CONICET | Buscador de Institutos y Recursos Humanos

This research paper analyzes the potential impacts of Electric Vehicles (EV) on the San Juan electric power system. Mass penetration of plug-in vehicles will affect utility operations by adding additional electricity demand. Depending on the power level, timing, and duration of the EVs connection to the grid, there could be a wide variety of impacts on grid constraints, capacity needs and emissions generated. In a strong penetration scenario, if EVs are charged over the same time period, especially if it coincides with the peak demand it may become higher than the utility expects and is prepared to and market prices might spike in those hours. In a region where electricity consumption comes, in more than 50%, from renewable sources, transport electrification can reduce total energy consumption (in both sectors) up to 14.9% and emissions up to 21.9% in 2030 when compared with a BAU (Business as Usual) scenario. Due to the strong dependence of San Juan renewable generation of hydro power, emissions associated to EVs could vary from 15gCO2/km in a wet year to 42gCO2/km in a dry year which is less than 1/3 of the local emissions an ICEV (Internal Combustion Engine Vehícle) inflicts in the environment.