Vehicle to grid: driver plug-in patterns, their impact on the cost and carbon of charging, and implications for system flexibility

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) from electric vehicles (EVs) represents an opportunity to provide transitioning electricity systems with battery storage as they face increasing shares of variable renewable generation. However, whilst the availability V2G dispatchable depends on travel and charging habits drivers, there is scarce experience managing portfolios EVs in this way. This paper investigates impact plug-in frequency – given real-life data potential reduce i) consumer bills ii) carbon emissions charging. In doing so, we investigate extent which consumers are incentivised participate V2G, how might change based different behaviours, what implications for a asset. Two models behaviour input into time-coupled optimisation that schedules EV (dis)charging minimise net cost EV’s required energy gain within network constraints, simulating could be dispatched by ‘load controller’ liberalised market. The minimisation Octopus Agile tariff January 2021, matched GB grid intensity National Grid ESO same period. It was found that, basis time range studied, can average price paid EV-charging 28–67% versus flat lower end representing case where only plug when ‘need’ to, higher whenever their cars at home. also due weak positive correlation between during optimising resulted slight reductions 5–6% compared uncontrolled charging, cases before. Taking account review degradation costs using manner makes financial sense owner if maximise frequency; this, alongside increased savings, should incentive owners much possible thereby maximising resource low system.