An evaluation of V2G for distribution network harmonic suppression

Abstract

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is an emerging application of plug-in electric vehicles communicating with power grids to provide energy or ancillary services. Power quality improvement is one of the possible benefits of V2G systems. In this paper, V2G is evaluated as a means to improve distribution network power quality via harmonic suppression. Based on a V2G trial project, simulations were conducted with practical power quality parameters monitored and collected from installed charging points with V2G functions. Both the simulation and practical results revealed an improvement in voltage rms value but an increase in current harmonics during V2G operation. On the other hand, V2G had no significant effect on voltage harmonics. Lastly, potential solutions on how to suppress current harmonics were proposed.