Vehicle to Grid (V2G) specialist Nuvve in collaboration with San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) have agreed to develop an electric school bus that can return energy to the grid. This project was created to prevent outages through the utility’s Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP).
These programs can help with energy conservation efforts and also get paid two dollars per kWh for the energy they provide, says SDG&E. This V2G scheme is not only for network emergencies but can be done every day.
“Electric school buses offer a natural and compelling bi-directional charging solution born from their batteries, which are equipped with a substantial amount of energy storage capacity,” said Gregory Poilasne, CEO of Nuvve.
“Additionally, the operating requirements for ESBs play a critical role – while buses are plugged in and not driven, they can help the power grid when energy demand levels are usually at their highest.” Gregory continued
This scheme was launched to encourage business customers with generally larger energy loads to help reduce energy use during emergencies.
The Nuvve V2G system helps utilities manage and measure energy feedback. School districts within SDG&E service areas interested in electrifying school buses and ELRPs should contact Nuvve. Participation in an electric school bus fleet will enable these districts to qualify for revenue potential, help offset the costs of converting their electric fleet and/or funnel savings back into the classroom, added SDG&E.
Nuvve became a public company on the US stock market in 2020 and is headquartered in San Diego. BYD and Levo Mobility are one of the company’s collaborators integrating V2G into various vehicles, including the BYD e-bus. Nuvve is reportedly working with Blue Bird across the US for an electric school bus, offering a V2G app.
