Analysis of hybrid energy systems for electric vehicle charging of different demographics

The increasing reliance on electric vehicles underscores the critical need for sustainable and efficient charging solutions. This research addresses the significant impact of demographic characteristics on the optimization of hybrid energy systems for electric vehicles charging. Given the diversity in charging patterns among electric vehicles users, shaped by variables such as gender, educational background, and age, this study posits that a one-size-fits-all approach to hybrid energy systems design is insufficient. Instead, we argue that understanding and integrating demographic-specific charging behaviors is pivotal for advancing sustainable transportation. This exploration into the complex relationship between hybrid energy systems optimization and demographic-specific charging behaviors provides crucial insights for developing tailored energy solutions. The study encompasses three distinct demographics: (i) exclusively charging electric vehicles during the day, (ii) charging electric vehicles at night, and (iii) distributing charging throughout the day. The study utilizes the Homer Pro software to model and optimize hybrid energy systems configurations comprising solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, and battery banks in Saudi Arabia. The analysis extends to both off-grid and on-grid systems, assessing their technical, economic, and environmental performance. Furthermore, the multi-criteria decision-making approach is used to identify the best hybrid system for each demography. Key findings reveal that the optimized hybrid energy system varies significantly among demographics, with the PV/Wind/battery/converter system of demography 1 outperforming others in off-grid scenarios for daytime chargers with a net present cost of $475,110, cost of electricity of $0.168 and generating 462,917 kWh electricity annually, while on-grid configurations favor the PV/Wind/Grid/Converters setup of demography 2 for nighttime charging with net present cost of $150,316, cost of electricity of $0.0179, and 543,681 kWh energy annually. The study underscores the importance of demographic considerations in hybrid energy systems design and highlights potential pathways for enhancing energy sustainability in the transportation sector.