Electric vehicles as facilitators of grid stability and flexibility: A multidisciplinary overview

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs), as facilitators of grid stability and flexibility, provide a critical solution to the energy infrastructure's evolving demands, underscored by the growing integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and the rapid increase in EV adoption worldwide. This trend is particularly evident in Europe which is experiencing dramatic increases in both the adoption of RES and EVs. Vehicle‐to‐grid (V2G) technology allows EVs to operate as a two‐way power flow to both draw and feed electricity into the grid. This multidisciplinary overview examines the role of V2G systems in enhancing grid performance, identifying corporate vehicle fleets as key flexibility providers, and integration with Smart Grid technologies as a key element for successful V2G implementation. In a scoping analysis of recent literature (2005–2024), we identify challenges such as privacy, security, and regulatory compliance as well as a critical gap in establishing economically sustainable models for aggregators, distribution system operators (DSOs), generation companies (GENCOs), and end‐users. Drawing from these insights, we then discuss the necessity for future research to develop models that ensure equitable benefits across stakeholders and the importance of models that can adapt to country‐specific mechanisms. The findings from our overview argue that the integration of EVs, V2G, and RES are essential components for developing future energy systems that are resilient, adaptable, decarbonized, and sustainable.This article is categorized under: Cities and Transportation > Electric Mobility Energy and Power Systems > Energy Infrastructure Energy and Power Systems > Energy Management