Virtual battery model paves way for electric vehicle simulations
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Studies on integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into local energy markets have been hindered by the high computational complexity associated with EV modelling. Seyed Mahoor Ebrahimi’s doctoral dissertation at the University of Vaasa overcomes these hurdles by introducing a streamlined virtual battery model and a cost-effective charger sharing concept.
Operating our power grid is like balancing on a tightrope: if electricity generation drifts out of sync with consumption, the entire system can collapse. Recent blackouts in Europe have shown how fragile this balance can be.
Seyed Mahoor Ebrahimi’s doctoral dissertation in electrical engineering examines how local energy markets enable distribution networks to operate more efficiently. This approach would allow distribution system operators to manage congestion and voltage issues more effectively, ultimately reducing investment costs for grid reinforcement.
– Traditionally, large power plants could keep the system in balance. As the share of variable renewable energy generation increases and EV charging becomes more common, we need much more flexibility in the system to keep the supply-demand balance, says Ebrahimi.
By enabling EVs and other local assets to actively participate in local energy markets, the system becomes more efficient. This leads to improved grid stability and higher financial savings, while simultaneously supporting the shift away from fossil fuels.
New solutions for charging infrastructure
Increasing EV charging demand can create new challenges like congestion issues in the distribution system. To turn this challenge into an opportunity, Ebrahimi’s work tries to utilize smart EV charging and discharging strategies to support the electricity distribution system. The proposed virtual battery model helps to model the EV parking lot integrated into the distribution system.
– Instead of modelling every car separately, the virtual battery approach allows the whole parking area to be treated as one energy storage unit. This reduces the computational complexity.
While Ebrahimi’s proposed charger sharing approach (charging multiple EVs with a single charger) serves as a blueprint for the future, it requires practical testing before it can be rolled out on a large scale.
– The next step is to validate these frameworks through pilot projects similar to those already running in the EU. If implemented, my results can contribute to integrating more variable renewables, managing EVs and building a reliable, low-carbon electricity system for the future, Ebrahimi summarises.
Dissertation
Ebrahimi, Seyed Mahoor (2025) Future Electricity Network Management: Effects and Possibilities of Local Markets and Electric Vehicles. Acta Wasaensia 575. Doctoral dissertation. University of Vaasa.
Public defence
The public examination of M.Sc. Seyed Mahoor Ebrahimi’s doctoral dissertation ”Future Electricity Network Management: Effect and Possibilities of Local Markets and Electric Vehicles” will be held on Monday 8 December 2025 at 12at the University of Vaasa, auditorium Nissi.
It is possible to participate in the defence also online:
https://uwasa.zoom.us/j/67423825645?pwd=ZnUaYBasodutamrAJaSbjL4mnytU0R.1
Password: 362182
Associate Professor Anh Tuan Le (Chalmers University of Technology) will act as opponent and Professor Hannu Laaksonen as custos.
Tietolaatikko
Further information
Seyed Mahoor Ebrahimi was born in 1993 in Sari, Iran. He completed a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the Amirkabir University of Technology in 2018. He currently works as a Senior Power System Analyst at Wärtsilä.