Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies
In February 2018, the Department for Transport announced a new £30 million investment in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies that have been described as ‘revolutionary’. It is hoped that the new technologies will unlock the potential for electric vehicles to help power homes, as electricity can be delivered back to the smart grid.
As part of the government’s Industrial Strategy, set out in the Automotive Sector Deal, funding has been awarded to 21 V2G projects including EDF Energy’s V2GO scheme. This scheme aims to demonstrate how energy stored in electric vehicle batteries could be ‘borrowed’ during peak hours by the electricity system, and then be recharged during off-peak times.
It is hoped that by using electric vehicles in dense urban areas like Oxford, local emissions will be significantly reduced and air quality improved. The V2GO scheme is a large scale demonstration of V2G charging using 100 electric fleet vehicles (cars and vans) from a number of organisations.
The project will develop, trial and evaluate potential business models for fleet operators’ use of electric vehicles and their suitability for vehicle to grid (V2G) charging.
The assessment process for the funding has been concluded by Innovate UK, with almost £30m of government money being granted to industry-led collaborative R&D for up to 70% of project costs.
Transport Minister, Jesse Norman said:
“As the number of electric vehicles grows and their battery capabilities increase, there is a huge opportunity for them to make a significant contribution to a smart grid.
“These projects are at the cutting edge of their field. Just like the visionary designs of Brunel and Stephenson in transport, they could revolutionise the ways in which we store and manage electricity, both now and in the future.”
Dan Bentham, Head of R&D, Smart Customers, EDF Energy said:
“Electric vehicles will play an important role in the future of UK energy and its economy. They will have a beneficial impact on the environment by reducing emissions and improving air quality.
“Through our research, EDF Energy will use new technologies, business models and smart systems to make low carbon transport, and the infrastructure and market conditions needed for its success, a reality.”
(Ref. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/30-million-investment-in-revolutionary-v2g-technologies)
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.