Peak Shaving
Core Definition
Peak Shaving refers to reducing the highest peaks in the electricity consumption load curve through technical means. In the charging sector, this is typically achieved by integrating Energy Storage Systems (ESS/Batteries): storing energy during grid off-peak periods and discharging it during peak EV charging times to supplement power, thereby reducing instantaneous impact on the grid.
Analysis from an Application Environment Perspective
Peak Shaving is primarily applied in commercial environments where electricity billing includes high “Demand Charges.”
- High Power Fast Charging Hubs:
When multiple EVs fast-charge simultaneously, the site’s power demand spikes instantly. This triggers massive demand charge penalties from utility companies. In this environment, a peak shaving system equipped with storage acts as a “buffer pool,” providing part of the peak power instead of the grid, significantly optimizing the operational cost structure. - Grid-Constrained Edge Locations:
In remote highway rest stops or older urban districts, grid upgrades are prohibitively expensive or unfeasible. Peak shaving technology enables the construction of high-power stations in these “thin pipe” areas by using storage to accumulate energy slowly, ready to meet the occasional high-power charging demand.
V2G
EV Smart Charging
EV Roaming
Electric Vehicle Fleet Operator
Dynamic Load Balancing
Demand Side Response
CPO
AC Charging
V2V
V2L
V2H