Optimization of load factor in distribution networks with high share of plug-in electric vehicles and photovoltaic generation

Photovoltaic (PV) generation systems and plug-in electric vehicles (EV) will have an important impact on distribution networks in the years to come. Several authors have proposed methods to reduce load factor of low voltage distribution networks by controlling EV charging power. In this context, this paper proposes an optimized method to improve load factor of LV distribution networks but also MV distribution networks. This is especially important to integrate photovoltaic generation plants connected to MV distribution networks. The proposed approach is based on the epsilon constrained of a multi-objective optimization and it has been validated through simulations on a real MV/LV distribution network. Additionally, the proposed methodology is compared to other charging control methods. Simulation results show that the new methodology can improve the integration of PV and EV technologies and reduce electric power losses.