Issue link: https://fhpublishing.uberflip.com/i/961476
NETWORK / 40 / APRIL 2018 ELECTRIC VEHICLES What is the most exciting possibility for V2G? PE: "Put simply, it's faster decarbonisation. V2G can operate amongst a mix of new technologies, helping homes to act as mini- power stations, generating clean electricity and storing it in home batteries and EVs." MN: "That's right, V2G is the missing link that can facilitate the transition to low carbon and efficient transport and power systems." MA: "Absolutely, V2G will enhance system flexibility and support us toward the UK carbon reduction target at a lower cost." PE: "This could also have significant impli - cations for supporting vulnerable custom- ers. In a power cut, we will have access to a more flexible selection of electricity sources to get the lights back on for those most in need as fast as possible. We may even be able to use EVs to maintain power Roundtable: the benefits, challenges and future of V2G Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology – the idea of providing balancing and flexibility services using EV battery stores that connect directly to the grid – has captured imaginations across the industry, government and academia alike. In light of this momentum, Northern Powergrid brought together four leading thinkers to debate this highly-tipped innovation. supply for our vulnerable customers during network outages. And finally, V2G can help decentralise energy generation to reduce the distances power has to be transported." FC: "What's more, V2G technology can al - low EV customers to become active energy market players, generating extra revenue whilst staying in control of their energy needs." What is the biggest barrier for V2G in the UK? MA: "Regulation for those considering investing in V2G charging points is currently unclear. This may prevent potentially attrac- tive business cases materialising." PE: "And once that hurdle is overcome, we must tackle behaviour change. To date the industry has developed a new version of the petrol pump, where cars are quickly filled with power and are driven until near-empty when the refuelling process begins again. We think V2G means that charging at a "pet- rol station" will become the norm only for long trips and people will charge at home, at work and in public car parks. We need to be thinking differently and asking: What is the incentive to leave the vehicle plugged- in when full or nearly full? £20 a month? £200? For some, it might not be financial at all. This leads into a second barrier, the 'investment tipping point'. One of the most important things that will come out of the trials is the assessment of the energy saving vs the cost. Can we deliver more for less for our customers? Another barrier is to do with critical mass. If you can participate in V2G anywhere, then there may be an incentive to buy a V2G capable vehicle and sign up. But if it's only in certain places, will you know where they are?"