Smart charging explained
What is smart charging and how does it work?
Smart EV charging is a system in which the mobility device and charging device share a data connection, while the charging device and charging operator also share a data connection. when the vehicle is charging. Essentially, sharing a data connection allows data transfers to take place between the mobility device, charging device and charging operator. This is important because the loader will send the loading operator crucial information that will allow the loading operator to optimize loading. This feature allows it to communicate with cars, the power grid and the EV charging infrastructure such as other chargers.
Smart charging works by connecting users and operators alike. Every time an electric vehicle is connected, data / information is transmitted (via WiFi / Bluetooth) to the central cloud management system. This information can consist of local network capacity, how energy is being used at the charging location, how many other vehicles are being charged, or information about electrical devices being used in a nearby location (to ensure the charger does not overload the grid ). This functionality means that he and his operators are able to self-regulate how he delivers electricity.
This data is then automatically visualized and analyzed in real time by the software behind the platform. This can help decide how and when EVs are loaded. EV has to be smart to create a more sustainable energy system based on renewable energy, as EVs can be charged when there is a surplus of electricity on the grid.
Smart charging features:
- Smart charging is designed to reduce and manage the impact of EVs on the electrical system. It ensures a balance between energy supply and demand, moving energy away from existing peaks. and flatten the curve as shown in the illustration below. This takes pressure off the electrical system at peak times.
- You can check which charging stations are free in advance or even book sessions. If you have a home charging station, you can make it available to others for additional income.
- The use of smart technology means that your vehicle’s charging sessions can be scheduled during off-peak hours; at these times, energy tariffs are lower, resulting in lower prices for consumers.
- Smart technology can also minimize our carbon footprint – scheduling to charge when renewable resources are plentiful in supply, for example.
- Most charging points are compatible with a smartphone app which can provide charging status / Kwh / money spent / saved with smart charging, which can help save energy and money.
- Smart charging reduces the need for heavy investments in the grid as EVs can be used as electricity storage (1).
How much does it cost and the time needed to charge it:
Home charging is the most economical way to charge an electric vehicle. The average electricity tariff is 17p per kWh. To charge a 60kWh EV at its full (empty) capacity it will typically cost around £9.20-£9.90 (2). This allows the electric vehicle to drive up to 200 miles.
Using a 7kWh charger, the complete charging process can take about 8 hours (2) Some people find it beneficial to fully charge the car overnight so that it is charged and ready for the next day. For many cars it is also possible to charge in short bursts (you can supplement your car with 100 miles of autonomy in 35 minutes using a 50kWh quick charger). Recharge charging in public areas / workspaces (range 7kWh-22kWh) making them ideal for charging recharge. Charging time depends on the size of the car battery as well as the speed of the the charging point.
Forms:
Smart charging has other applications in markets such as robotics, automated businesses and smart cities. Robot-based loading systems are an exciting new concept (developed by Volkswagen) that has the potential to make a big step forward in the fields of robotics as well as smart charging. Other suitable investments in smart charging infrastructure can support smart cities through energy management and powering autonomous vehicles.
Government and subsidies:
If you decide to install a smart charging point in your home, you may be eligible for financing as part of the EVHS (Electric Vehicle HomeCharge Scheme) for customers. As of July 1, 2019, theEVHS will only support smart charging points as announced in December 2018 (3). They are available to homeowners and can cover up to 75% of the capital costs of setting up a charging point (the limit is £350). The main requirement is that you own / rent / have ordered a qualifying vehicle and have dedicated / dedicated off-street parking on your property (4). You can find out more about this scheme by clicking the link here.
Fonts used:
- https://www.virta.global/smart-charging#four (Virta, 2021)
- https://wallbox.com/en_us/faqs-what-is-smart-charging (flush box, 2021)
- https://www.lewelectrical.co.uk/2020/01/16/smart-charging-electric-vehicles/ (Lew electrical distributors, 2020)
- https://driivz.com/blog/ev-smart-charging-benefits/ (driivz, 2020)
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