EV Fast-Charging Station: A Methodology to Economical Evaluation of Operation

This article proposes a methodology to evaluate the economic feasibility of operating a fast-charging station (FCS) for electric vehicles on highways. This study examines 2 FCSs, incorporating a PV system, and estimates generation and consumption scenarios for the coming years. Considering infrastructure investments and projected revenues and costs, the payback period for the initial investment was evaluated. In the case study, the payback period was estimated at least 6 years for FCS 2 and less than 4 years for FCS 1. These results underscore the importance of situating FCS in regions with high EV traffic and population density. It was also observed that FCS 1 will soon operate at maximum capacity, needing expansion to meet the estimated future demand. Further analyses could determine the optimal charging fees to achieve payback within specific timeframes.