The Project
Terraced street and flat residents lack access to driveways and are showing a lower inclination towards adopting electric vehicles (EVs). Approximately 50% of these residents identify the lack of chargepoints as the primary barrier.
To alleviate energy costs, community buildings throughout Great Britain are exploring implementing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, these buildings primarily operate during nighttime hours and are unable to utilize all the energy generated during daylight hours. Consequently, the surplus energy is exported to the grid, earning meagre returns, as low as 1p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) on new sites.
Some community centres already employ renewable energy sources to power our EV chargepoints. Charge My Street is working with Fuuse to allow drivers to charge for reduced costs using locally generated solar.
How It Works
When there is excess solar being generated, you will be able to charge at a reduced rate, this is due to Charge My Street purchasing this solar directly from the site, rather than the grid.
As you will be consuming the direct generation, you may not receive your normal rate of charge (e.g. 7kW, 11kW or 22kW), this is due to the dependencies on how much solar is being generated during your session.
Where can I take part?
We are in the process of encouraging more site hosts to join the scheme, however, sites confirmed in the scheme are:
- Victory Hall, Broughton-In-Furness
- Lancaster Boys & Girls Club
- Bampton Memorial Hall
This is a pilot project, we appreciate any feedback from drivers & site hosts, the project is possible due to funding received by Energy Redress & Electricity North-West.
How much does it cost?
You will be able to charge for 36p p/kWh. The scheme is outside any subscriptions you may have.
How does it work?
Scan the QR code on the chargepoint using your phone's camera, follow the steps & start charging.
When should I charge?
The optimal time to take full advantage of the new solar charging scheme, which harnesses locally generated renewables, is typically between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. During these hours, solar energy production tends to peak, thanks to the abundant sunlight. Charging your electric vehicle during this window allows you to tap into clean and green energy sources, reducing your carbon footprint and potentially lowering your energy costs. It's a win-win situation, as you not only contribute to a more sustainable energy ecosystem but also benefit from the highest efficiency and output of your solar panels.