Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is the concept of using stored energy in a plug-in hybrid's (or electric car's) battery to send power to the electrical grid when necessary. When plugged in, hybrids with advanced controllers can announce their identity, location and storage capacity to the grid. The utility can then juggle small amounts of power back and forth to the cars' battery packs, helping the utility level its power from moment-to-moment, providing voltage regulation, spinning reserves and other functions. And if adopted on a widespread basis, V2G can help during peak loads -- in the middle of the day when energy demand is highest, usage of car energy can prevent utilities from turning on high-polluting "peaker" plants.End quote.
Studies estimate utilities might compensate car owners with $2,000-3,000 a year to "borrow" their storage capacity ...
Additional FAQs: Hybrids Plus
