Grid Optimization: Strategic MaxCurrent Management

The eMabler platform's MaxCurrent management system plays a critical role in grid optimization for Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and energy operators. By dynamically adjusting the maximum charging current (MaxCurrent), the system ensures optimal energy distribution across the grid, protects infrastructure, and helps operators adhere to various regulatory and operational constraints.

Strategic MaxCurrent management allows CPOs and energy operators to make informed, real-time decisions about charging behavior while optimizing power usage and preventing grid overloads.

Key Benefits for CPOs and Energy Operators:

1. Allocate Load by Schedule (e.g., Office Hours vs. Night)

   • Objective: Ensure that the energy load is distributed optimally throughout the day.

   • How it works: By adjusting the MaxCurrent based on time-of-day schedules, CPOs can allocate more charging capacity during off-peak hours (e.g., night) and reduce the load during peak office hours. This scheduling helps prevent grid congestion and minimizes energy costs during periods of high demand.

2. Protect Shared Infrastructure

   • Objective: Prevent overloading of shared infrastructure, such as fuses, transformers, and power distribution systems.

   • How it works: Setting the MaxCurrent to a safe threshold prevents charging stations from exceeding the capacity of the shared electrical infrastructure. This reduces the risk of infrastructure failure, overheating, or damage, ensuring long-term system reliability.

3. Comply with DSO/Utility Limits

   • Objective: Ensure compliance with Distribution System Operator (DSO) or utility-imposed power limits.

   • How it works: The MaxCurrent can be dynamically adjusted to stay within the limits set by local utilities or DSOs, preventing penalties and ensuring compliance with grid regulations. This flexibility helps operators adapt to changing grid conditions or utility requirements.

4. Enable Prioritized Usage Zones

   • Objective: Prioritize charging for specific users or areas based on predefined criteria (e.g., critical infrastructure, fleets).

   • How it works: Operators can allocate more charging capacity (higher MaxCurrent) to priority zones or users, ensuring that critical operations or high-demand areas are always adequately supported. Conversely, less critical stations can be limited to a lower MaxCurrent, optimizing overall system efficiency.

Scenario: Dynamic MaxCurrent Adjustment

Let's consider a practical scenario to understand how the MaxCurrent management works in real-time.

• Fuse Rating: 250A

• MaxCurrent Setting: 180A

• External Load: 80A (other equipment or loads on the same grid segment)

• Remaining Capacity for EV Charging: 97A (based on the difference between MaxCurrent and External Load, 180A - 80A - 3A). Further 3A are subtracted from the remaining capacity as load margin in order to avoid continuous changes in the EV capacity in case of load fluctuations. For example, if the external load fluctuates between 79A-81A, the EV capacity does not change.

At any given moment, the system can adjust the Available Max Current dynamically to respond to operational needs. Here's how it could play out:

• Current Situation: The MaxCurrent is set to 180A, but there is already an 80A external load on the system. This means that up to 97A of additional load can be safely allocated to electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

• Dynamic Adjustment: If, for example, there is a need to prioritize usage (such as during peak hours or a critical charging session), the MaxCurrent can be reduced from 180A to a lower value (e.g., 150A), ensuring that the grid infrastructure is not overloaded. Alternatively, during off-peak hours, when demand is low, MaxCurrent can be increased (e.g., up to 200A) to allow more EVs to charge simultaneously without exceeding the fuse rating.

• Outcome: The MaxCurrent is adjusted dynamically based on the external load and operational needs. By doing so, the system helps optimize grid usage, protect infrastructure, and ensure that charging is always safe and efficient.

Advanced Management for Operational Needs:

1. Real-time Load Monitoring: By constantly monitoring the total load on the grid and comparing it to available capacity, the platform can predict when and where load spikes may occur, enabling proactive management.

2. Adaptive Responses to Grid Conditions: In scenarios where grid conditions change (e.g., unexpected surges in demand or a dip in available capacity), the system can adjust MaxCurrent settings accordingly, preventing potential overloads and ensuring that all connected chargers operate within safe limits.

3. Collaboration with Utility and DSO Data: Integration with external data sources (e.g., utility signals, DSO power constraints) allows the system to auto-adjust MaxCurrent based on broader grid conditions, ensuring compliance with energy consumption limits and avoiding penalties or grid instability.

In essence, the Strategic MaxCurrent Management system is designed to give operators the flexibility and intelligence they need to optimize grid usage, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, all while minimizing costs and improving overall charging efficiency.