Sustainable energy integration and optimization in microgrids: enhancing efficiency with electric vehicle charging solutions

This study emphasizes the critical importance of sustainable energy sources and microgrid systems in meeting global energy demands and reducing environmental impacts. The integration of the energy and transportation sectors has the potential to optimize the use of renewable energy. This analysis of the optimization of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) powered by renewable energy sources, conducted using HOMER Grid software, identifies the most effective scenario among seven different resource-based scenarios. In particular, Scenario 3, which combines grid-connected photovoltaic systems, batteries, biodiesel generators, and EVCS components, emerges as the most efficient. This scenario offers the highest efficiency with a 29.40% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 96.16% reduction in unburned hydrocarbons compared to the baseline Scenario 1. Moreover, Scenario 3 shows a significant decrease in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), achieving $0.0549/kWh compared to the $0.409/kWh in Scenario 1. This scenario offers the highest efficiency with a net present value of 1.62 million USD, a levelized cost of energy of 0.0549 USD, an operating cost of 18,822 USD, and an initial capital cost of 1.28 million USD. Although Scenario 3 has an excess electricity percentage of 3.91%, this is within an acceptable range and demonstrates effective energy utilization. The findings of this study provide a roadmap for policymakers and industry stakeholders on the integration of renewable energy sources and microgrid systems. The implementation of the proposed integrated systems across various sectors marks a significant step toward a cleaner environment and a sustainable economy for future generations. This research offers substantial contributions toward achieving zero-emission targets and aligning with the goals of the Green Deal.