Electric Vehicles: The Unsung Heroes During Cyclone Alfred
Key Ideas
- During Cyclone Alfred, over 120,000 properties were without power, but some households were able to stay operational thanks to vehicle-to-load technology in their electric vehicles.
- EV owners in Australia reported using their EV batteries to power homes, keep food fresh, charge phones and laptops, and run essential appliances during the blackout.
- The use of electric vehicles during natural disasters highlighted the potential for EVs to enhance household energy security and serve as a valuable resource in times of crisis.
- Professor Jake Whitehead emphasized the role of EVs in providing not just cleaner transport but also contributing to energy resilience, especially in the face of increasing natural disasters due to climate change.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred, which caused widespread blackouts affecting over 120,000 properties in south-east Queensland and north east NSW, electric vehicles (EVs) emerged as heroes. EV owners with vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology were able to power their homes and essential appliances during the blackout. Chris Baker shared how his 2013 Nissan Leaf kept his household running by using the main battery to recharge the 12V system. Other EV owners, including those with Hyundai Kona EVs and MG4s, also shared their experiences of relying on their EV batteries for power, showcasing the versatility and resilience of EV technology. Moreover, Professor Jake Whitehead highlighted the significance of EVs not only as a sustainable mode of transport but also as a means to enhance energy security during natural disasters. The events during the cyclone underscored the importance of energy storage and the potential for EVs to provide essential power during emergencies, such as keeping food cold and running medical devices. With climate change expected to increase the frequency and severity of natural disasters in Australia, EVs could play a crucial role in ensuring households can withstand power outages and maintain functionality in times of crisis.
Topics
Homes
Climate Change
Electric Vehicles
Energy Resilience
Power Outages
Household Appliances
Natural Disasters
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