Unleashing efficiency: automated load management for electric vehicle charging
As the electric vehicle revolution charges ahead, businesses and property owners are seeking innovative solutions to efficiently power multiple EV charging stations. Automated Load Management (ALM) systems, also known as Local Load Management or Charge Management Systems, play a crucial role in optimizing electricity consumption, ensuring stable infrastructure capacity and managing costs. This article explores the definition, usage, benefits and impact of automated load management, tailored for fleet operators, multifamily property owners, workplace charging stakeholders and public charging operators.
Understanding load management
Load management is the art of balancing electricity usage at any given time to keep electrical loads within infrastructure capacity. In commercial settings, varying power demands arise due to factors like office activities, hotel guest amenities or restaurant kitchen operations. When integrating EV charging stations into these environments, controlling the load they demand becomes essential to maintaining service and stability.
The role of load management in EV charging
Load management for EV charging allows precise control over the electricity each charging station can utilize when multiple Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) units share the same circuit. This control, facilitated by Automated Load Management systems, ensures a balanced distribution of electricity among connected charging stations.
Local load management vs. load management
Local load management is a variant of load management performed onsite through hardware, eliminating the need for a networked charger management system. This not only streamlines the process but also reduces recurring costs. Both systems work in harmony to avoid overburdening the electrical infrastructure.
How automated load management works
Imagine your building's electrical panel providing 80 amps, and you have four chargers requiring 40 amps each at full charging capacity. Without load management, simultaneous full-capacity charging would exceed the panel's capacity. Here's where Automated Load Management steps in.
Automated Load Management allows EV chargers to communicate, distributing a steady electrical current to each station. For instance, in equally distributed load sharing, each charger would receive 20 amps, ensuring an even load. Alternatively, with first in, first charged load sharing, the first station gets full capacity and excess electricity is shared sequentially.
Dynamic load management in EV charging
Dynamic Load Management, synonymous with load management, utilizes software-based solutions to automate charge distribution. When a new EV is plugged in, adjustments are made in real-time, promoting efficient load sharing.
Continuous loads and EVSEs
EV charging stations may be considered continuous loads, requiring three hours or more of usage at a time. This distinction impacts electrical capacity needs. Certified electricians can assist in determining programming settings, ensuring optimal performance.
Peak hour control
Automated load management systems can be strategically used in conjunction with utility time-of-day pricing to optimize charging during off-peak hours. By programming chargers to operate more intensively during periods when electricity rates are lower, building managers can significantly reduce utility costs. These systems can dynamically adjust charging schedules based on real-time pricing data provided by the utility company, ensuring that the bulk of the charging occurs when rates are most economical. This not only helps in cutting down expenses but also eases the demand on the electrical grid during peak hours, contributing to overall grid stability.
Do you need load management for your EV chargers?
For single or multi-use homes with one or two EVSEs, load management may not be essential. However, for commercial properties expecting frequent usage, investing in load management is advisable to prevent system strain. Future-proof your installation by opting for EVSEs with load-sharing capabilities, even if not immediately required.
Choosing chargers with load management
Smart charging stations from several manufacturers can utilize Wi-Fi or the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) to talk to each other so that they manage electrical load when hardwired to a single electrical breaker. Smart charging stations with multiple charger ports connected to a single pedestal or base station can also manage loads automatically, providing a simple, low-setup way to extract more EV charging from the same, fixed electrical supply. These are sometimes called “charger systems,” and can have port counts of up to 20 or so (supporting up to 20 vehicles at a time).
Advantages of EV charging load management
1. Cost savings:
Utilize existing infrastructure, avoiding costly upgrades.
2. Peak hour control:
Optimize charging during off-peak hours, reducing utility costs.
3. Efficient energy distribution:
Balance load sharing to prevent system overload.
4. Future-proofing:
Prepare for increased demand without major infrastructure changes.
Automated Load Management is a strategic investment, aligning with sustainability goals, optimizing costs, and ensuring a seamless EV charging experience. Whether you're a fleet operator, property owner, workplace manager or public charging operator, embracing this technology is a step towards a greener, more efficient future.
