Internet of Things with EV Charging Infrastructure

IoT technology improves the functionality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction of charging stations while assuring a more reliable and sustainable energy supply. As the market for electric vehicles expands, the Internet of Things (IoT) will play a crucial role in meeting future demand.

June 15, 2023. By News Bureau

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articles

Internet of things

Keto Motors

Electric Vehicles

Charging infrastructure

charging stations

Green energy

The Internet of Things (IoT) has drastically changed how we interact with the world around us. IoT technology connects devices and systems over the internet, leading to substantial advancements in a number of industries. One such sector that has greatly benefited from IoT is the infrastructure for charging electric cars (EVs). Rapid and easy charging facilities are urgently needed due to the rising popularity of electric vehicles. This post will go through the significance of IoT in EV charging stations, as well as how it enhances their functionality and benefits users, charging station operators, and the larger energy system.

Monitoring and Analysis of Data in Real Time
IoT technology allows for continuous monitoring and analysis of data from EV charging stations. Utilising sensors and internet connectivity, charging stations can transmit real-time data to a centralised system. This data provides specifics on energy usage, charging process status, and any potential issues or malfunctions. Real-time monitoring allows operators to respond rapidly to problems, which reduces downtime and improves user experience.

Adaptive Load Management
The infrastructure for charging electric vehicles has certain challenges, one of which is managing the demand on the electrical grid. IoT technology addresses this problem by enabling smart load control. By combining data from several sources, including weather forecasts, consumer preferences, and grid conditions, IoT-based systems may optimise charging schedules to minimise overloading the grid. This smart approach ensures a dependable and efficient energy supply while reducing the strain on the electrical infrastructure.

Excellent User Experience
The user experience at EV charging stations is greatly improved by IoT technology. Using mobile applications and connected devices, users can easily locate nearby charging stations, check their availability, and even reserve a charging area in advance. Additionally, real-time updates on charge status, anticipated completion time and billing information are accessible via remote access. This simplicity and openness provide EV owners with a more enjoyable and trouble-free charging experience.

Preventive Maintenance and Remote Diagnosis
IoT systems can help predict maintenance needs and perform remote diagnostics on EV charging stations. By analysing data from sensors and connected devices, potential issues can be identified before they escalate into critical problems. This proactive approach to maintenance not only reduces the likelihood of unexpected downtime but also lowers maintenance costs and prolongs the lifespan of the charging infrastructure.

Plug and Charge
"Plug and Charge" is a prominent feature of the EV charging ecosystem. This capability facilitates charging by removing the need for physical cards, RFID devices, or mobile applications to initiate and authenticate transactions. The Internet of Things expedites and simplifies charging.

Electric vehicles and IoT-enabled charging stations constitute a secure communication route. The station analyses the digital identifier of the EV to a user database. This verification could examine the user's payment information, account status, and charge preferences. After authentication, the IoT-enabled charging station begins charging and sends charging data in real-time to the user's account, provides data related to energy consumption, charge rate, and estimated completion time. This information is accessible remotely via email or a mobile application.

Plug-and-charge technology facilitated by IoT is advantageous for EV owners and charging station operators. It simplifies, secures, and enhances billing by eliminating the need for human verification and payment processes and reduces fraud and unauthorised access. In collaboration with Trinity Cleantech, ETO Motors will release a vehicle and charger to demonstrate the Plug and Charge concept as a proof of concept.

Future Trends
IoT technology connects EV charging stations to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power as the globe advances towards them. IoT-enabled technology can manage electricity from several sources, ensuring charging stations use green energy when available. This decreases the carbon impact of charging EVs and helps create a green transportation system. Another innovative use of cutting-edge technology in EV charging infrastructure is blockchain carbon credit validation. Blockchain can securely detect carbon emissions and authenticate carbon credits from EV charging stations. Blockchain is an open-source, decentralised ledger.

Blockchain technology and IoT-enabled EV charging stations can track real-time emission reduction data. The blockchain can quantify and record CO2 emissions avoided while charging EVs using renewable energy. This open and verifiable record allows the creation and issuance of carbon credit certificates, which can be traded on carbon markets or used by organisations to offset their carbon footprint.

IoT and blockchain technologies encourage renewable energy consumption in EV charging infrastructure and encourage businesses and individuals to invest in sustainable transportation solutions. Blockchain-based carbon credit certification encourages eco-friendly EV charging as part of the global climate change effort. We at Trinity Cleantech in collaboration with Goldstone Technology is working on this technology for issuing carbon credit certificate.

Conclusion
The Internet of Things has profoundly altered how we conceive of the infrastructure necessary for electric vehicle charging, which is undeniably significant. IoT technology improves the functionality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction of charging stations while assuring a more reliable and sustainable energy supply. As the market for electric vehicles expands, the Internet of Things (IoT) will play a crucial role in meeting future demand. This innovation encourages the widespread proliferation of electric vehicles by facilitating a seamless and convenient charging experience.

- Raj Kumar Medimi, President, Keto Motors