Hydro-Québec’s research institute, IREQ teamed up with B3CG Interconnect, based in Saint-Eustache, and its partners to test vehicle-to-grid and vehicle-to-home power exchanges.
The goal of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems is to use electricity stored in the batteries of plug-in vehicles as a backup energy supply for electricity grids, such as the Hydro-Québec power system, during peak periods. Vehicle-to-home (V2H) systems, on the other hand, would allow plug-in vehicle owners to use the energy stored in their batteries as a temporary home power source during outages, as they would a generator.
For purposes of the project, a test vehicle equipped with Québec-designed technologies will be assembled at IREQ. TM4, a Hydro-Québec subsidiary, will supply a latest-generation TM4 MФTIVE electric powertrain system.
The battery will be designed with IREQ-patented materials, such as lithium iron phosphate. B3CG Interconnect will partner with the Centre National du Transport Avancé (national centre for advanced transportation) in Saint-Jérôme and Brioconcept, based in Laval, to develop new two technologies: a power battery and associated control system, and a two-way charger designed to both recharge the battery and supply power to the grid.
The project will also receive financial support from the Québec government as part of its 2011-2020 Action Plan for Electric Vehicles. This plan gave Hydro-Québec a mandate to define the implications of these innovative concepts and to carry out all required experiments.
Exchanging power between vehicles and the home or vehicles and the grid is a very interesting concept. “We would like to better define the potential long-term contribution of this technology,” said Denis Faubert, General Manager of IREQ. “Through this initiative, Hydro-Québec will continue to spearhead the integration of electric vehicles into the power grid and become a showcase for Québec know-how.”
“Thanks to the presence of Hydro-Québec and major Québec buyers of world-class transportation systems, Québec industries can carve out a place on the world market for electric vehicles and related technologies,” said Stéfan Baumans, President and CEO of B3CG Interconnect. “Our company will focus on niche markets such as urban public transit and vehicles for outdoor recreation and mining,” he added.
For more information: http://www.hydroquebec.com/transportation-electrification/index.html
