The aim of the activity is to determine the expectations and needs of Polish and Slovak consumers related to electric vehicles and public charging infrastructure, as well as connections between the electricity network and charging services. Market and user surveys, interviews with industry experts and workshops have been conducted. As a result, recommendations have been made regarding the further development of charging infrastructure, taking into account the differences between individual countries.

In order for the charging network to serve users well, it is necessary to optimize the deployment of stations in Poland and Slovakia and to implement an appropriate IT system. The network is to be reliable in operation and focus on customer expectations and satisfaction, as well as building positive experiences.

In Slovakia, 10 fast charging stations have been deployed. There already exists fast charging stations network in Slovakia, which has been grown and strengthened cross border connections with Poland and Czech Republic.

In Poland, a nationwide network of fast chargers have been created enabling the country to connect with the infrastructure of electrified roads in Slovakia, Germany, the Czech Republic and Lithuania. In each charging location, AC / Type 2, DC / Combo 2 and DC / CHAdeMO charging standards are available. Stations are located:
1. in cities located along the main transport corridors – they  facilitate daily city traffic by electric vehicle
2. along the TEN-T transport corridors – they are enable travelling between cities and strengthen connections between countries

In some places, there is an increased demand for charging services. Mainly, these are in centres of large cities with heavy traffic. Installation of energy storage there are shorten the waiting time for charging and reduce the load on the power grid while increasing access to charging services for users. As part of the project, three storage units have been installed in Slovakia, they  complete the charging infrastructure being built in this country.

The quality of the infrastructure and services offered are key factors in the success of the entire project. Providing high-quality charging services requires the implementation of not only a well-thought-out fast charging network but also a high-quality information system that  allow for full operation within its own and its roaming partners’ networks. Ensuring this  require setting standards for the design and installation of fast charging stations, and determining quality assurance procedures, as well as continuous compliance.
This  created a homogeneous and operational network, as well as a number of good practices providing a set of measurable reference levels for further planning and implementation of charging infrastructure.

The development of every activity and the dissemination of innovative technologies and solutions requires popularization and promotion. As part of the project, actions have been implemented aimed at broad communication and dissemination of project results.

This activity has been ensured that the project objectives are fulfilled and that project deliverables are delivered on time and in line with the budget and project plan.

The study analyzed the technical and economic impact of high-power charging infrastructure on the electric grid.

The study defined and optimized the network deployment, ICT supported business processes with a focus on customer experience and preferences and defined the long term massive rollout plan for various types of charging services.

To increase the efficiency of the fast charging network in Poland, 10 ultra-fast charging stations (UFCHS) were installed, able to charge up to 350 kW.

Also in Slovakia, the efficiency of fast charging network was increased thanks to the installation of 3 ultra-fast charging stations (UFCHS) that can charge up to 350 kW.

The fast charging network in Poland became denser and improved thanks to the installation of additional 60 fast charging stations. Chargers are located along the main transport corridors, with the focus on large cities located on the TEN-T routes due to the expected rapid increase in the number of electric vehicles in cities. Fully operational and integrated into the European roaming network, the Polish charging network improved national and international possibilities of electric travelling.

Intermodal locations are places where you can easily change from one type of transport to another. Most often they are found in big cities, although efficient urban transport requires their creation even in smaller centres. Often, such points allow you to change from a private car to public transport. In several such places, 50 AC charging stations were installed in Poland.

Also in Slovakia, 20 AC chargers (up to 22 kW) were installed at intermodal points.

In points where there is a high demand for fast charging services in Poland, energy storage facilities accompanying charging stations were installed enabling shortening the waiting time and relieving the power grid.

In order to complete the project on time within the framework and the budget, proper management was ensured by setting rules, managing risk and maintaining an appropriate organizational structure.

As part of the project, various actions were implemented aimed to broadly communicate and disseminate project results.

SCALING UP
Electric Vehicle Charging Network Development. Experiences from Central & Eastern Europe