Integrating EVSE with Wi-SUN FAN Networks

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the supporting infrastructure is evolving rapidly. Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is a crucial component of this infrastructure. Commonly referred to as charging stations, EVSE encompasses much more than just a power outlet. This blog explores EVSE, its importance, and how integrating it with Wi-SUN (Wireless Smart Ubiquitous Network) Field Area Network (FAN) can enhance EV charging infrastructure.

What is EVSE and How Does it Work?

EVSE refers to the components that deliver electrical energy from an external source to an EV's battery while ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability. EVSE includes electrical conductors, connectors, plugs, sockets, and the software and communication protocols necessary for managing the charging process.

Why is EVSE Important?

EVSE is critical for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. It ensures that EVs can be charged safely and efficiently at home, work, or on the go. As EVs increase, a robust and reliable charging infrastructure becomes essential. EVSE plays a pivotal role in meeting this demand and supporting the transition to sustainable transportation. A new feature, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functionality, has been introduced and it is becoming mandatory in some regions. In the future it is envisioned that EVs can also work as a backup battery for homes or even an energy reserve for the grid.

Key Considerations for EVSE

• Load Management: Commercial installations require balancing charging currents to maintain stable power distribution and prevent grid overload. In residential installations, load management is important to protect fuses/circuit breakers from tripping.
• Demand Response: In situations where the grid is under stress, Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and Transmission System Operators (TSOs) can use EV chargers as flexible loads, reducing strain on the grid by adjusting charging rates or temporarily halting charging.
• Identification: User and vehicle identification to prevent unauthorized charging. Users have identification must match the latest authorization database.
• Accurate Billing: Proper identification ensures that the correct EVSE unit is billed for the electricity consumed. This is essential for both the EV owner and the charging station operator to avoid discrepancies.

Addressing Today's Challenges with Wi-SUN FAN

• Communication Issues in Parking Garages: Traditional 2.4GHz wireless options often fail in parking garages due to obstructions, long distances, and scalability issues. Wi-SUN FAN operates on Sub-GHz frequencies, providing robust connectivity even in challenging environments like parking garages. Its multi-hop network capability ensures reliable communication over long distances and around obstacles
• Cost of Installation and Maintenance: Installing and maintaining wired communication systems is expensive and labor-intensive. Wi-SUN FAN reduces the need for extensive wiring by offering a wireless alternative that is easier and cheaper to install and maintain. This significantly lowers the overall costs for EVSE vendors and integrators
• Robust Connectivity: Ensuring stable and reliable connectivity in various environments is crucial for EVSE operations. Wi-SUN FAN provides a highly reliable and stable communication network through its multi-hop and mesh networking capabilities. This ensures continuous and efficient operation of EVSE systems

Leveraging existing network infrastructure is a smart business move that could transform more streetlights into convenient on-street charging points. However, utilities and smart cities must tackle the challenge of integrating multiple applications and vendors across a network that includes advanced metering infrastructure, intelligent transport systems, smart lighting, and more. EV charging will simply become another application to manage.

For the rollout of EV charging stations in smart cities, connectivity and interoperability are crucial. Wi-SUN FAN stands out as the only open standards-based communications network that ensures the necessary security, reliability, and interoperability.

With numerous vendors and applications converging on the same network, the broader adoption of Wi-SUN FAN is inevitable.

How EVSE and Wi-SUN FAN Work Together

Integrating EVSE with Wi-SUN FAN networks can significantly enhance the functionality and efficiency of EV charging infrastructure. Here's how:

• Enhanced Communication: Wi-SUN FAN enables seamless, real-time communication between EVSE units and the central management system improving the monitoring and control of the charging process.
• Scalability: The architecture of Wi-SUN FAN supports large-scale deployments, making it suitable for expanding EV charging networks in both urban and rural areas.
• Security: Security is crucial as chargers connect to local networks, exposing them to potential attacks. Wi-SUN FAN security mechanisms are built on widely used industry standards. Access control is based on IEEE 802.1X and IEEE 802.11i concepts, providing mutual authentication and establishment of a security association between the joining node and the Wi-SUN Border Router. Frame security uses AES-CCM* from IEEE 802.15.4, providing both data confidentiality and data authenticity.
• Interoperability: Wi-SUN FAN is based on open standards, ensuring compatibility with EVSE units from different manufacturers, and promoting cost-effective and flexible deployment.