Recent Report on Supporting EVs in Cold Climates

Just Released, Alaska Electric Vehicle Workshop Report.

In June 2020, the Alaska Center for Energy and Power and the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, hosted a two-day workshop to explore questions of electric vehicle (EV) charging behavior, operations and performance, as well as grid impacts. The purpose of workshop was to bring together energy, electric vehicle, and charging infrastructure experts with researchers, fleet and grid operators, and policy makers and to learn and identify new research questions and policy gaps.

In early 2021, the workshop hosts released a comprehensive summary report of the information shared at this workshop. ZEF Energy presented at this event and insights from their presentations are shared throughout the report.

Some key observations and leading examples that were shared and highlighted in the report include:

  • Opportunity for Grid Flexibility | Unlike gasoline vehicles and stations, a smart EV load—with home and workplace charging—provides compelling new opportunities to build a greener, more flexible grid. Demand charges—fees based on a customer’s peak use during a billing cycle—or alternatives need to be developed specific to the unique EV needs of the region, so they are not a barrier to EV adoption

  •  Time-Based Rates Save Customers Money | Minnesota Power established Residential and commercial rates with off-peak TOU schedules. Residential rates are significantly lower when energy is used during off-peak periods (off-peak rates are 82% lower than peak rates), saving money for customers and the utility.

  • EV Charging is Cold Climate Ready | Industry standards test Level 2 charger equipment at temperatures of -30 degrees and -40 degrees (Fahrenheit), optimal operating temperatures ranfge from 20°C/–4°F to 50°C/122°F and between –35°C/–31°F and 50°C/122°F for DC fast charging.

  • Norwegian Fast Charging Infrastructure Leading the Way | The government in Norway launched a program in 2017 to finance at least two multi-standard fast charging stations every 50 km on all main roads. With the exceptions of Finnmark and Lofoten, fast charging stations have been successfully established on all main roads in Norway, currently the world-wide leader in EV adoption (above 15% penetration).

     

The workshop focused on many of the challenges and questions that come with transitioning to and operating electric vehicles in cold climate areas. These considerations are key for Alaska and other cold climate areas to help drivers – and those providing infrastructure and running programs – to help support broad EV adoption.

To read more, find the full Workshop Report here.

Megan Hoye