SKY-NRCan EV PROJECT
The SKY-NRCan EV Project uses bidirectional charging units with solar PV installations and energy storage components to create an innovative solution to peak electricity demand issues faced by traditional EV infrastructure. The vehicle and battery can be charged during off-peak, lower cost times, or by using solar during peak hours and that stored power can be sent back to the grid at the owner’s discretion at high-cost times or during power outages. With the integrated solar components, this system creates 100% renewable energy and storage loop.
The project also explores workplace charging options as a viable alternative to home charging to address barrier to EV charging installations in multi-unit residential or rental buildings. It also considers the effects of cold weather on both the charging and V2G features. The project involves 5 diverse sites across Ontario to maximize the scope and findings of the demonstration, and began in 2017.
Solar Carport, Level 2 and Level 3 Bidirectional EV Chargers at the Venture 13 Innovation Centre, Cobourg
The project sites include the newly constructed Venture 13 Innovation Centre in Cobourg, the Lakefront Utility Services head office in Cobourg, the Cobourg Police Services building, the SKY Offices in Markham and a First Nations site in Oxford Station.
Police Services Solar Carport, Level 2 and Level 3 Bidirectional EV Charger Installation, Cobourg
The three Cobourg projects are operational, as is the SKY Office site in Markham. Work on the Oxford Station site will being in spring 2019.
The Venture 13 and Police Services sites incorporate solar, and each have a regular Level 2 and Level 3 bidirectional charger for public use. The Lakefront Utilities site has two Level 3 bidirectional chargers. All the Cobourg sites Level 3 chargers are compatible with the CHAdeMO charging protocol (Nissan, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Kia), while the Level 2 chargers have the J1772 standard connector.
Solar Carport, Battery, Level 2 and Level 3 Bidirectional EV Chargers at Sky Offices, Markham
The SKY Office site showcases a Level 2 charger with two heads, using the J1772 standard protocol, as well as a bidirectional Level 3 charger compatible with the SAE charging protocol (BMW, General Motors, Volkswagen, Hyundai). It has a solar carport and also showcases battery storage to maximize efficiencies and cost savings of using solar to charge electric vehicles.
To maximize the range of perspectives and expertise involved in the project, Sky has partnered with Lakefront Utility Services to advise on utility concerns, grid connection and management and future incentive programs. Project partners also include IKS, a bidirectional charger manufacturer and eCamion, for energy management software.