V2G: A feature-rich tech that requires a wider adoption

Source:https://www.energybite.co.in/blog-post/v2g-a-feature-rich-tech-that-requires-a-wider-adoption/

A game-changing technology, V2G allows unused energy of an EV to be supplied back to the power grid. In that sense, it also paves the way towards a greener future by creating an extra source of energy. V2G can also prove to be a boon for EV manufacturers and real estate sector because of its other inherent benefits. The need, therefore, is for wider adoption of this technology of the future.

An accelerating technology in electric vehicles and smart grids has led to the evolution of a concept, called Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). It is a game-changing technology that, along with smart charging, has the potential of transforming the energy system as we know it. V2G is a technology that allows unused energy of an EV to be supplied back to the power grid. A V2G charging station can charge and discharge an EV according to the energy produced and the energy consumed.

V2G technology uses the energy stored in the battery of an EV to balance the power supply in the grid. If the energy produced is in surplus, then the charging station will carry out the charging in the normal course. But if the power supply is less than the demand, it will push back the energy from an EV’s battery pack to the grid to balance the energy variations.

• V2G is a technology that allows unused energy of an EV to be supplied back to the power grid.
• The V2G charging station first discharges the EV connected to it and then supplies the discharged energy to the nearest point.
• V2G technology uses the energy stored in the battery of an EV to balance the power supply in the grid.
• Nissan Leaf was the first EV compatible with V2G technology. More and more car manufacturers are now trying to adopt this technology.
• V2G can create an extra source of power when weather-dependent renewable energy sources are not available.

The V2G EV charging stations are now being installed in the parking lots of offices and shopping malls next to the normal EV charging points. For an EV to be connected to a V2G charging station, it must be fully charged. The V2G charging station first discharges the EV connected to it and then supplies the discharged energy to the nearest point where energy is required. The discharged energy from an EV battery can be utilised to charge other EVs in the parking lot. This discharged energy can also be used to power lights and air- conditioning systems in office and other complexes.

But it is to be noted that all electric vehicles are not V2G-compatible. Japanese automaker Nissan was among the first to provide this technology in its EVs. Nissan Leaf was the company’s first EV compatible with V2G technology. More and more car manufacturers are now trying to adopt this technology. Recently, Mitsubishi also announced entry into the V2G market with its Outlander EV.

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The future of electricity is renewable. Electricity generated from solar and wind energy is environment-friendly. This helps not only to curb pollution levels in the environment but also reduce global warming. In that regard, V2G technology is also a step towards a greener future. It can create an extra source of power when weather-dependent renewable energy sources are not available. V2G gives power to the consumers and the companies to minimise the cost of electricity by diverting the electricity throughout the power grid.

V2G technology has an added advantage of reducing the total cost of an EV. Vehicle manufacturers can aim at increasing their sales by providing this additional feature of V2G technology in their EVs. V2G technology can also help the real estate sector in balancing out the electricity demand and avoiding any unnecessary cost for building an electricity system. Overall, V2G is a technology replete with all-round benefits and, therefore, needs increased adoption.

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