Use of Synchrophasors to Transform NEVI EV Charging Stations and Energy Storage into Distribution Grid Nodes

The US National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, starting in 2023 runs five years, and will fund $5B of 600kW DC fast charging stations (four 150kW chargers) located 50 miles apart on the nation’s primary highway corridors [1]. Integrating synchrophasor grid measurements via a micro phasor measurement unit (𝜇PMU) and microgrid controller at the charging station can transform a distribution grid problem into a distribution grid asset and turn NEVI charging stations into microgrid distribution nodes to provide grid services for asset owners, and enable valuable grid visualization for grid operators. Ultimately, NEVI charging stations, along with co-located energy storage and renewables, can enhance grid resiliency and grid stability via microgrid control and ultrafast 𝜇PMUs.