The idea of this paper is to open the discussion of how we can bring energy to the EV charging stations, especially in remote areas and near to highways where the medium voltage is not available nearby or needs to be upgraded to supply the power needed from the EV charging stations.

The Micro substation was developed to support the fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) charging ecosystem. It eliminates the need for traditional medium voltage grid reinforcements by tapping directly into existing Very High Voltage overhead lines. This allows for immediate access to high-capacity power, even in geographically isolated areas such as in highways corridors.

A study done in Portugal identified about 1700 potential locations for Micro substation, crossing the information from the high voltage transmission lines and the highways, with no grid reinforcements needed.

The solution is a compact substation equipped with High voltage /Low Voltage transformers and a modular design that supports scalable power delivery. The system is engineered for flexibility, with a mobile version that can be transported and installed with minimal civil works. This mobility makes it also possible for temporary deployments, where reliable power is critical but permanent infrastructure is not feasible.

The Micro Substation also integrates high voltage products that utilize clean air insulation or oil insulation — offering a sustainable, SF₆-free alternative with zero global warming potential for the insulation. This aligns with the environmental goals, where climate resilience and emissions reduction are strategic priorities.

By leveraging the existing transmission grid, the Micro Substation enables fast, cost-effective electrification of remote operations, reducing reliance medium voltage reinforcement. It also supports hybrid energy systems, integrating seamlessly with renewables such as solar or wind, further enhancing sustainability.

This paper will showcase the technical architecture, deployment scenarios, and real-world demonstration results of the Micro Substation, including its successful implementation in Portugal. It will also explore its potential to transform energy access into remote areas, supporting national decarbonization goals while enhancing operational efficiency and energy security.