Project to study climate effects on electric vehicle energy use

A new joint project between Western University's Faculty of Engineering and Fanshawe College's Centre for Research and Innovation (CRI) , in collaboration with London Hydro, is investigating household energy consumption for electric vehicles (EVs) and how weather factors affect it. EVs charged in Ontario produce, on average, only three per cent of the emissions of a similar gas-fueled car. The focus of the research is to determine whether climate factors affect energy use when recharging EVs at home. Researchers will collect data in different temperatures using smart meters and the Green Button Standard, an initiative that authorizes third-parties to access household utility data. Understanding the impact of weather factors on EV charging will provide owners insight on the best times to recharge their vehicles. The results from the data collected will also allow London Hydro to better understand electricity distribution leading to a positive impact on operational costs and consumer charges. The project is part of a new agreement between CRI and Western Engineering to collaborate on industry-focused research and training opportunities.