-
Kerala Pilot Project: KSEB, partnered with IIT Bombay, launched a V2G pilot project to assess feasibility in the state. This is important because it signals growing interest and investment in V2G tech in India.
-
V2G Definition: V2G enables EVs to send stored electricity back to the grid when idle, acting as decentralized energy storage. It’s important because it leverages EV batteries to potentially balance energy supply and demand.
-
Bi-directional Flow: V2G involves both G2V (charging) and V2G (discharging), creating a two-way energy flow. This is important because it offers flexibility in grid management.
-
Grid Support: V2G stabilizes the grid by storing surplus energy and supplying it during peak
demand, reducing strain on power stations. This is important for grid reliability and efficiency. -
Renewable Energy Integration: V2G helps overcome the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources by using EV batteries as distributed storage. This is vital for broader adoption of renewables.
-
Global Traction: V2G is gaining traction in mature EV markets (Europe, US) with pilot projects and incentives for owners to supply power back to the grid.
-
India’s Nascent Stage: V2G is in early stages in India, with focus on EV charging infrastructure integration and pilot projects planned by DISCOMs.
-
Regulatory Changes Needed: India needs supportive regulatory changes to mainstream V2G due to the current electricity market structure’s limitations.
-
KSEB Project Goals: Kerala’s project aims to assess EVs’ ability to support the grid during peak demand, particularly when solar energy is unavailable, addressing concerns about rising electricity demand from EVs.
-
Potential for Utilities: V2G and smart charging can turn EV integration from a challenge to
an opportunity for DISCOMs, encouraging charging during high solar generation and using EVs for storage. -
Emergency Power:V2G provides decentralised storage for emergency and crisis situation and is actively being planned and tested in different regions like California.
