A new technology for OnStar systems may one day allow Chevrolet Volt owners to charge their electric cars with more renewable energy.
OnStar and Google are working together to demonstrate the technology on the 17 Chevrolet Volts in Google’s electric vehicle based at the company’s headquarters in Mountain View, Calif.
The OnStar systems receive a signal from electricity grid operator PJM Interconnection showing the percentage of available renewable energy on the grid. OnStar then uses the information to simultaneously manage the charging of numerous Volts attached to the grid to optimize the availability of renewable electricity.
PJM data shows that peak time for renewable energy generation from wind is generally between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. With this in mind, it would be possible for customers to use OnStar’s system to further reduce their carbon footprint and save money by charging during these off-peak times.
“This demonstration shows that in the near future customers will have a real signal of demand for renewable energy,” said Nick Pudar, OnStar vice president of planning and business development. “As customers configure their Volts to favor renewable energy for their charging cycle, this real demand signal will influence utilities to tap into renewable sources."
OnStar has developed other technology solutions that allow electric vehicles to participate in advanced electricity delivery programs, including demand response and time-of-use (TOU) rates.
Beginning this year, owners of General Motor’s vehicles in certain parts of the U.S. will be able to use their OnStar information systems to rent out their vehicles through a peer-to-peer carsharing service.
Bart King is a PR consultant and principal at Cleantech Communications.
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Bart King is the founder and principal at New Growth Communications. He specializes in helping sustainability leaders develop thought leadership content and strategy
Published Jan 24, 2012 3pm EST / 12pm PST / 8pm GMT / 9pm CET