SOLAR-ASSISTED EV CHARGING MICROGRID WITH BIDIRECTIONAL INVERTER (V2H DEMO)

Abstract

The rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions have led to the development of solar-assisted EV charging microgrids. This paper presents the design and implementation of a solar photovoltaic (PV)-based EV charging system integrated with a bidirectional inverter to enable Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) operation.
The proposed system combines PV generation, energy storage, and EV charging infrastructure within a microgrid framework to enhance energy efficiency, reliability, and grid independence. A bidirectional inverter plays a crucial role in enabling two-way power flow between the EV battery, the microgrid, and residential loads.
It allows EVs not only to charge from solar energy (PV-to-Vehicle) but also to discharge stored energy back to the home during peak demand or grid outages, demonstrating V2H capability. The system incorporates maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for optimal solar energy utilization, along with intelligent energy management strategies to balance supply and demand.
Multiple operating modes such as Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V), Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), and V2H are supported, ensuring flexibility and improved grid stability.
The V2H demonstration highlights the potential of EVs as distributed energy storage units that can provide backup power, reduce electricity costs, and enhance resilience in smart homes. Overall, the proposed solar-assisted microgrid offers an eco-friendly and efficient solution for next-generation EV charging infrastructure and decentralized energy systems.