The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is exploring a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology – Bombay (IIT Bombay) as part of its efforts to integrate vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology into the Kerala power system.
The KSEB management has given the go-ahead for inking a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IIT Bombay for carrying out a V2G pilot study in the KSEB’s power distribution system.
The V2G systems allow electric vehicle (EV) batteries to not only draw power from the grid, but also return it to the grid during periods of high electricity demand, thereby serving as decentralised energy storage systems. While the KSEB has a network of EV charging stations across the State, the V2G calls for ‘smart’ bi-directional systems to deliver electricity from the grid to EV batteries and vice versa.
Submitted proposal
In November 2024, IIT Bombay had submitted a proposal to the KSEB for a pilot project in V2G programmes. The power utility decided to take it up following a recommendation by its Chief Engineer (Renewable Energy and Energy Savings). “IIT Bombay’s plan includes a feasibility study, pilot deployment and grid service integration making it a more scalable and technically comprehensive model for Kerala’s energy sector,” the KSEB observed.
With renewable energy integration, especially solar energy, happening at a rapid pace in the State’s power system, the KSEB has been considering the possibilities offered by the V2G. “While challenges exist, a well-executed implementation strategy combined with public awareness and government support can lead to significant positive impacts on grid stability, renewable energy integration, and emissions reduction,” the power utility had noted in an earlier concept note on the V2G technology.
Financial incentives
On promoting decentralised energy storage, a recent discussion paper on a regulatory framework for renewable energy drafted by the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission also observed that international experience shows that financial incentives can encourage vehicle owners to participate in the V2G programmes.
“Offices and residential complexes can beneficially utilise the V2G systems by establishing solar-powered EV charging stations which allow EV charging during solar hours and encourage EV owners to use the charging system to inject stored energy to the grid at a premium tariff during peak demand periods,” the discussion paper said.
Published – April 02, 2025 06:37 pm IST
