Charging of an AC Three-Phase Electric Vehicle: Power Quality Analysis up to 150 kHz

The escalating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), fueled by heightened environmental awareness and advancements in battery technology, is driving a significant demand for expanded charging infrastructure, encompassing residential solutions, public charging stations with AC and DC capabilities, and high-power fast charging stations (HPFCS). While the transition to EVs promises substantial benefits in terms of reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved energy efficiency, the widespread integration of EV charging introduces novel challenges for the electrical power grid, notably concerning Power Quality (PQ). This paper presents experimental results coming from a field measurement campaign, performed with high bandwidth instrumentation and high sample frequency. The acquired data are suitable for harmonic analysis up to 150 kHz and for investigating the so-called supraharmonic emissions originating from EV chargers and their consequential impact on the grid. These investigations are conducted in accordance with international standards that delineate methodologies for power quality assessment and specify requirements for the design and operation of electric vehicle charging systems, aiming to ensure safety, interoperability, and the minimization of adverse grid effects. The final aim is to provide a case study analysis of the potential impact of EVs charging stations on the ac power grid, also highlighting the main measurement issues related to PQ assessment for such systems.