Nissan-Backed Study Claims V2G Eco Benefits

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

7th January 2021

Research into the benefits of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) EV charging is claiming reduced C02 emissions aiding the campaign to slow global warming.

A white paper, backed by carmaker Nissan, E.ON Drive and Imperial College London, claims the bi-directional charging capability of plug-in EVs is so beneficial that more incentives should be offered by governments and local authorities to accelerate widespread adoption of V2G charging systems. The study also addresses “the challenges that will be faced in the early days of V2G, particularly around creating a reliable business case in the context of evolving energy markets and regulation”.

The study’s backers are partners in a commercial fleet V2G project known as e4Future, which hopes to show how electric vans and cars can support the UK’s grid and provide a profitable and sustainable solution for business fleets. Key insights from the study include:

The potential for reducing carbon emissions from the power system to as low as -243gCO2/km;
Electricity system operation cost savings of up to £12,000 ($16,288) annual for every EV and CO2 reduction of approximately 60 tons for each vehicle;
Annual fleet V2G charging benefits could range between £700-£1,250 ($950-$1,696) per vehicle.

Andrew Humberstone, managing director of Nissan Motor GB, said: “There is enormous potential in vehicle-to-grid to deliver huge savings, both in financial terms for electricity system operators and vehicle fleets, and in environmental terms, by significantly cutting CO2 emissions across the UK power system.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_

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