The Economic Impact of Emissions Caps on Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

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2010-06

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The Ohio State University

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Abstract

This thesis explores the trade-off between cost and emissions of electric transport by limiting plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to being no dirtier than conventional vehicles (CVs). We accomplish this by solving a unit commitment model of the Texas power system. The model was solved using a lagrangian relaxation technique and a sub-gradient algorithm. The results of the model show that PHEVs are a cost effective alternative to CVs regardless of emissions constraints. When the emissions restrictions are imposed PHEVs cost approximately \$460 less per year per vehicle to drive than CVs, and approximately \$3 more per year per vehicle to drive than when emissions restrictions are not imposed. Imposing emissions restrictions allows net CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions to be significantly reduced for a small economic trade off. These reductions come from shifting coal generation to natural gas generation. These results are specific to the Texas power system and are highly influenced by the generation mix.

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Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, PHEV, lagrangian relaxation, subgradient algorithm

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