INTERCHARGE

The energy transition leads to a simultaneous and coupled transformation of the mobility and electricity sectors. A major barrier for the uptake of Battery electric Vehicle (BeV) is associated with range anxiety that can be overcome if a mix of home, on-street and fast charging infrastructure are to be rolled out. The uptake of BeV increases the overall electricity demand while fast charging can be particularly challenging to the electricity grid due to power spikes. However, when large pools of
batteries in BeVs can be used as a flexible demand or storage, they can also be a solution for the integration of renewable energy sources through improved balancing. For informed decisions of stakeholders and policy makers, it is crucial to understand patterns and trends of the Swiss BeV uptake, the optimal development of private and public charging infrastructure, and the implications for the Swiss energy system. Though studies looked at some of these aspects, there is no comprehensive assessment to what extent BeV may stress or support the Swiss net-zero energy transition and electric grid. 

This proposal aims to address this research gap and answer the questions: 

1. How does BeV and its electricity demand evolve and what are expected power spike from charging infrastructure under different charging behaviours? 
2. Are capacities at the different grid levels adequate to cope with the power spikes from home and public charging? 
3. What strategies can avoid grid bottlenecks? 
4. To what extent can BeVs support the integration of renewables and relieve the grid, during grid to vehicle or vehicle to grid operation?

To answer these questions, we will enrich and apply two established Swiss energy system and electricity grid modelling frameworks. Through two realistic case studies with industry partners, the proposed research answers not only the stated research questions but also provides insights for exploring new business model on charging infrastructure developments and policy recommendations related to BeV charging in support of the net-zero energy transition.