Integrated Networks Model Cuts Costs and Emissions with EV Power-to-Gas

⚡ AI Executive Summary

A new optimization framework coordinates the operation of electricity, natural gas, and district heating networks by treating electric vehicle parking lots as distributed energy resources. The system uses vehicle batteries to support a power-to-gas facility that converts surplus electricity into synthetic natural gas and heat for network injection, while using robust optimization to handle price volatility. The multi-objective approach balances total system operating costs with parking operator profitability and carbon reduction targets. For power system planners, this work illustrates how vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology can enhance energy sector coupling and create new revenue streams for EV infrastructure operators. By converting intermittent renewable electricity into storable gas and thermal energy, such integrated systems could reduce the need for conventional peaking capacity and improve seasonal energy flexibility. The bi-level framework also demonstrates how competitive incentives between network operators and distributed resources can be aligned to serve broader decarbonization goals, a critical consideration as utilities design market mechanisms for the emerging distributed energy ecosystem.