How Eradeh uses ETAP to study unbalanced harmonics in EV charging stations to mitigate disruptions

We developed an action plan, implemented mitigation solutions, and further evaluated our field results. What we noticed is that we increased energy savings by 10% and uptime in the fleet by 20%.
Nina Sadighi, Eradeh Power Consulting Founder

To address the challenge to existing distribution infrastructure due to growing fleet electrification demands across the U.S., Eradeh set out identify EV charging management strategies and address power quality issues. Using an ETAP Digital Twin for system modeling, a root cause analysis was performed. The resulting comprehensive reporting assisted with compliance assessments and the development of an action plan to implement mitigation solutions and further evaluation of field results.

Eradeh Power Consulting offers design, engineering, and planning services and comprehensive solutions for power systems across a wide range of industries. The company delivers excellence in power engineering by combining time-tested expertise with innovative approaches, ensuring that its clients achieve uncompromising reliability, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth. Through rigorous design, data-driven insights, and unwavering quality standards, they transform power infrastructure challenges into opportunities for advancement.

Location: Houston, Texas, USA

Year: 2024

Objective and methods

  • Identify how to effectively research the root cause of operational inefficiencies related to power quality
  • Develop a plan to improve the reliability of EV charging for energy cost savings
  • Implement analysis processes to assist with compliance reviews

This case study features insights and observations from field-recorded measurements of unbalanced (per-phase) harmonic distortions at a site with over 300 electric van charging stations. The unbalanced harmonic analysis (UBHA) conducted for the site revealed distortion limits being exceeded for individual phase currents and voltages as well as power distribution equipment rating overloads (such as transformer K-rating and cable thermal limits). As well, the study looked at how unbalanced harmonic distortions calculated within the site and at the point of common coupling (PCC) can be mitigated using techniques such as the use of active / passive harmonic filters amongst others.

What we delivered

ETAP's Unified Digital Twin and ETAP Engineering Services to perform Unbalanced Harmonic Analysis (UBHA) to assess the overall system response due to harmonic distortion introduced by electrical charging (EV) systems. 

ETAP's simplified electrical system modeling approach employs digital versions of the existing equipment (transformers, filters, etc.) and potential solution configurations. Field-measured harmonic data can be integrated into the digital twin model to validate and fine tune the analysis. The solution also helps to determine compliance with all needed electrical standards for the design and calculations of electrical vehicle stations. 

Outcomes

Improved Operational Efficiency and Energy Cost Savings

  • Increased energy savings by 10% by reducing harmonic-induced losses and improving overall power quality.
  • Increased uptime by 20% in the fleet by mitigating issues such as equipment mis-operation and nuisance tripping.
  • Reduced electrical equipment damage by reducing harmonic influence due to identification of better equipment solutions to prevent overheating when subjected to harmonics.
  • Identification and mitigation of configurations and conditions that cause voltage or current harmonic distortion that exceed the limits established by industry standards such as IEEE 5/19/2022.
  • Ongoing ability to predict and detect system malfunctions using an accurate digital twin model.

Here, we focus on why power quality matters and what causes harmonics in EVs. Power quality is the silent threat to your operation and it is costing you money. It impacts equipment reliability, it impacts equipment lifespan, it impacts operation efficiency and energy costs as well.

Nina Sadighi, PE, SMIEEE, Eradeh Power Consulting Founder


Several scenarios were created using ETAP to perform simulations and determine system responses under various operating conditions, including the effects of unbalanced loading and different system configurations.

Deepika Tummala, Electrical Engineer at ETAP



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