Are you an electric vehicle (EV) enthusiast looking to make your household more sustainable? Recent research has conducted an in-depth analysis of optimal solar photovoltaic (SPV) and battery storage system (BSS) configurations for grid-connected households with EVs, taking into account various electricity pricing models.
The study focused on two key configurations: SPV-EV and SPV-BSS-EV. By employing a home energy management system, researchers found that a 10-kW SPV combined with a 10-kWh BSS provided the best results for an average South Australian household. With time-of-use (TOU) pricing in place, the cost of electricity dropped significantly from 45.03 to 33.48 ¢/kWh – a remarkable 12 ¢/kWh reduction. This indicates that embracing solar power alongside EVs can lead to substantial cost savings while bolstering eco-friendly practices.
Double Delight: The Two-EV Marvel
For households owning two EVs, the study demonstrated that the SPV-BSS-EV setup remains economically viable. Over the 20-year period of the study, a household with two EVs and a SPV-BSS system achieved an impressive net present cost (NPC) of $55,904, compared to $45,850 with just one EV – an almost 19% increase. This finding reinforces the notion that going green with solar and EVs is not only environmentally responsible but also a financially prudent choice.
Selecting the Ideal EV: The Key to Optimizing the Solar-Battery Combo
While the primary focus was on the popular Renault Zoe model, the research delved into the economics of various EVs available in the Australian market. Models such as the BMW i3, Tesla Model X, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai IONIQ, and Tesla Model 3 were assessed for their impact on the solar-battery configuration. Surprisingly, lower-capacity EVs, like the Hyundai IONIQ, demonstrated the best reduction in the cost of electricity:
1. BMW i3: With its sleek design and environmentally conscious engineering, the BMW i3 is a popular choice among eco-conscious consumers. However, the simulation results revealed that the BMW i3’s higher capacity battery led to a higher net present cost (NPC) compared to other models. Despite its performance capabilities, the BMW i3 might not be the most cost-effective choice for households seeking significant cost reductions.
2. Tesla Model X: Known for its cutting-edge technology and luxurious features, the Tesla Model X stands out as a high-performance electric SUV. However, due to its larger battery capacity and higher energy consumption, the Model X recorded a significantly higher NPC compared to other models. While it offers an unparalleled driving experience, households looking for cost savings may find more budget-friendly options.
3. Nissan Leaf: As one of the early pioneers in the EV market, the Nissan Leaf has garnered popularity for its affordability and practicality. The simulations demonstrated that the Nissan Leaf’s mid-range battery capacity resulted in a moderate NPC, making it a competitive choice for households seeking a balance between cost and performance.
4. Hyundai IONIQ: The Hyundai IONIQ proved to be the cost-efficient champion among the EV models examined. With its lower capacity battery, the IONIQ achieved the lowest NPC, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious households. This result highlights the importance of considering battery size when aiming to optimize energy costs.
5. Tesla Model 3: Tesla’s Model 3, renowned for its performance and range, fell somewhere between the Hyundai IONIQ and the other high-capacity models in terms of NPC. It offers a compelling balance of performance and cost efficiency, making it a popular choice for tech-savvy EV enthusiasts.
As consumers, understanding the EV that best complements our solar-battery system can lead to even greater savings and overall system efficiency.
Final words:
The research reaffirms the potential of solar-powered battery storage systems in conjunction with EVs. As the world moves towards cleaner and greener energy solutions, this study serves as a beacon of hope for eco-conscious individuals seeking to maximize their environmental impact and minimize energy expenses.
Paper Title: Optimal planning of solar photovoltaic and battery storage for electric vehicle owner households with time-of-use tariff
Authors: Sarah Merrington, Rahmat Khezri, Amin Mahmoudi
College of Science and Engineering, Flinders, University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
The full paper is under the Creative Commons License CC BY 4.0 and is available here.