Carbon-constrained energy planning for integrated transportation and power generation sectors

Abstract

The introduction of electric vehicles (EV) has changed the transportation and power generation systems, mainly affecting energy production, energy efficiency, and overall grid performance. In Malaysia, the government stated its commitment to adopt green initiatives and sustainable development. Thus, this research presents the energy planning framework for power generation and transportation system which determines the optimal energy mix by utilizing available renewable energy resources and the best location for charging stations. This research utilized carbon emission pinch analysis (CEPA) as a baseline model to conduct a feasibility study for electric vehicles in Malaysia. Mathematical equations were then applied to develop a mixed-integer linear programming model incorporated complex constraints for further holistic analysis of Malaysia. Four scenarios were devised to explore the impact of different carbon emission mitigation strategies. The results show that Scenario 4 (S4), which considered 40 % of total carbon emission reduction come from transportation sector, provide the best option in terms of energy mix, technology selection, levelized cost of electricity, and operation of EV. Although it requires the highest number of EV on the road compared to other scenario which is 2,345,776 units, it will only utilize 66,260.61 GWh of energy to be generated from renewable energy which is the lowest compared to the other scenarios. This results in the lowest levelized cost of electricity which is 0.3364 RM/kWh. This tariff can be applied to lower the cost of charging for EV operation. This research also provides strategies for the government to implement electric vehicles in Malaysia. The models may also be converted into useful software for town planners and policymakers.