Assessing an Edge-based Platform for Enabling Coordinate Charging with Renewable Energy Sources in Existing Electric Vehicles Charging Stations

The increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs) presents significant challenges for existing charging infrastructure, particularly in managing demand and optimizing energy distribution. This study explores the potential of an edge-based platform to enhance the coordination and efficiency of EV charging stations. The proposed platform integrates real-time data processing and localized decision-making to optimize charging schedules and reduce peak loads, in addition with the capability to apply remote power profile. The feasibility of the proposed approach has been evaluated by controlling a real charging station in the eLUX lab of the University of Brescia, Italy. The prototype has been realized using the Fledge framework, an open-source edge framework released by LF foundation. This platform is characterized by flexibility since it supports different communication protocols and can be easily integrated with new ones, such as Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). The results indicate that the edge-based platform demonstrates robustness in adapting to fluctuating demand and varied station capacities. These results suggest that implementing edge computing in existing EV charging infrastructure can offer substantial benefits in terms of operational efficiency and energy management.