Charging EVs at Night Might Become More Expensive

September 23, 2022 By Prelo Con

(Image Credit Google)

One benefit of owning an electric vehicle is the ability to charge it overnight while parked in your driveway. Since there is typically little demand for electricity, prices are generally low, making it both handy and affordable for many individuals. But since more people are purchasing electric vehicles, the need for charging EVs overnight is increasing, which might increase the cost of electricity, according to a new study released today. The study published in Nature Energy and conducted by Stanford University stated that the surge in EV ownership in the western US could result in peak net electricity demand increases of up to 25% by 2035, the year that California announced it would outlaw the sale of gas-powered vehicles and trucks. Charging EVs at Night

Furthermore, the team claims that under a "stress test" scenario where every vehicle on the road is a plug-in model, that demand might increase by as much as 50%. Plus, prices rise as a result of increased demand. Therefore the heyday of inexpensive overnight charging may be coming to an end. Moreover, the study's authors advise vehicle owners to charge more during the day at work or at public charging stations to better prepare for a future with more EVs. And as additional renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, come online, this becomes even more crucial. Charging EVs at Night

According to the study, "In the future grid with higher renewable generation, timing is more important, and net demand tells a different story than total demand. So, shifting drivers from home to daytime charging improves all metrics of grid impact, including ramping, use of non-fossil fuel generation, storage requirements, and emissions. This insight is robust across varying levels of EV adoption."

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Even though California has the most registered EVs on the road today—roughly 1 million plug-in models, or around 6% of all vehicles—this is undoubtedly a national issue. The study's principal author, Siobhan Powell, said in an email, "All states may need to rethink electricity pricing structures as their EV charging needs increase and their grid changes." Besides, switching more US drivers to plug-in power is essential to decreasing pollution, cutting carbon emissions, and combating climate change. But a lot of obstacles still remain. For instance, compared to gas-powered versions, EVs are more expensive and, as of now, more difficult to find. Plus, the US's faulty charging infrastructure might prevent EV adoption from becoming more widespread. Additionally, there are issues with the supply chain due to the strong demand for the materials required for lithium-ion batteries. Charging EVs at Night

On another note, the Biden administration has recognized charging as a special problem, investing billions of dollars in building more chargers nationwide, including DC fast chargers that can charge an EV much more quickly than normal Level 2 chargers. However, there is less focus on proper grid management, which will become more of a problem as EV sales increase. Plus, the business case for building more charging stations is further complicated by the fact that demand charges from utility providers frequently account for the majority of charging firms' operational costs. Plus, based on the amount of charge they offer, the overall cost of electricity is higher. So, if the government wishes to encourage the EV charging industry, they need to revise these estimates.

By Prelo Con

Following my passion by reviewing latest tech. Just love it.

Charging EVs at Night Might Become More Expensive

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