What is DLM?
Dynamic load management (DLM) is an algorithm used in CPMS platforms that optimizes electrical current distribution within a DLM group of chargers operating in the same electrical circuit. By monitoring non-managed power consumption and dynamically adjusting charging station output, DLM ensures efficient energy utilization while preventing grid overload. This approach helps businesses eliminate the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
DLM works with all OCPP-enabled charging stations. It can be integrated with energy management systems and smart meters for more granular load management. Additional DLM capabilities supported by some advanced CPMS platforms allow to set charging priorities, and favor specific users or charging stations based on predefined criteria, enhancing operational efficiency and user satisfaction. Another advanced option is that operators can configure multi-level DLM to reflect their site’s actual setup, with the algorithm considering the limits of each child circuit and its charge points while distributing available power accordingly, including user or charger priorities.
Importance of Dynamic Load Management (DLM) for Charge Point Operators (CPOs)
1. Grid Stability and Overload Prevention
DLM ensures that the total energy consumption of charging stations remains within site capacity, preventing grid overload. By dynamically adjusting power distribution, it mitigates the risk of electrical failures, ensuring uninterrupted charging operations.
2. Infrastructure Optimization and Cost Reduction
DLM optimizes the utilization of existing electrical infrastructure, reducing the need for costly upgrades while enabling efficient power distribution across multiple charge points.
3. Load Balancing for Charging Efficiency
Unmanaged power allocation among charging stations can lead to inefficiencies and increased wait times. DLM dynamically adjusts power distribution based on real-time demand, ensuring optimal charging performance and improving the overall user experience.
4. Scalability and Network Expansion
As CPOs scale their charging networks, grid limitations can restrict expansion. DLM enables the deployment of additional charge points within existing capacity constraints, facilitating network growth without exceeding site power limits.
5. Adaptive Energy Management
DLM prioritizes charging sessions based on predefined rules, such as time-of-use pricing, user priority levels, or available power. This adaptive approach allows CPOs to optimize energy distribution, manage peak demand, and improve operational efficiency.
DLM Implementation Approaches
DLM can be deployed via hardware-based (local) DLM or software-based (cloud) DLM solutions:
- Hardware-Based (Local) DLM
- Managed directly by a local controller or embedded in the charging station.
- Offers faster response times and more precise power distribution.
- Requires physical interconnection between charge points and a central control unit.
- Software-Based (Cloud) DLM
- Managed via a cloud-based charging management platform.
- Works with a wider range of charging station models and manufacturers.
- May have slightly slower response times due to network communication delays.
DLM Use Cases
Dynamic Load Management (DLM) is increasingly adopted by businesses to optimize energy distribution across electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, ensuring efficient utilization of existing electrical infrastructure and preventing grid overloads.
- Public Charging Networks: Ensures balanced energy distribution across multiple charging points in urban areas.
- Fleet Charging Depots: Manages large-scale EV fleet charging while maintaining grid stability.
- Workplace & Residential Charging: Enables multiple users to charge their EVs without exceeding site power limits.
Related Terms for DLM
1. CPMS
2. CPO
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