World-first trial uses smart grid for EV trial

An Australian-developed electric vehicle charger can halve electric vehicle (EV) charging costs, a world-first Victorian Department of Transport trial has found. The ChargeIQ EV charger was also found to optimise utilities’ network performance.

As part of the Victorian Government’s Electric Vehicle Trial, DiUS Computing delivered a demand management demonstration project using Victoria’s Smart Grid. The project, which ran from June to December 2012, was the first end-to-end use of Victoria’s Smart Meter infrastructure for electricity demand management.

The ChargeIQ unit.

The ChargeIQ was the only EV charger used in the trial. Developed over three years by Australian technology company DiUS Computing, ChargeIQ is the world’s first ZigBee-certified EV charger with the ability to communicate with smart meters.

ChargeIQ features smart grid integration and allows electricity companies to work with consumers to adjust charging loads. By providing drivers with enhanced visibility and control of their vehicle charging, ChargeIQ enables utilities and consumers to cooperate for real-time management of electricity demand.

The project found that drivers could save around $250 each year - or about 50% of their charging costs - without any sacrifice or effort on their part, using grid-friendly ‘smart’ charging technology that will help keep electricity prices down for all consumers.

Among other findings, the project identified opportunities to improve consumer access and confidence in the smart grid. Recommendations included promotion of smart grid innovation and improved demand management of electricity by engaging and empowering consumers.

“This project has broken new ground in progressing Victoria’s understanding of smart grid technology opportunities and issues,” said Craig Membery, energy policy advocate from the Alternative Technology Association, a leading not-for-profit promoting sustainable technology and practice.

The Victorian Government’s $5 million Electric Vehicle Trial will run until mid-2014. More information about the trial is available at www.transport.vic.gov.au/evtrials. The results of the DiUS project are available here.