Are we there yet? Navigating EV charging emissions in Vermont
Abstract
Electric vehicles (EVs) are often regarded as a way to reduce the CO2 emissions impact of the transportation sector, and many individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint turn to an EV as the solution. However, there is insufficient research on the emissions impact of EV charging, which is highly dependent on driving behavior, time of charge, and location. This research seeks to understand the cost and carbon impacts of EV charging specifically in Vermont using marginal operational emissions rates (MOER) for Vermont’s grid. Furthermore, the added carbon benefits of solar photovoltaics (PV) and at-home battery storage are quantified. The results highlight the emissions trade-offs of these technologies, offering insight into how time-restricted charging, rooftop solar adoption, and energy storage can reduce EV charging emissions. These findings seek to enable more informed decisions about carbon reduction in the transportation sector.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Appala Raju Badireddy
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Program/Major
Electrical Engineering
Primary Research Category
Engineering and Math Science
Are we there yet? Navigating EV charging emissions in Vermont
Electric vehicles (EVs) are often regarded as a way to reduce the CO2 emissions impact of the transportation sector, and many individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint turn to an EV as the solution. However, there is insufficient research on the emissions impact of EV charging, which is highly dependent on driving behavior, time of charge, and location. This research seeks to understand the cost and carbon impacts of EV charging specifically in Vermont using marginal operational emissions rates (MOER) for Vermont’s grid. Furthermore, the added carbon benefits of solar photovoltaics (PV) and at-home battery storage are quantified. The results highlight the emissions trade-offs of these technologies, offering insight into how time-restricted charging, rooftop solar adoption, and energy storage can reduce EV charging emissions. These findings seek to enable more informed decisions about carbon reduction in the transportation sector.
