Title:  Smart Charging of Electric Vehicles: Algorithms, Ramifications, and Hardware Development

Committee: 

Dr. Taylor, Advisor

Dr. Leamy, Co-Advisor 

Dr. Grijalva, Chair

Dr. Molzahn

Abstract: The objectives of the proposed research are multiple. The first objective is to refine smart charging algorithms for electric vehicles (EVs) developed in prior work and extend them to fleet charging scenarios. In this task, we will consider various fleet charging scenarios in residential and commercial settings (e.g., apartment complexes, shopping centers, EV parking lots), as well as charging of light, medium, and heavy-duty electric vehicles. We will also study interactions between EV owners and the electric power grid, and determine practical methods to satisfy the objectives and constraints associated with both EV owners/fleet operators and the power utility. Finally, we will treat the topic of charging authority with care; do not assume that the utility has the authority to control the charging of multiple EVs (common assumption in literature). Other objectives of the proposed research are to i) refine grid impact assessment methods developed in prior work and apply them to analyze fleet charging scenarios, ii) package the smart charging algorithms and grid impact assessment methods into decision-support tools (we anticipate that end-users of our tool will include both electric power utilities and prospective fleet operators, such as warehouse operators, delivery service companies, apartment complex managers, etc. seeking to assess the costs and benefits of smart EV charging), iii) develop a smart charging hardware/software system that performs variable power EV charging, iv) analyze the costs and benefits of smart charging to individual EV owners, fleet owners, and utility operators, and to v) state any policy implications or suggestions for future investments.