A Case Study of Powering the EV Revolution: Balancing Grid Challenges with BESS and TOU Strategies
Emad Al-Mahdawi, Tom Oliver Milton, Naseer Salman Kadhim · International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering · 2025
The accelerating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) creates opportunities and technical challenges for electrical distribution networks. As transportation electrification increases, the additional charging demand threatens to overload existing grid infrastructure. This research analyses the projected effects of Electric Vehicle (EV) proliferation on distribution systems. It evaluates potential solutions, particularly on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Time-Of-Use (TOU) pricing mechanisms. Furthermore, this study examines BESS’s development prospects and growth potential within the UK energy sector, aiming to preserve and strengthen its competitive position. The research demonstrates that EV integration presents challenges, including amplifying demand surges and voltage regulation issues. Although battery storage technologies provide technical solutions, their economic feasibility remains questionable. Time-of-use pricing strategies and distributed behind-the-meter storage emerge as viable alternatives. An integrated methodology incorporating multiple approaches is crucial for integrating Electric Vehicles (EVs) into the grid. Future research directions should include long-term system reliability analysis, sophisticated control mechanisms, and comprehensive integration of various Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).