As reported by the Financial Times last month (Report, January 17), December’s sales of electric cars in Europe overtook diesel models for the first time.
A smooth, seamless customer experience is critical for continued uptake. We need the right charger in the right place to maximise customer convenience while enabling optimal use of networks. But one 50kw rapid charger uses the same power as a 25-unit apartment block. So, if every driver plugged in their car simultaneously, could a reliable supply be ensured?
Timely investments in digitisation and the modernisation of Europe’s distribution grids will no doubt be critical. But grids should not be a cause of concern for e-mobility, according to a study by EY commissioned by Eurelectric, the association representing the value chain of the European electricity industry.
First, the scale of the impact will depend on the numbers, network characteristics, charging configurations, or even charging features of particular EVs.
Local energy storage, such as batteries, will also play a key role in alleviating grid pressure by doing what is called “peak shaving”.
Second, roughly 85 per cent of charging will be domestic. Smart chargers will make sure plugged EVs charge at optimal times. Eventually, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions will enable the electricity stored in EV batteries to be returned to the grid, or to a building.
We need to cut the red tape in all these areas to allow utilities, grid and charge point operators to facilitate the journey to clean, electric mobility.
Jean Bernard Lévy
President, Eurelectric, Brussels, Belgium
Letter: Cut red tape for utilities, grid and charger operators
Pinoy Variant