Smart solution to EV charging 22 | 03 | 2017
ELECTRIC CAR OWNERS in Scotland have been told that they should avoid charging their vehicles at certain times of the day to reduce demand on the UK’s power grid. The warning from a Department of Transport minister comes as demand for electric vehicles is increasing across the country. (Related: Roadtest — Renault Zoe R90 Z.E 40)
It would appear the reality of pushing for more alternative vehicles to take to the UK’s roads is finally beginning to raise infrastructure concerns in the Government, especially is motorists are drawn towards a particular time of day when it comes to recharging.
“We know the demand for electric vehicles places the national grid under pressure,” John Hayes MP, speaking at a forum hosted by Policy Connect on the future of electric vehicles in the UK, said.
“It’s critically important – we are working on this. It’s particularly important that we charge smart, so we flex demand and take advantage of spare capacity”.
And while Hayes reaffirmed Government plans to vastly increase the number of public electric car charging points, rather bizarrely he added that the “aesthetics of electric charging points should be taken as a major consideration”.
In what could be seen as another Government populist exercise, the minister is considering launching a design competition for the next generation of charging points.
The forum was also told that an alternative solution, which would see electric vehicles recharged overnight rather than at peak times, is being sought.
Research from energy firm SSE highlighted that most electric car owners recharge their cars immediately after work when they get home, meaning a surge in demand during peak energy hours.
Speaking to delegates, Stewart Reid, head of asset management at SSE, confirmed the energy company would prefer to see the introduction of a timed electric vehicle charging infrastructure which would work as a “plug-in overnight” system.
Such smart charging, Reid explained, would reduce pressure on the UK power grid during peak hours and spread out demand.
Related: Jaguar I-Pace hits the streets
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/Scotcars
Jim McGill