Abstract:

As zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) continue to grow in popularity, governments around the world are working to promote uptake and increase the benefits they hold for drivers and the environment. While a successful transition to a ZEV fleet will require the collaboration of many stakeholders, the role of the electric utility is especially important. This paper provides an overview of the existing research and analysis of the intersection between utilities and ZEVs. The paper reviews literature produced by researchers, utilities, and government agencies to help catalogue utility practices that support the growing ZEV market. The topics discussed include the impact of electric vehicles on the grid, utility support of transportation electrification, smart charging technologies and their effects, and novel business models in this field. Many utilities and governments have worked proactively to study the impacts of electric vehicles on the grid and the best ways to incorporate ZEVs into their future plans. This literature review summarizes practices among electric power utilities to promote the integration of electric vehicles and maximize their potential benefits to utilities, drivers, ratepayers, and society at large.