Integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems for Sustainable EV Charging Infrastructure

The transition to a low-carbon energy matrix has driven the electrification of vehicles (EVs), yet charging infrastructure—particularly fast direct current (DC) chargers—can negatively impact distribution networks. This study investigates the integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) with the power grid, focusing on the E-Lounge project in Brazil as a strategy to mitigate these impacts. The results demonstrated a 21-fold increase in charging sessions and an energy consumption growth from 0.6 MWh to 10.36 MWh between June 2023 and March 2024. Compared to previous findings, which indicated the need for more robust systems, the integration of a 100 kW/138 kWh BESS with DC fast chargers (60 kW) and AC chargers (22 kW) proved effective in reducing peak demand, optimizing energy management, and enhancing grid stability. These findings confirm the critical role of BESSs in establishing a sustainable EV charging infrastructure, demonstrating improvements in power quality and the mitigation of grid impacts. The results presented in this study stem from a project approved under the Research and Development program of the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL) through strategic call No. 022/2018. This initiative aimed to develop a modular EV charging infrastructure for fleet vehicles in Brazil, ensuring minimal impact on the distribution network.