Image: We drive Solar, Renault Group, MyWheels
The Dutch city of Utrecht has introduced the first in Europe V2G Car sharing service.
The initiative is a collaboration between car manufacturer Renault, Smart Charging Solutions Provider We ride Solar and the leading platform of the Land MyWheels that was Announced for the first time last November.
The rollout sees 50 Renault 5 e-tech electric cars now available through a car sharing service managed by MyWheels. The vehicles use V2G Bidirectional loading technology developed by Mobilis, the Renault Group brand dedicated to new mobility. It is the first time that technology has been made available for public infrastructure, supplied by We Drive Solar.
Utrecht enjoys a high penetration of solar energy, with 35% of its roofs currently equipped with solar panels, but the high use of renewable energy sources can yield challenges for the schedule during peak times. V2G technology is considered an important solution for managing electricity networks that deal with fluctuations in energy generation and consumption.
A statement from the companies says that the fleet will later expand with other e-tech electric models. There are plans to deliver 500 bidirectional cars that together can deliver 10% of the flexibility that is needed in the Utrecht area to balance electricity generated during peak times and the wind generated by the wind.
“This initiative clearly shows that a flourishing V2G ecosystem can only be achieved through the seamless cooperation of multiple players, from vehicle manufacturers and suppliers from infrastructure to energy companies and local authorities,” continued the declaration of the companies.
Jérôme Faton, a mobilizer, said that to unlock the full potential of V2G, existing barriers, including tax rules, scheduled costs and certification processes, must be demolished. “With the right coordination, V2G can become a cornerstone of tomorrow’s grid,” Faton added.
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