Why is smart charging important? The time at which EV charging occurs could have significant implications for the electricity system. We expect that charging at home and workplaces will be central to the charging ecosystem. In these locations, EV charging is likely to happen during periods of existing high demand on the electricity system – for instance, when many people arrive at work in the morning, or at home in the evenings. To meet these high peaks of demand, significant levels of additional investment in both the networks that transport the electricity and in electrical generation capacity will be needed, with the costs borne ultimately by consumers.
A key feature of a smarter energy system is the ability to minimise peak demand and maximise the use of low-carbon renewable electricity, which is generated intermittently. EVs can support the transition to a smarter energy system by, for example, charging overnight (during the off-peak period), thereby reducing the need for investment in the electricity network. This value can be passed through to consumers via cheaper electricity bills or other rewards. This makes it cheaper for people to charge and integrates EVs into the electricity system in a more affordable way.
Note - this is an illustrative 2050 scenario only, based on BEIS modelling Government's aims and objectives for smart charging In the consultation, Government stated that its overarching aim was to maximise the use of smart charging technologies. It proposed four objectives to underpin smart charging policy: consumer uptake, innovation, grid protection and consumer protection. The majority of respondents agreed with the proposed aim and objectives. In 2021 Government will legislate to mandate that new private chargepoints must be smart, to help drive the uptake of smart charging and realise the important benefits that it can bring.
The four proposed policy objectives also remain the principles underpinning smart charging policy development within Government (consumer uptake, innovation, grid protection and consumer protection). Government remains 9