Existing EVs in the UK could power more than 300,000 homes

Based on the number of Nissan LEAF electric cars on UK roads at present, new vehicle-to-grid chargers could enable the cars’ owners to contribute enough to the National Grid to power more than 300,000 homes.

According to the new research by OVO, almost nine in ten Brits (87 per cent) were unaware of this technology that enables stored renewable energy from electric cars to be sold to the grid at peak times for money.

The research also showed that around two in five (38 per cent) UK adults that own or intend to purchase a car in the next 12 months, and were not aware that you could purchase this type of charger, would be more likely to buy an electric vehicle if they could use their car as a virtual power station.

Home batteries also allow consumers to lower their energy bills by storing abundant electricity when it’s cheaper, and using it around the home when national demand spikes and energy is most expensive.

Four out of five Brits (81 per cent) were unaware this type of battery exists, but more than half (57 per cent) would have one installed if it could save them money on energy bills by using energy outside of peak times.

Tom Pakenham, director of electric vehicles, at OVO Energy, said: “People are clearly keen to start their green journey, but a lack of knowledge means many are unaware of the full benefits of harnessing renewable energy.

“To inspire people to be part of this solution, they’ll need convincing that this new technology would be a practical addition to their lives as well as safeguarding our environmental future.”

“From home batteries to vehicle-to-grid chargers, at OVO Energy we are working hard to join the dots for customers and show that there are practical, cost-effective ways to go green for the long-term.”