It Actually Pays to Power Your Electric Vehicle With Wind

There are currently more than 1.3 million electric vehicles in operation and this figure is only expected to increase during the coming years. This technology has become increasingly affordable to the average consumer. In addition, the sheer variety of makes and models ensures that even selective tastes can be catered to. Additional advantages such as governmental incentives have likewise attracted countless buyers. However, a recent scheme has shed additional light upon the money-saving aspects associated with electric vehicle (EV) technology. Wind power is set to play a surprisingly important role. How are wind farms directly related to electric vehicles? And how might consumers be able to take advantage of such a unique synergy?

The Growing Prevalence of Wind Power

It is no secret that the UK is sometimes known for its unpredictable weather conditions. Scientists have been able to harness this weather in order to transform the domestic electrical grid as we know it. In fact, there are times when extremely windy conditions are able to produce up to 45% of the total power required within the UK. Although this is beneficial in terms of clean energy, it can sometimes present a problem when attempting to balance the national power grid. This is why firms such as Octopus Energy and Ohme have come up with a unique initiative. This initiative is designed to provide drivers with substantial rebates when charging their electric vehicles.

Reduced Tariffs and Impressive Annual Savings

Drivers are now encouraged to plug in their vehicles at charging stations during times associated with an excessive amount of wind-generated energy. Those who are already registered with the time-of-use tariff offered by Octopus Energy will be paid a certain amount of money when charging their vehicles. This roughly equals out to 1.8 pence for every mile (5.6 pence for each kilowatt hour). Compared to standard tariffs, drivers of electric vehicles could very well be able to save up to £400 each year. Of course, this will also depend upon the type of vehicle.

The main intention of Ohme is to encourage more drivers to utilise their services. This is done by providing quick, efficient and money-saving means to charge their vehicles. This helps lessen the burden upon the existing electrical grid. In addition, it encourages the use of a completely renewable source of energy. To put these observations in perspective, it will normally cost the driver of a petrol or diesel vehicle 10 pence per mile. Those who use EV alternatives can expect to pay as low as 2 pence for the same distance. These savings will obviously add up over time. This increases the demand for more energy-efficient vehicles throughout the entire industry.

This recent incentive is only one of many examples which highlight the growing prevalence of electric vehicles within the modern marketplace. As wind energy is here to stay, it only stands to reason that we are witnessing the beginning of a pronounced trend.