Electromobility and Distribution System Operators: Overview of International Experiences and How to Address the Remaining Challenges

The electrification of transport is rapidly reshaping power distribution networks, introducing new technical, regulatory, and operational challenges for Distribution System Operators (DSOs). This article presents an international review of electromobility integration strategies, analyzing experiences from Europe, Canada, Australia, and Greece. It examines how DSOs address grid impacts through smart charging, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) services, and demand flexibility mechanisms, alongside evolving regulatory and market frameworks. European initiatives—such as Germany’s Energiewende and the UK’s Demand Flexibility Service—demonstrate how coordinated planning and interoperability standards can transform electric vehicles (EVs) into valuable distributed energy resources. Case studies from Canada and Greece highlight region-specific challenges, such as limited access in remote communities or island grid constraints, while Australia’s high PV penetration offers unique opportunities for PV–EV synergies. The findings emphasize that DSOs must evolve into active system operators supported by digitalization, flexible market design, and user engagement. The study concludes by outlining implementation barriers, policy implications, and a roadmap for DSOs.