Energy storage on wheels

Can cars be part of the solution to our energy needs? This project explores how parked electric cars can act as "energy storage on wheels", a resource that strengthens the electricity grid, harnesses renewable energy and makes Gävleborg more attractive to both businesses and residents.

Did you know that 90% of the world's manufactured batteries end up in vehicles that are stationary 95% of the time? During that time, they can act as 'energy storage on wheels'. This means they can store electricity when there is a surplus, and return electricity to the grid a few hours later when demand is high.

In a region like Gävleborg, with both heavy industry and large-scale transportation, there is a great need for a secure and flexible energy supply. To really benefit from this green energy, we need to find smart ways to store and distribute electricity, and vehicles can be part of the solution.

Instead of building expensive, large-scale energy storage facilities, ten of thousands of cars can contribute to the same effect. This saves resources, allows us to use more renewable electricity locally and strengthens both the competitiveness of the industry and the region's sustainability goals. The batteries of the future are already on our roads, we just need to start using them in a smarter way.

Purpose

The project aims to make electric vehicles a resource not only for their owners, but for society as a whole. By developing new ways of working and business models, we will

• strengthen the ability of companies and vehicle owners to contribute to the energy system
• secure the supply of electricity for industry and transportation
• create incentives for more people to choose electric vehicles,
• and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient electricity system in line with climate goals.

Approach

The project is run by the University of Gävle in close collaboration with energy companies, businesses and authorities.
Together we will:

• analyze the future need for electricity in Gävleborg
• test how electric cars can be used as energy storage, including in Hudiksvall where the Volkswagen Group's first pilot in Europe for bidirectional charging is underway
• develop business models that make it profitable for both vehicle owners and energy companies
• investigate sustainability from environmental, economic and social perspectives and disseminate the results so that more people can benefit from the knowledge.

Expected results

At the end of the project, we expect that:

• new support structures are in place to link electric vehicles and the energy market
• concrete business models have been tested and can be used by companies
• the region has a better decision-making basis for planning the energy system of the future,
• vehicle owners see a benefit and receive compensation for contributing to the electricity grid
• Gävleborg becomes more attractive for business establishments thanks to a stable and green energy supply.