Smart Charging

Scenario 1: Integration of Smart Charging for Public EV Chargers

Charging Dilemmas: Fairness and Frugality in a Social Housing Community

Rosa lives in a neighbourhood with mostly social housing, where many residents have switched to using electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce fuel costs. Public charging stations in the area have recently been upgraded with smart charging technology, which is managed by an Automated Decision-Making (ADM) system. This system controls the speed and timing of each car’s charging based on how much electricity the grid can handle and how urgently each car needs to be charged.

After her shift as a nurse, Rosa plugs in her Electric Vehicle at one of the public charging stations. The charging station displays a message: "Due to high demand, charging will be slower. Estimated time to full charge: 3 hours. You can choose priority charging for an additional €2,- fee."

As Rosa considers paying the extra fee, another notification appears: "If you choose slower charging, the saved energy could help a nearby resident who relies on medical equipment. Would you like to proceed with slower charging?"

Rosa feels conflicted. She needs her car to be ready for work the next morning but also knows that by choosing the slower option, she could help someone with urgent medical needs. She decides to go for the slower charge, hoping her choice will support her neighbour while still allowing her car to be fully charged by morning.

Meanwhile, Marcus, another resident, also plugs in his Electric Vehicle but opts for the priority charging option. He has an important meeting early in the morning and needs his car fully charged as soon as possible. While Marcus understands the potential community benefit of slower charging, he feels it's unfair to ask people with tight schedules to sacrifice their own needs.