric four-wheelers, promoting interoperability in EV charging infrastructure. However, when it comes to electric two and three-wheelers, there is still a lack of standardized connectors. In terms of CPOs and CMS, the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) is being introduced as a payment interface, akin to the UPI in the financial sector, to facilitate seamless and convenient payment methods for EV charging. Charger manufacturers are mandated to adhere to Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) standards, with approval from organizations such as ICAT or ARAI serving as a standard requirement. Niti Ayog’s recommendations for EV charging infrastructure have significantly influenced national and state-level policies. State policies on EVSE have been updated regularly, moving from initial initiatives for EV infrastructure development to recent mandates in the form of Government Orders for all forthcoming projects.

Role of DLT ( Distributed Ledger Technology ) and DIH( Digital Integration Hub ) in the EV Industry

Technological Advancements like Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and Digital Integration Hub(DIH) are reshaping the EV industry by streamlining operations, enhancing transparency, and revolutionizing data management and exchange. DLT plays a vital role in securely recording all data related to EV charging and discharging, ensuring the integrity of information against malicious tampering. This technology also empowers EV users to monitor their vehicle’s status during power transactions and dispatching, enhancing transparency and trust in the process. DIH is an advanced application architecture that consolidates fragmented data from various backend record systems into low-latency, high-performance, and scalable data without unnecessary complexities in a cost-effective way. It can help with managing and monitoring the charging stations as well as optimize energy usage. Through the utilization of a Digital Integration Hub (DIH) with IoT integration, companies gain access to real-time status updates on their charging stations, facilitating rapid response to any offline issues that may arise.

Way Forward

 The EV industry is currently experiencing an exciting era of growth and India can expect several groundbreaking technological advancements and trends that will significantly amplify the impact of the EV charging ecosystem within the technological landscape. These include the emergence of sodium-ion batteries, the adoption of wireless EV charging, the deployment of electric roadways, the incorporation of EV charging lanes, and the design of overhead electric line systems specifically designed for electric buses and trucks.

Authored By
Mr. Raman Bhatia, Founder &  Managing Director
Servotech Power Systems Ltd.

This article was originally published in Manufacturing Today