CLUSTER BASED DEPLOYMENT OF SECOND LIFE EV BATTERIES FOR RELIABLE AND SUSTAINABLE BACKUP POWER SOLUTION IN POWER SYSTEMS

In emergency situations, ensuring reliable backup power sources for the power system is critically important for maintaining the stability and uninterrupted operation of energy infrastructure. The challenges posed by wartime conditions and the growing vulnerability of energy infrastructure, particularly HVsubstations, demand innovative approaches that combine economic efficiency, technical reliability, and environmental sustainability. The aim of this study is to develop comprehensive solutions for providing reliable and sustainable backup power to Ukraine's HVsubstations, addressing contemporary challenges in energy security and environmental resilience. The paper examines the potential of second-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries as a promising alternative to traditional solutions, such as diesel generators. The use of second-life batteries offers a novel approach that meets modern requirements for energy efficiency and sustainable development. The clustering methodology employed in the study enables the optimization of resource allocation among substations, considering factors such as load levels, outage frequency, and required reserve capacity. This approach ensures tailored solutions for the specific operational needs of each cluster, enhancing resource utilization efficiency. The study includes a detailed evaluation of the economic, technical, and environmental characteristics of various solutions, including diesel generators, new batteries, and second-life batteries, both independently and in combination with renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic modules. The results demonstrate that second-life batteries, particularly when integrated with renewable energy sources, offer substantial advantages, including cost reductions, decreased CO₂ emissions, and enhanced energy resilience. The proposed recommendations for implementing second-life batteries are supported by a comprehensive analysis of legislative, technical, and economic aspects. This study provides a roadmap for integrating second-life EV batteries as a sustainable and scalable solution to strengthen energy security, facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy, and enhance the resilience of Ukraine's power system. Keywords: second-life batteries integration, backup power, resilience, HV substations, clustering methodology, sustainable development.