Surge Protection of Residential EV Charging Stations Against Direct Lightning Strikes

Abstract:
A typical three-story building equipped with a residential electrical vehicle charging station is modelled within the ATP-EMTP environment. Fast-front overvoltages affecting each component of the modelled electrical installation, particularly the charger and the car, are calculated for direct negative lightning strikes to the air termination system of the installation. The assessment of the risk of failure involves examining the rated impulse withstand voltage levels of distribution boards, the residential EV charger, and the plugged car. This evaluation considers the impacts of lightning peak current and soil resistivity. A protection scheme involving the installation of surge protective devices is investigated so as to diminish the risk of failure to equipment and car. The energy absorption capability of surge protective devices is assessed and the necessity of dedicated surge protection for electric cars is discussed.