Spatial Arbitrage Through Bidirectional Electric Vehicle Charging with Delivery Fleets

Abstract: The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), including electric taxis and buses, as a mode of transportation, is rapidly increasing in cities. In addition to providing economic and environmental benefits, these fleets can potentially participate in the energy arbitrage market by leveraging their mobile energy storage capabilities. This presents an opportunity for EV owners to contribute to a more sustainable and efficient energy system while also reducing their operational costs. The present study introduces deterministic and single-stage stochastic optimization frameworks that aim to maximize revenue by optimizing the charging, discharging, and travel of a fleet of electric vehicles in the context of uncertainty surrounding both spatial and temporal energy prices. The simulations are performed on a fleet of electric delivery trucks, which have to make deliveries to certain locations on specific dates. The findings indicate the promising potential of bidirectional electric vehicle charging as a mobile grid asset. However, it is important to note that significant revenue is only realized in scenarios where there is substantial variation in prices between different areas, and when these price variations can be accurately forecasted with a high level of confidence.