In Japan, ENERES Co. is using Nissan LEAF electric vehicles paired with the LEAF to Home power supply system for demand response testing at several sales outlets run by Kanagawa Nissan.
Usually, when curtailment is requested, consumers may respond by moderating their use of air conditioning and lighting. However, by using the storage capacity of electric vehicles and Vehicle to Home (V2H) systems, consumers can reduce their use of power at peak times without turning off lights and appliances. This is particularly useful in commercial establishments where it is difficult to turn power off to save electricity.
The tests are assessing the usefulness of energy-saving measures using V2H systems during peak-use periods and analyzing the impact of monetary incentives on business. For example, the testing involves a LEAF and LEAF to Home system that is connected to power a Nissan dealer's lighting system during regular business hours using stored battery energy. This reduces electricity demand on the power grid, and the business is then compensated for the equivalent of the total amount of electricity that is saved.
