Jaap Burger

Why extend dynamic pricing to #EV public charging users?
It gives them the same access to the benefits of #SmartCharging as those who charge at home. The added flexibility helps cities in their energy transition.

More in my op-ed in Foresight Climate & Energy and this🧵

https://foresightdk.com/flex-and-the-city-cities-need-dynamic-pricing-for-public-charging/

Flex and the city: Cities need dynamic pricing for public charging – FORESIGHT

Apr 11, 2023 at 10:24amWeb
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
The affordability of EVs compared to the fossil-fuelled cars they replace depends in part on lower running costs (more on the upfront cost barrier later). While renewables are bringing down wholesale electricity prices, #EV users do not always benefit.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
Public charging users pay the same price whether they charge at peak times or not. Tariffs are high to cover peak prices in the energy supply contract. However, these tariffs do nothing to reduce peak demand, nor are the lower costs of off-peak charging passed on to EV drivers.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
Some public smart charging schemes focus on the benefits for the grid, without direct benefits (and control) for the driver. For smart charging to be effective, the user should see direct benefits and have a choice.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
For home charging, tariffs have emerged that offer drivers low prices for every smartly charged kWh, while retaining full control. By making smart charging the default, users benefit directly (as does the grid). This is what we need for public charging.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
A variety of available smart charging services show dynamic pricing as input can be handled in a user-friendly & automated way, e.g. with off-peak bonus points, and by stacking use cases: e.g. local grid + power markets.
(figure from https://www.raponline.org/knowledge-center/time-is-now-smart-charging-electric-vehicles/) #EV #SmartCharging
The time is now: smart charging of electric vehicles

RAP analyses 139 smart charging tariffs and services across Europe to offer recommendations on how to capture the most value from EV charging.

Regulatory Assistance Project
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
Cities can unlock the value of flex in public charging by recognising its value to grids, enabling user-centric services that work with (national) energy markets, but can also contribute to local value creation, for example by linking energy communities with public charging.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
Governments and regulators can give EV drivers with and without off-street parking the same opportunities to participate in and benefit directly from smart charging. It is a sustainable way to bring smart charging rewards to all EV users.
Show threadJaap BurgerApr 11, 2023
Dynamic pricing works well with ad hoc payment options and a wide range of contracts (e.g. flat rates). Consumers will benefit from a wide variety of offers, as not everyone will have the same preferences and needs. They may want to try different options to find the perfect one.
Show threadFabio GallettiApr 11, 2023

@burger_jaap I was reading about an efficient use of grid/EV for years.
And Home batteries/grid, too.

My hope is that a sound "Psicological" approach may be forged out.
A easy "do that to save money" message.

Show threadJaap BurgerApr 12, 2023
@Fabio_Galletti_ yes, I think that's why we need a diverse range of offerings: some consumers will prefer the 'no worries, low cost' for an easy, fully managed solution where others are happy to be exposed to (wholesale) price dynamics themselves
Show threadStephen CerrutiApr 11, 2023

@burger_jaap In my area we have a mix of flat rate and dynamic pricing. Currently I avoid dynamically priced charging as the only time it makes sense in my market is between 12AM and 6AM.

When I am on road trips, the most common use case for public charging, I don't really have the option to adjust when I charge.

https://www.plugshare.com/location/222997

Pikes Peak Charging | Divide, CO | EV Station

A scenic location with a view of Pikes Peak. Shared Charging 62.5 KW max. From Scott, the owner: The stations are designed to distribute 62.5 KW, max, and they share a 3-phase 125 KW circuit. I am the only DCFC station in CORE's service area that is not owned by CORE. My peak demand charge is based on my busiest 15 minutes no matter the time of day. If I let a full 125 KW flow for 15 minutes, then my power bill STARTS at ~$1900. Please understand that I do not make money off of these stations, They are a gift to you. They are not here to drive traffic to Margaret's Munchies. They are there for you fellow EV drivers. I wish I could make them faster and less expensive, but I am doing the best that I can.

Show threadJaap BurgerApr 12, 2023
@scerruti the primary use case would be public AC charging - more common in Europe - where cars are typically parked overnight or during the working day, with ample flexibility within that parking duration to (automatically) shift charging.
For DCFC, it would reduce costs for most hours of the day.