• Niall Riddell, CEO & Co-founder at Paua & co-host Chris Sass discuss the concept of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. They are joined by Claire Miller, an Independent Advisor and Consultant and UK expert on V2G.
• Link in blog to full episode

V2G -  the technology involved, the trial conducted, and the challenges faced

135 participants took part in a project to prove the integration of smart charging for electric vehicles. The project initially offered rewards for participants who completed a certain number of charging sessions, but later transitioned to a tariff system. Compliance was good once trust was established, and early adopters were engaged.

The mass market response and the affordability of the tariffs are still uncertain. The trial focused on single-family dwellings and there are no current trials for multi-dwelling units. The development of technology at scale is needed to enable different use cases and allow the energy system to adapt.

‍The market for V2G

‍The market for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology is evolving rapidly, with various players and factors involved. The UK market, for example, offers opportunities for participation in the National Grid balancing mechanism as well as local market services. There are also changes in wholesale markets that will allow non-energy retailers to participate in Flex opportunities. Auto manufacturers, who are already focused on electrifying vehicles, now face the challenge of developing energy strategies and navigating the changing market. Revenue sharing is an important aspect, with customers needing to be rewarded for their engagement in V2G markets. Smart charging and the export of energy are additional avenues for revenue generation. Charge point manufacturers also have a role to play as gateways to flexibility.

‍V2G - the impact on battery health

‍The use of V2G technology for electric vehicles can have positive impacts on battery health and warranty. Gentle discharging and charging cycles are beneficial for battery chemistry, reducing degradation and improving longevity. Education is needed to understand the differences between EV propulsion technologies and traditional engines. The user experience for V2G programs is designed to be simple and minimal, with set-and-forget apps that require minimal interaction. Compliance with plugging in EVs is high, with 80-90% compliance observed in a study. V2G technology is essentially a form of energy storage, similar to static batteries or solar panels exporting energy via smart meters. Claire, who has a background in mechanical engineering, was chosen for her experience in running complex engineering challenges and understanding consumer behaviour.

‍The potential dominance of DC over AC

‍A subject sometimes discussed in V2G circles is the potential dominance of DC over AC in the future, and the challenges and benefits involved. Claire is keen to mention other startups she is working with, including Electric Green, who are developing wireless charging for fleets and additional battery packs for vans, respectively. Claire also highlighted several interesting companies and technologies in the field of renewable energy and clean tech including those working in battery swap and range extension solutions for take-home fleets, simplified state of health certificates for second hand vehicles, cracking ammonia as an off-grid electricity source, and faster drones for maintenance applications.

To listen to this episode, find it on the Insiders Guide To Energy site here