Northpower to test V2G

A trial to determine if EVs and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems will ease peak demand on electricity networks will be held by Northpower during the next year.

A Nissan Leaf with two-way charging capability will be provided to participants and the V2G system installed in their homes, Northpower says, adding it will monitor energy use over the 12 months and the net impact on the network.

The V2G battery has the advantage of also being a backup for the household in the event of a power cut.

The trial will proceed now that the government’s low emission vehicles contestable fund has provided $13,200 co-funding for it, the project among 21 successful applicants.

The project will use the latest V2G equipment designed for use in residential installations to measure how this new technology can benefit both consumers and the electricity distribution network, Northpower says.

Northpower Network general manager Josie Boyd is delighted the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority administered fund is supporting the project, which is a partnership with equipment maker Nichicon and the University of Canterbury.

“Not only is this an opportunity for our consumers to gain first-hand experience with these new technologies, but it is important that we build our understanding of the impact that EVs will have on the electricity networks and how customer technologies can ultimately help reduce costs for all network users,” Boyd says.

“This is particularly important as electric vehicles become more popular and have the potential to increase demand on our network. The traditional response is to build more infrastructure to meet the demand peaks. But we hope to show with a real example that new technologies like V2G and EVs can help by shaving those peaks by providing an alternative energy source.”

Northpower intends sharing trial results and lessons during the next year.