University launches landmark vehicle-to-grid technology
Flinders University has received the latest addition to its already formidable renewable energy system: an electric vehicle charging station showcasing award-winning bidirectional vehicle-to-grid technology.
A collaboration between ENGIE and Flinders University, the state government-backed project brings 10 vehicle-to-grid (V2G) chargers online. The V2G charging bays will be used to feed renewable energy from compatible EVs back into the campus grid, creating a virtual power plant (VPP) to benefit the University’s fleet, staff and students.
The University already has regular DC and AC chargers available to those who’ve made the switch to electric vehicles, with the entire network delivering the University’s solar and wind-sourced energy.
The project has just won Flinders University the Sustainable Development Goals Initiative of the Year Award at the Triple E Awards in Barcelona.
Flinders and ENGIE’s initiative is one of several funded under the SA Government’s $3.2 million Smart Charging Trials. Data from the trials will frame and inform the future direction of EVs in South Australia in the pursuit of net zero emissions by 2050.
The trials complement South Australia’s statewide EV charging network being rolled out by the RAA, delivering more than 500 charging bays to 140 sites in 52 locations.
“We are delighted to see this bold trial at Flinders hit its first key milestone, charging electric vehicles and feeding power back into the grid when needed, demonstrating how EVs can be harnessed to support SA’s electricity system during peak demand periods,” said Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis.
“More and more electric vehicles will be hitting our roads in years to come as we travel towards net zero emissions. With trials like this investigating the possibilities for broad use of this technology we can be confident we are on the right track,” Koutsantonis added.
“Flinders runs on 100% renewable energy, including 20% generated right here on campus through our massive solar arrays. Thanks to the South Australian Government’s Electric Vehicle Smart Charging Trial we’re taking another big step towards sustainability,” said Flinders University Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling.
“With inspiring education and research into solar and battery technologies we’re supporting South Australia’s transition to a renewable world, underpinned by incredible research growth of 140% in just five years.”
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