Electric cars could power homes in major power cut, think tank says

Yahoo! News - May 1st, 2025

Electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) or vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality are proving invaluable in regions experiencing power outages, such as those recently seen in Spain and Portugal. According to the UK-based think tank Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), 60% of an EV's battery can power a typical UK home for nearly six days. This technology allows EV owners to charge their vehicles when electricity is cheaper, like overnight, and sell it back to the grid during high-demand periods, potentially earning up to £630 ($840) annually. EV users in Spain have taken to social media to share how their cars are powering their homes amid the ongoing outages, with one user claiming to be the only one with electricity in their neighborhood.

The implications of this development are significant, as it highlights the dual benefits of EVs: reducing emissions and providing energy resilience. ECIU head of transport Colin Walker emphasized the potential of EVs to maintain essential services during blackouts, while industry veteran Andy Palmer pointed out the proven effectiveness of this technology, drawing from experiences in Japan post-tsunami. The recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal disrupted businesses, transportation, and infrastructure, demonstrating the critical need for alternative power solutions as the world transitions to renewable energy sources.

Electric Vehicles Portugal Nissan Spain Power Outages Andy Palmer V2 G Technology Energy Resilience Eciu Colin Walker

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and engaging exploration of the potential for electric vehicles to enhance energy resilience during power outages. It effectively highlights the benefits of V2H and V2G technology, supported by reputable sources like the ECIU and industry experts. However, the story would benefit from greater balance by including a wider range of perspectives, particularly regarding the challenges and limitations of the technology. While the article is generally clear and accessible, more detailed evidence and transparent explanations would strengthen its factual accuracy and reliability. Overall, the story is informative and relevant, but it could be improved by addressing the complexities and nuances of the topic more thoroughly.

Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that are generally accurate but require further verification for complete substantiation. The claim that EVs can power homes during outages is supported by existing V2H technology, as confirmed by various sources. However, the assertion that 60% of an EV's battery can provide nearly six days of electricity for a typical UK home appears overstated when compared to average consumption and battery capacities. The financial claim that EV owners could make £630 annually through V2G technology is plausible but lacks detailed methodology. The anecdotal evidence from social media about EVs being used during power outages in Spain is unverified, highlighting a need for corroboration.

Balance

The article presents a predominantly positive view of EVs and their potential benefits, particularly in terms of resilience during power outages and financial incentives. While it mentions the disruptions caused by blackouts, it does not explore potential limitations or challenges associated with V2G technology, such as infrastructure readiness or regulatory hurdles. The perspectives of EV owners who may not have access to V2H technology or who face practical challenges are absent, leading to a somewhat unbalanced representation.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information from the potential benefits of EVs to specific examples and expert opinions. The language is accessible, and technical terms like V2G and V2H are explained adequately for a general audience. The tone remains neutral, focusing on factual reporting rather than opinion. However, the inclusion of more detailed explanations regarding the feasibility and limitations of the technology would improve clarity further.

Source quality

The primary source of information is the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), a reputable think tank, lending credibility to the claims. Additionally, the article includes insights from industry veteran Andy Palmer, adding authority to the discussion. However, the reliance on social media anecdotes without verification weakens the source quality. The article would benefit from additional authoritative sources, such as utility companies or government reports, to validate the claims about EV usage during the Spanish outages.

Transparency

The article provides some context for the claims, such as the potential for EVs to provide power during outages and financial benefits through V2G technology. However, it lacks detailed explanations of how these figures were calculated or the specific methodologies used by the ECIU. The absence of information on the prevalence of V2H-capable EVs or the availability of bi-directional chargers in affected regions reduces transparency. Greater disclosure of the basis for financial and technical claims would enhance the article's transparency.