There’s been much talk lately of using your old EV battery to power your house lights while the grid is down. However, the media have become quieter about using it wisely while still in its prime. We exchanged ideas with Sherry Listgarten on Palo Alto Online. Then we decided to share smart ways to use your electric car battery right here on our blog.
Charge Your Electric Vehicle Outside Peaks Times
If we charged all the electric vehicles in North America at the same time, we might eventually overload the grid. Let’s help avoid load shedding by not charging during 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. peak times. Many EV’s allow their owners to schedule recharging from the grid during off-peak hours. Then you can awake with an optimally-charged battery in the morning.
Palo Alto Online reports California is actively looking for ways to reduce peak loads, and incentivize electric vehicle owners. If you are in that league you may like to speak to your local provider and find ways that benefit both. We are moving into a new era as more solar and wind power comes on line.
Smart Ways to Use Your Electric Car Battery Down the Line
Your EV battery becomes a portable power pack after you recharge it at a lower rate. That’s because it can supply electricity slightly cheaper to appliances later. EV manufacturers are discovering this, as they add more outlets to their vehicles.
Take the Ford F-150 electric pickup for example. Sherry Listgarten checked one out, and discovered no less than 11 outlets delivering total 9.6 kW of power. She calculated the Ford was even capable of recharging another electric vehicle. Although she commented be careful you don’t run your own battery flat!
The above suggestions are not the only smart ways to use your electric car battery. Why, you could even support your utility grid during peak and achieve a net saving. Just be sure not to over-use it though. Replacement EV batteries are expensive. Best check your auto insurance first!
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