As a significant number of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are rolled out in 2010 and 2011, there will be a marked impact on the electric power distribution network. This represents both a challenge and an opportunity. With thousands of PEVs - with electrical loads ranging from 5 kW to 50 kW for each - in their distribution network, electric utilities will take on a new role as transportation fuel providers.

While the uneven distribution of PEVs on their distribution network will create unexpected hot spots on their distribution network, it will also provide them the opportunity to make more kWh sales, preferably during off-peak hours, and use the batteries in the PEVs as distributed storage devices to reduce peak demands.

The Managing the Charge/Discharge Operations of the Electric Vehicle: The Role of the Smart Grid special interest session will discuss how the smart grid will help to manage the impacts of PEVs on power distribution system operations. It will also outline the opportunities, and protocols and technologies necessary to operate the PEV batteries as storage devices.

Saifur Rahman of Virginia Tech will moderate this session, Wednesday, April 21, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Room 296.

• G. Larry Clark, PE, Alabama Power Co.
• Alan Dulgeroff, San Diego Gas & Electric
• Arindam Maitra, EPRI