Assessment of the Impact of Electric Vehicles' Smart Charging and V2G Strategies in the Portuguese Electricity Demand

This study assesses the impact of EV smart charging and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) strategies on the Portuguese national demand, evaluating their role in grid stability, peak load management, and renewable energy integration. Using scenario-based modelling, different EV charging profiles (residential, workplace, and public) and penetration levels under conservative and ambitious adoption frameworks are analysed. Results show that unmanaged residential charging significantly increases evening peak loads, while workplace and public charging help distribute demand more evenly. Smart charging strategies, including Time-of-Use (ToU) tariffs and dynamic load management, demonstrate the potential to shift demand to off-peak hours, reducing grid congestion. V2G technology further enhances grid flexibility by allowing EVs to discharge energy during peak periods, supporting frequency regulation and improving renewable energy utilization. Our findings highlight that a balanced EV charging distribution, combined with smart charging incentives and V2G implementation, can mitigate grid stress and enhance sustainability. Policy recommendations include expanding public charging networks, mandating smart charging capabilities, and promoting grid-supportive EV incentives. These measures will be essential for ensuring a resilient, cost-effective, and renewable-integrated EV ecosystem in Portugal.