TTU Professor Says Weak Power Infrastructure Impacts Electric Vehicle Trend

As the trend of electric vehicles grows, some may question how rural power systems can handle the additional stress.

Especially considering the rolling blackouts initiated by TVA during December’s winter storm. Tennessee Tech Professor Pingen Chen said the Upper Cumberland has relatively weak power systems.

“If we don’t do it in a coordinated way with a significant number of electric vehicles charging on the grid, yes there could be an issue,” Chen said. “We just have to be aware of the power infrastructure weakness.”

Chen said power companies are working with federal and state leaders to improve the power infrastructure. Chen said upgrades are happening parallel to the growth of electric vehicles.

“Power companies such as TVA have been working on upgrading the infrastructure and making sure adding electric vehicles will not cause issues or interrupt power consumption,” Chen said. “Many of us may not see it, but there is a large group of power companies working to make sure the power infrastructure can withstand the consumption.”

Chen said there are techniques people can practice now that reduces stress on the power system. Chen said vehicles should be charged over night to avoid peak use hours. Chen said owners should also base charging cycles on inclement weather to avoid possible outages.