Electric Vehicles Integration in Island Systems – Challenges and Innovative Solutions : Case study of Reunion Island

Abstract: Nowadays, the matters of global warming along with fossil fuels depletion are more and more on our agenda. The energetic worldwide issue is an even more important stake than ever before. A change from thermal to electrical mobility could be an option to reduce both the use of fossil fuels and CO2 emissions. There are currently large public debates around the world on this sensitive topic. In France, political signals are being set to promote the deployment of electric vehicles, considered as a key solution for sustainable transport development given that the French electricity generation is characterized by a particularly low carbon emission. Nevertheless, the context of isolated systems and notably French islands is definitely specific. Compared to continental areas, the grids are fragile, the electricity generation costs are high and the part of fossil fueled power plants is significant. Consequently, the e-mobility development in these particular territories has to face unique challenges from technical, economic and environmental points of view. The goal of this master thesis is to develop and integrate innovative charging solutions based on both renewable energies with storage and smart grid technologies aiming at making possible the electric vehicles integration in island electric systems and reducing their economic and ecologic impact. Reunion Island, one of the French overseas departments, will be used as a case study and an illustration of the benefits of these different innovations.