Overnight Charging Of Electric Cars Ok For Grid

6/30/2009 10:00:00 PM

Proper incentives will ensure no new power plant construction….

Rensselaer, NY, June 29, 2009 -- The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) reports that it is looking at how the adoption of electric vehicles might impact the power grid of New York State. In a briefing paper, Alternate Route: Electrifying the Transportation Sector, the NYISO provides a preliminary look at the potential impact of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) on New York State’s electricity system.  “PHEVs and other electric-powered vehicles hold the promise of significant environmental and economic benefits,” said Stephen G. Whitley, NYISO President and CEO. “If New York motorists start plugging-in significant numbers of PHEVs, we will see new demands on the grid. However, if deployed with technology and incentives to encourage favorable charging patterns, PHEVs can offer valuable new ways to store electricity produced in off-peak periods. That energy storage potential could enhance the grid’s use of wind power,” Whitley explained. Wind power projects tend to produce more electricity in the early morning hours, a period when current demand for electricity is relatively low.  .  The NYISO paper notes that off-peak charging would be encouraged by the deployment of Smart Grid/Advanced Metering Initiatives in combination with appropriate rate design. PHEV prospects have been enhanced by public policy developments encouraging electric-drive vehicles. Plug-ins are expected to be rolled out to consumers in significant numbers in the next few years. President Barack Obama has called for a million plug-in hybrids on U.S. roads by 2015.

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PHEV electric vehicle