Improving Commercial Viability of Fast Charging by Providing Renewable Integration and Grid Services With Integrated Multiple DC Fast Chargers

This research project addresses the high cost of financing, building, and operating direct current fast charging stations that charge plug-in electric vehicles in California. The project goal was to demonstrate a direct current fast charging station with limited impact to the electric grid infrastructure. The project's test site consisted of four 50-kilowatt direct current fast chargers and a second-life battery energy storage system, located at a shopping center in Monterey Park, California. Data was collected on site and added to representative data from other fast charger installations. Operational data of the plug-in electric vehicle charging site, the second-life battery energy storage system, and the site controller were analyzed to identify potential savings. The project simulated and evaluated multiple applications, including participation in demand response programs, renewable integration from onsite solar photovoltaics, and demand charge mitigation.