In response to the escalating demand for electric vehicles (EVs), the University of South Australia (UniSA) is pioneering a project to provide free or nominal-cost EV charging facilities for its staff and students.
This initiative, utilising the university's solar photovoltaic (PV) system, aims to optimise energy use and reduce workplace electricity expenses.
Researchers at UniSA's Mawson Lakes campus have identified the potential of renewable energy, particularly solar power, to support daytime EV charging.
This approach is expected to alleviate the strain on the electricity grid during peak evening hours and contribute to Australia's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The campus currently boasts solar panels on 18 buildings and additional ground-mounted installations. These were initially installed in 2019 based on the energy requirements at the time, prior to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
????Free electric vehicle charging at work? It’s possible with optimum solar, says @UniversitySA https://t.co/AYtX7wYCgD pic.twitter.com/oRcMV0NTSe— Australian Science Media Centre (@AusSMC) December 13, 2023
Free charging for EVs
A novel model developed by the UniSA team suggests that by expanding the existing solar PV system, free charging could be provided to more than 200 electric vehicles, equivalent to 25% of the campus's parking capacity.
Furthermore, by implementing a nominal charging fee, the campus could eventually accommodate a 100% EV penetration, realising more than 20% in energy savings.
This groundbreaking research, led by UniSA Professor Mahfuz Aziz, Dr Mohammed Haque and PhD researcher Yan Wu, has been published in the journal 'Renewable Energy.'
Yan Wu elaborated on their findings, stating, "We explored various models to find the most effective method for supporting EV charging while decreasing the campus's net annual energy costs.
"With 25% EV penetration, upgrading the solar PV system to its optimal capacity could reduce the campus's annual electricity costs by over 9% and support free EV charging during the day. This upgrade would also diminish peak power demand by at least 12%."
Benefits and challenges
South Australia's high solar PV penetration has led to a significant daytime reduction in grid power demand and an evening spike, presenting operational challenges.
Professor Aziz highlighted the issue of the 'duck curve,' where excess solar power exported to the grid during the day necessitates rapid ramp-up of dispatchable power in the evening.
Dr Haque emphasised the benefits of workplace EV charging, which uses excess renewable generation during the day, thus easing the evening peak demand and fostering a greener environment.
He advocates for the establishment of similar EV charging infrastructure in both private and public facilities across Australia to achieve a more balanced grid demand profile.