Smart Parking Optimal Design for Renewable Energy Communities Integration in Power System

The increasing penetration of renewable energy generation, further accelerated by the introduction of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), and the widespread adoption of Electric Vehicles (EV) represent a transformative shift toward more sustainable and decentralized energy systems. These developments offer significant opportunities, particularly through Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which enables EVs to operate as mobile energy storage units, supporting grid stability and improving local self-consumption. However, they also introduce substantial challenges, such as the complexity of managing bidirectional power flows, the need for advanced control and optimization strategies, and the absence of clear regulatory frameworks to support large-scale V2G deployment. Addressing these issues is essential to unlock the full potential of integrated smart energy ecosystems. This paper investigates the optimal design of smart parking infrastructures within RECs, focusing on the interaction between photovoltaic generation, energy storage systems, and V2G charging stations. A case study, the University of Palermo campus (connected to the main grid), is analyzed to assess the technical and economic benefits of V2G-enabled smart parking in different grid contexts. The results demonstrate the potential of such systems to improve grid flexibility, reduce carbon emissions, and maximize local energy value.