Capability of Reactive Power Compensation of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology using off-board EV Battery Charger

Abstract

This study investigates the potential for V2G in reactive power compensation, one of its lesser-known capabilities. With a focus on V2G-enabled electric vehicles, the research explores using an off-board EV battery charger, connected to the grid, to supplement or replace power transmission for RPC. It presents a control strategy for EV chargers, based on the analysis of nonlinear residential load currents and PCC voltages, to align voltage patterns and predict active load current components. At the system's core is a three-phase bidirectional inverter and a DC/DC bidirectional converter, interconnected through a DC link. Simulation results confirm the method's effectiveness, which involves modifying the control algorithm and power stage for efficient RPC. Additionally, a 20 kVA off-board charger  simulation model was developed in MATLAB/Simulink to validate the proposed control strategy for Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V), V2G, and RPC operations. The proposed framework optimizes power flow and improves grid stability, power quality, and efficiency through V2G technology. Advanced control techniques, such as dynamic charging profiles during charging, minimize reactive power losses and extend battery life, making the grid more reliable and efficient. The charger control methodology adheres to the latest IEEE Standard 1459-2010.