News Forum - Electric vehicles may need long-term solar power plan

[Thaiger]

As popularity rises with electric vehicles, future charging options may include solar power. Long-term planning is being pushed by Delta Electronics (Thailand) Plc. as a result of the need to ensure adequate power supplies. One idea is that of using microgrids at charging stations. The electronics manufacturer is suggesting that each charging facility should act as a microgrid that can generate electricity with solar panels. Such an idea comes as demand for power is to be expected when the Thai EV market fully develops. Currently, EV charging stations in Thailand are connected to the state grid, but Delta says it […]

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[Donald]

Well, it sort of seems logical that electrical vehicles should be solely charged with electricity energy generated by renewable sources. As long as they get their energy from fossil fuel or nuclear they are just as contaminating, or even more then classical fuel burning vehicles. I can add an interesting anecdote with regard to this. Some years ago a friend of mine wanted to buy an electric Renault Kango in Spain, but was refused because he was not connected to the grid, although he had a powerful solar installation which would have allowed the 6KW charger to be installed without any limitations.

[DoUKnowWhoIAm]

I wonder what those with fake exhaust pipes on their Fortunes will do when they've purchased their first electric vehicle? The Ocean liners, like Titanic, once looked very powerful with a 4th fake funnel....

[Richard1944]

Is wishful thinking that solar powered grids for electric charging of cars will be workable.

[DoUKnowWhoIAm]

Lightyear would probably work well here in Thailand, the damn sun never goes away

[Noble_Design]

18 minutes ago, Donald said:

As long as they get their energy from fossil fuel or nuclear they are just as contaminating, or even more then classical fuel burning vehicles. 

No, powerplants are much more efficient in converting fossil fuel to electricity than an internal combustion engine ever would.

A combined cycle power plant has a thermal efficiency of >60%

https://power.mhi.com/products/gtcc

The most efficient internal combustion engine is just 50% and even that one is a Formula 1 engine, far beyond the reach of average drivers. Most engines efficiency is around 40%