Source: The Hindu
A pilot project has been started by the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and the Kerala State Electricity Board to investigate the state-wide deployment of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. The goal of this partnership is to determine whether integrating electric vehicles into the state’s electrical system is feasible.
The technologies that allow EV batteries to return electricity to the grid are referred to as V2G. An EV can function as a decentralized battery energy storage device while it is not in use. An idle EV can benefit the distribution grid if it is linked to a bi-directional charger. EVs present a chance to assist a demand-responsive market and ease the incorporation of renewable energy by integrating V2G technologies.
In developed EV markets like the US and Europe, it has become very popular. Owners of EVs are encouraged to return power to the grid, making them an affordable type of distributed energy storage. EV owners in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom receive payment for returning extra energy to the grid during peak hours. EV users are strongly encouraged to engage in the ancillary services sector of the energy market in states like California, which contributes to increased grid stability and dependability.
In India, V2G integration is still in its infancy. The planning of the distribution grid with integration of EV charging infrastructure is the main focus of the reaction to the increasing sales of EVs. A group has been established by the Central Electricity Authority to develop regulations for reverse charging, or charging batteries from the grid. This group emphasized smart charging as a crucial facilitator to guarantee EV expansion with the least possible grid effect.
Model Question:
Discuss the current status and challenges of Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption in India. How can the synergy between renewable energy and EV battery technology accelerate sustainable transportation in India?
Model Answer:
Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption in India is witnessing gradual momentum, driven by environmental concerns, energy security, and the government’s push for decarbonization. The EV sector includes electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, cars, and buses. As of 2024, EVs constitute around 6% of total automobile sales, with two-wheelers dominating the market.
The Government of India has launched several initiatives like FAME I & II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and EVs), Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, and tax rebates to boost EV adoption. States have also formulated EV policies for infrastructure development and demand generation.
However, challenges persist:
- Limited charging infrastructure
- High upfront cost of EVs
- Dependence on imported lithium-ion cells
- Battery recycling and disposal issues
- Grid integration challenges with intermittent renewable energy
The convergence of renewable energy with EVs can offer a sustainable solution. Charging EVs using solar and wind energy reduces the overall carbon footprint and aligns with India’s net-zero target by 2070. Smart grids and time-of-day tariffs can optimize EV charging when renewable energy availability is high.
Additionally, EV batteries can serve as distributed energy storage systems, helping in grid stabilization and energy storage for renewables. Innovations like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology and development of solid-state or sodium-ion batteries offer further promise.
To fully realize this potential, India must focus on domestic battery manufacturing under the ACC PLI scheme, incentivize renewable-based EV charging stations, and promote R&D in battery recycling and energy storage solutions.
Thus, a holistic policy approach integrating EVs, renewable energy, and battery ecosystems can drive India towards a cleaner and more resilient transportation future.
