Driving towards Grid Balance

The project aims to create a comprehensive technical framework that will transform the current electric vehicle (EV) charging market ecosystem in Denmark. The framework will improve the digital infrastructure and configure the market to support the integration of smart grids and the adaptation of renewable energy. The main goal is to create a democratised ecosystem where electric vehicle owners have control over charge points, which will enable direct participation in the energy market and contribute to the stability of the grid.

Project Objectives:

Separation of Hardware Management and Service Provision: It is proposed that the management of hardware and the provision of services be separated to prevent vendor lock-ins and encourage competition.
Facilitation of Data Interoperability: Data related to EV charging will be shared seamlessly across platforms and among stakeholders to improve service delivery and grid management.
Utilisation of Enhanced Flexibility Services: The flexibility of electric vehicles will be utilised to adjust charging patterns in response to grid demand, which will support the integration of renewable energy sources.
Revision of Legislative Framework: Modifications to current legislation will be proposed to accommodate the new technical framework and foster a unified approach across the European Union.
Engagement of Stakeholders: A range of stakeholders, including EV owners, charge point operators, service providers, and regulatory bodies, will be engaged to develop a cohesive and efficient operational model.

This project is envisaged as a crucial first step towards improving the efficiency and sustainability of energy use in the transportation sector, particularly in the integration of electric vehicles into the national and European energy frameworks.

Key Exploitable Results

Unbundling of Infrastructure and Services: By separating the ownership and operation of charging infrastructure from service provision, the whitepaper proposes a model that breaks down monopolistic barriers. This separation enables multiple service providers to operate competitively, enhancing consumer choices and fostering a more dynamic market.
Granular Control for Charge Point Owners: The new framework allows legal owners of charge points to delegate control and read access to any actor they designate. This capability empowers charge point owners by giving them authority over who can access and manage their infrastructure, thus democratizing the decision-making process at the user level.
Open Access to Data: The proposal emphasizes the importance of data interoperability and open access protocols that ensure data related to EV charging can be shared across platforms and stakeholders without barriers. This transparency is crucial for developing new services and solutions that can optimize charging operations and integrate more seamlessly with smart grid functionalities.
Support for Innovative Services Development: By facilitating a more open market structure and encouraging data sharing, the proposed changes provide a fertile ground for innovation. Start-ups and new entrants can develop novel services that utilize real-time data to offer enhanced flexibility and grid services, further democratizing the market by reducing the dominance of established players.
Regulatory Framework and Stakeholder Engagement: The whitepaper advocates for adjustments in legislation to support these changes, promoting a unified approach that can be adopted across the EU. It also calls for active engagement of stakeholders, including EV owners, service providers, and regulatory bodies, to ensure that the transition to this new model is inclusive and considers the needs of all market participants.

Project duration: 9/2023

Scope: National project
National project (Denmark)

IOP-Focus: technical legal

Area of activity: V2G, V2X, energy grid, flexibility

Technical Readiness Level (TRL):