As electric vehicle popularity grows, so too will the demand on the grid, raising questions about crashes and rate hikes. However, researchers from the University of Vermont may have found an answer.
The scientists suggest using smart meters to charge cars for 5-10 minutes at a time, similar to how radio and internet communications are distributed in small “packets” of information.
Charges continue while demand stays low. During periods of high demand, cars requesting power from the grid take turns receiving packets of electricity, allowing utilities to spread out the demand as needed and avoid overloading the grid.
The study was published in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers journal, IEEE Transactions on Smart Grid.
