Simulation and Implementation of Grid-Connected Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Tabriz Commercial Complexes

The import and adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in several developing nations, including Iran. EV utilization not only reduces national fuel consumption but also contributes to lowering greenhouse gas emissions. However, the location and design of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) remain significant challenges to EV adoption. In many countries, the power grid struggles to accommodate the substantial load generated by these charging stations. This issue can be mitigated by integrating renewable energy sources (RESs) to power EVCSs. This study examines the feasibility and methodology of establishing EVCSs in the parking lots of selected commercial and recreational complexes in Tabriz. The required energy for EV charging is supplied by photovoltaic (PV) power plants installed on the rooftops of these complexes, supplemented by the national power grid. This approach addresses land scarcity for EVCS construction in densely populated cities like Tabriz and leverages solar energy to meet a significant portion of the electricity demand, enhancing grid stability. Additionally, it provides convenience for EV users by enabling vehicle charging during visits to recreational facilities and increases the attractiveness of shopping centers. By reducing the costs associated with building standarne charging stations and mitigating air pollution, this strategy delivers economic and environmental benefits. Using the PVsyst program, we simulated the operation of a solar power plant in this context. The results indicate that eight commercial complexes in Tabriz can fully charge 428 EVs daily. Of the <tex xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">$6,914,905 \text{kWh}$</tex> of electricity generated by the solar panels, only 896095 kWh was sourced from the national grid, achieving a solar fraction (SF) of 88.2% and a performance ratio (PR) of <tex xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">$\mathbf{8 0. 7 1 \%}$</tex>.