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CONNECTING EVs TO THE ELECTRICITY GRID

 Accessible, reliable, and affordable electricity is a prerequisite for adequate charging infrastructure provision. For a rapidly scalable EV charging network, the ubiquitous low-tension (LT) electricity distribution infrastructure should be leveraged wherever feasible to provide electricity connections for EV charging. A distributed approach to charging infrastructure, comprising primarily of normal-power charging points, ensures that most charging points can be connected to the LT electricity network. This chapter explores the regulatory and governance provisions that impact EV charging connections, and lays out three methods for arranging electricity supply to private or public charging facilities. 

CHARGING METHODS AND POWER RATINGS

 


EV charging involves supply of direct current (DC) to the battery pack. As electricity distribution systems supply alternate current (AC) power, a converter is required to provide DC power to the battery. Conductive charging can be AC or DC. In the case of an AC EVSE, the AC power is delivered to the onboard charger of the EV, which converts it to DC. A DC EVSE converts the power externally and supplies DC power directly to the battery, bypassing the onboard charger. 


AC and DC charging are further classified into four charging modes, with Modes 1-3 pertaining to AC charging and Mode 4 pertaining to DC charging. Modes 1 and 2 are applicable for connecting an EV to a standard socket outlet, utilizing a cable and plug. Mode 1, also known as dumb charging, permits no communication between the EV and EVSE and its use is not recommended. The portable cable used in Mode 2 has an inbuilt protection and control capability and is typically used for home charging. Modes 3 and 4, which provide a separate charger device to supply power to the EV, have improved control systems and are used for commercial or public charging

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