Bi-directional MIMO DC/DC Converter for V2G/X Infrastructures

Accelerating the transition towards decarbonization is essential to tackle global warming; and electric vehicles (EVs) have an enormous influence on decarbonization in the electricity and transport sectors, respectively. However, high penetration of these low-carbon technologies will challenge power grids because of the increase in electricity demand posed by uptake in EVs. Many technologies contribute to grid flexibility such as electrical energy storage (EES) and demand-response tools and EVs could effectively be utilized as an energy storage device to benefit the power grid in terms of grid flexibility and reliability.

Otaski Energy Solutions has developed the INtuitIV Digital Lamppost (IDL) which is a smart lamppost capable of hosting streetlights, EV chargers, 5G pico-cell radios and sensors. Almost 60% of households in the UK do not have off-street parking (TransportXtra,2020) and retrofitting street lampposts with V2G/X charging technology has been shown to be viable for rapid deployment of EV chargers. However, existing technologies for lamppost V2G/X charging technologies fall short in terms of complexity, sub-optimal energy management and inflexible operations. In any charging system, the auxiliary service of V2G/X such as flexibility enhancement may result in battery degradation and Grid imbalance. Battery degradation is caused by several factors (such as temperature, State-of-Charge (SOC), Depth-of-Discharge (DOD), charging rate, voltage exposure, current profile) and Grid imbalance caused by rapid electronic power conversions and unregulated charging patterns.

To address the above-mentioned problems, this proposal develops a V2X bi-directional charging prototype hardware including an intelligent observer for a high-gain bidirectional charging system. In addition, the proposed system introduces next-generation off-board bi-directional charging using DC Charge de move (CHAdeMO), which is compatible with a wide range of EVs and provides technical solutions to optimize EV battery performance. Ultimately, the bidirectional MIMO DC-DC converter will manage the energy flow. Thus, the proposed system offers many competitive advantages:

1. our solution will be equipped with an intelligent board for optimal power allocation according to demand;
2. use of MIMO topology will drastically reduce electronic wastes arising from junked PCB, wires, and their consequent hazards to soil and water.

This project aims to design and develop the bi-directional MIMO DC/DC Converter, expand the existing V2G/X business models and use cases, as well as develop a demonstration plan to advance the adaption of the converter and advance the IDL capabilities and improve its real-world applications.