Electric Vehicles: A Catalyst for Australia's Net Zero Emissions Ambitions

Electric vehicles (EVs), renowned for their zero-emissions advantage, are seeing an uptick in popularity in Australia. However, the impending challenge revolves around adapting EV charging patterns to fit the country's shifting energy dynamics.

Research undertaken by the University of Queensland (UQ) underscores the need for a shift in EV charging habits. As Dr. Andrea La Nauze, UQ environmental economist, puts it: "But as we get more and more of our electricity coming from the sun, we're going to want to shift people's charging towards the middle of the day when we have lots of electricity available, and away from times when we all get home and switch on the TV and air conditioner."

This changing trend is evident among rooftop solar owners. "People with rooftop solar are charging a lot more during the middle of the day," Dr. La Nauze observed. This pattern, she emphasized, is promising for the future of EV charging and its potential to bolster a renewable grid.

Retirees like Robin Claessen, an owner of two electric vehicles and rooftop solar, epitomize this shift. He explains the financial advantage of daytime charging with his statement: "The return on investment was much greater if we self-consume as much as we can. So, the more I can plug into the car, the better it is." However, Claessen highlighted the need for broader charging infrastructure, particularly at workplaces. He proposes employers offer solar-powered charging facilities to enable daytime EV charging.

UQ researchers are pushing boundaries further by exploring the potential of utilizing EVs as "batteries on wheels." Dr. La Nauze elaborates on the vision: "That's the goal; that we can use these electric vehicles as batteries on wheels to bring down the costs of the transition. For example, it could be that your car just powers your home, it could be that your car is capable of exporting to the grid."

Echoing this sentiment, Claessen expressed enthusiasm for the prospect of using his EVs to power his home during the night, charging them during daylight hours. "I would love to do that: charge during the day and use it at night — perfect, absolutely," he stated.

The government, recognizing the synergy between EVs and solar energy, is actively liaising with the industry. The aim? Designing a comprehensive household battery program that enables homes to maximize the benefits of rooftop solar through innovative battery installations.

Electric vehicles are not merely transport solutions but are emerging as critical components in Australia's renewable energy ecosystem. As research advances and public adoption grows, EVs can indeed be the linchpin in the nation's quest for a net-zero emissions future.

Source: ABC News, Posted 6 Sep 2023
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-06/electric-vehicle-charging-peak-electricity-times-solar-power/102817054