“Smart” EV charging ⁤is a term that is ⁣commonly used, ⁤but there are ​three questions that ​often‍ arise when discussing it. ⁤These ⁢questions are: What is it?​ How does it⁤ work? and Can I buy one now? However, answering these questions is more​ complex than it seems.

Currently, EVSE retailers are hesitant to ⁤admit that you can’t fully⁣ utilize the features of a smart charger ‍yet. There are also no protocols in place⁣ that allow these ⁢chargers to communicate with⁣ the Australian grid to optimize charging ‌based on available power production.

For the purpose of this ⁢article, let’s​ define a truly ⁢”smart” charger as one that​ can communicate with the grid and negotiate⁤ the best time ⁤to charge and at what ⁣kW rate based on the available power‍ production.

Smart charging offers several benefits, as seen in Figure 1. It can minimize ‍the need for additional power supplies and utilize ⁣excess capacity during‌ peak renewable energy production times.

To better understand the types of chargers available, ⁣let’s define two ⁢other types of Mode 3 ‍chargers.

1. “Dumb” chargers simply provide a set kW ​rate⁣ to the car⁣ when ⁤plugged in.
2. “Smart-ish” chargers can sense ​the power being used by ⁢the ‍building and ​adjust⁣ the ⁤charge rate to stay within ⁢a set overall limit. Some can also prioritize ⁤solar power over grid power.

While some ⁢smart-ish chargers ⁢can do both, they still operate behind the ‌meter ‍and​ the grid cannot influence their operation.

It’s ⁤important to note that some chargers have older or proprietary software that prevents them from ‍becoming fully smart chargers. Others have‌ a more recent, open-source software that may ‌be compatible with future smart charging ⁢requirements.

The ‌main reasons ⁤why it’s ‌not⁤ yet feasible to buy a fully smart charger are cost, agreement on standards, ‌and ⁢the introduction of vehicle-to-home​ (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid‍ (V2G) capabilities.

Smart‌ chargers are currently marketed⁣ and priced as premium products. ​Until they become a mandatory requirement for installed Mode 3 chargers, there may be basic smart ⁢chargers available that ‌lack certain features.

Additionally, Australian regulators have not agreed on a standard way for communication between car‌ chargers and the grid. Some smart-capable chargers may not be fully compatible with future grid requirements.

V2H and V2G capabilities require smart ‍or ⁤smart-ish⁣ functionality.‌ V2H⁢ requires a⁣ special type of smart-ish unit, while V2G ‌requires‌ high-level smart charger capability. The development of V2G functionality ⁢for CCS2 charge plugs is still ongoing.

In conclusion, smart charging is a growing⁣ trend that⁣ will revolutionize how we interact with electrical‍ retailers and⁢ the grid. However,​ true smart charger functionality is not ⁤yet enabled in Australia. Furthermore, the penetration of ‍EVs in the market⁣ is not high enough to⁣ make dumb ​chargers charging at “dumb” times a significant issue.

If you’re considering installing a charger now, you should weigh your needs ‌and whether you may want to‍ upgrade⁤ to ‍smart grid-managed charging or V2G capabilities ‌in the future. It may be worth installing a smart-ish ​charger with‌ load and/or solar generation ⁢sensing capabilities, but make ⁢sure it has the latest operating system that can be easily upgraded to a⁢ fully ‍smart charger.

Alternatively, if you only need a higher charging capacity now, you can install a higher power outlet and purchase a higher capacity portable charger that can also be used⁣ for travel.⁢ This way, you‌ can avoid installing a Mode 3 charger that may ​become redundant⁢ in​ the future.

Keep in mind that if you choose the latter option, ​you will need to manually manage the charging process based ⁤on peak/off-peak times or solar output. Smart chargers with flexible timing and sensing capabilities‍ will eventually become the norm.

Overall, smart charging is a promising development, but there are ‍still hurdles to overcome before⁤ fully realizing its potential in Australia.
Can I Purchase an EV Smart Charger and What Does ‍It​ Do?

The continuous advancement in technology has paved the way for various innovations aimed ‌at bringing about positive change for our society. One such innovation is the Electric Vehicle (EV) smart charger, which has gained popularity with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. But ⁣can you‍ purchase one,‍ and what exactly does it do? This article aims​ to shed light on these questions that potential ‍EV owners may have.

To answer the‌ initial ‍query, yes, you can purchase an EV ⁣smart charger for your electric vehicle. These chargers ⁢are ‌readily available in the market and can be purchased from authorized ‍dealers, online⁢ platforms, or‌ even directly from ​the‍ manufacturers. However, it is essential to ensure that the charger you select is⁤ compatible with your specific electric vehicle ⁢model to guarantee optimal functionality.

Now, let’s ​delve into what an EV⁢ smart charger actually does. In simple terms, it⁣ is a ⁢device that facilitates the⁣ charging process​ of an ‍electric ‌vehicle. However, what sets ⁤it apart from a standard charger is its⁣ “smart” capabilities. These chargers incorporate advanced technology to enhance user experience and address various concerns related to charging an electric ‍vehicle.

Firstly, an EV smart charger offers more efficient ⁤charging. It optimizes​ the charging ​process ​by dynamically adjusting the charging speed based⁣ on several factors, ‌such⁣ as the battery’s current state,‌ ambient temperature, and electricity grid availability. This ensures that your electric vehicle is charged​ as quickly as possible without detrimental effects on the battery’s lifespan.

Additionally, EV smart chargers enable users to schedule their charging sessions. This‍ feature allows you to set specific times for charging ‌your vehicle, such as during off-peak electricity hours or when renewable energy sources are more predominant. By doing so, you​ can ⁣take advantage‍ of ‍lower electricity rates and reduce your ⁣carbon footprint, contributing to a more⁤ sustainable future.

Moreover, these chargers enable ​remote monitoring and control through smartphone applications or online platforms. This functionality proves particularly useful ⁢as it allows you to monitor the charging progress, receive notifications when the charging is complete, and even control ‌the charger remotely. For instance, if a⁣ friend or family member needs to borrow your EV, you can grant them access to the charger through the mobile⁣ app without physical ‍intervention.

Furthermore, EV⁤ smart chargers often provide data and insights about your charging habits and electricity consumption. This data can help you track your charging costs, evaluate energy usage patterns, and identify potential areas for improvement.⁤ In⁢ turn, it empowers you to make informed decisions regarding your charging ⁣behavior and optimize your overall energy ‍consumption.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning⁣ that⁤ some EV smart ⁢chargers are designed to be compatible with home energy management ​systems. This integration allows users to make the most of their ‌renewable energy generation, such as solar panels. The charger can coordinate with the energy‍ management system to ensure that the electric vehicle charges primarily using‍ self-generated renewable energy.

In conclusion, purchasing an EV smart charger is indeed an option for electric⁤ vehicle owners. These intelligent devices offer a range of benefits, including efficient charging, scheduled charging, remote monitoring, data insights, and compatibility with home energy management systems. ​By investing in an EV ⁤smart charger, you can enhance ‌your ⁢charging experience, reduce‍ your impact on the‍ environment,⁢ and embrace a more sustainable⁣ future.