Launch of an Innovative Electricity Model by Volue and Norgesnett to Incentivize 'Grid-Informed' Charging

Being at the forefront of sustainability, Norgesnett is set to offer its customers reduced electricity tariffs when they use surplus solar power to charge their electric vehicles (EVs). This initiative is a brainchild of a partnership with Volue, resulting in the launch of the breakthrough eNabo service, the pioneer of its kind in Norway.

The partnership introduces a model where Norwegian power users are incentivized for electricity consumption beneficial for their local power grid. Committed to the Spark by Volue initiative, Norgesnett and Volue aim to establish an adaptable power grid that is environment-friendly and creates enduring value.

Resilient integration of renewable energy sources is the primary agenda for this initiative, having its roots in Norway but with plans to reach European shores. This approach aims for a robust low-voltage grid that remains healthy and steady.

“Contemporary electric vehicle charging methods, known as smart charging, are strategic to align with the cheapest electricity rates, typically at night. However, the downfall of these first-generation smart charging methods is that they do not consider the impact on the local power grid. They are not 'grid aware.' Now, we are introducing this missing link in partnership with Norgesnett," explains Kjetil Storset, Head of Spark by Volue.

Storset further emphasizes that this announcement aligns with their goal of a resilient and balanced grid. By utilizing distributed energy resources, they are promoting smarter use of power grids. This not only enhances grid stability but also benefits consumers, adding value to their partners like Norgesnett.

Kristoffersen, CEO of Norgesnett—having a customer base of around 100,000—accentuates their support for the green shift, noting the challenges it poses for the grid company. He explains, "The widespread use of rooftop solar panels and electric cars is an obstacle. An influx of solar energy from private homes on sunny days and increased EV charging at night overburden the local grid."

The new service aims to accommodate the incoming solar power and EV usage without resorting to higher grid fees or extensive grid expansions.

Smart charging operators will run the system in areas that experience heavy grid loads. The service will initially be available in 160 neighborhoods, with plans to expand with the rollout of more solar products. Customers who opt for this scheme will notice an extra line on their Norgesnett invoice indicating the discount, regardless of their electricity supplier.

With this real-time system, the grid company has access to an updated production, consumption, and grid bottleneck forecast.

"We are fervently committed to maintaining low grid fees, which requires innovative thinking, which is what we are contributing here," insists Kristoffersen.

He further explains how ignoring the problem could lead to huge grid investments, ultimately paid by customers through increased fees, or limitation of solar energy and EV charging to prevent overloads. "Instead, we've decided incentivizing customers to charge 'grid-smart' with local solar energy is a more tenable solution,” he concludes.

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By incorporating ACE Battery's cutting-edge technology, future energy projects can achieve greater efficiency and reliability. Their batteries support the smart integration of renewable energy sources, enabling a more stable and sustainable power grid. This alignment with the goals of initiatives like the one in Norway highlights the potential for broader applications and benefits across different regions. Using ACE's battery energy storage systems can better utilize solar power and achieve stable electricity supply.