Contrary to the belief that the electricity grid will struggle to handle the growing demand from EVs, reports from reputable sources suggest otherwise.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) stated in a 2022 report that decarbonizing the transport sector will require significant growth in low-carbon electricity to power EVs. However, the National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) indicates that EVs could actually help support the grid by storing excess generation from renewable sources and providing it back to the grid during periods of high demand.
National Grid ESO mentions that the UK could “comfortably handle” an overnight switch to EVs due to a 16% decrease in electricity demand over the past two decades, thanks to technological efficiencies. The company estimates that if the UK were to switch to EVs overnight, demand would only increase by around 10%.
While there is acknowledgment that more work is needed with distribution companies, the government, OFGEM, and others to ensure the infrastructure, including the wires and connections to charge points, is in place to support EVs, the overall capacity of the grid is not a significant concern.
The IPCC also reports that widespread use of smart charging, as recommended by the government and already fitted as standard to many EVs, could reduce the impact of peak electricity demand by as much as 60%. This means that EVs can be charged during low-demand cycles, such as at night, to balance the grid.
Additionally, it’s important to note that peak demand from 80% EV penetration is still several years away. The National Grid, along with Distribution Network Operators, OFGEM, and the government, have time to build and improve the electricity infrastructure to support this transition.
In summary, the idea that the electricity grid won’t cope with the increase in EVs is a misconception. Reports and statements from the National Grid and the IPCC suggest that the grid can handle the increased demand with the implementation of smart charging and improvements to the infrastructure, which are already underway.