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EV Flex

Person setting a home EV charger

What is EV Flex?

EV Flex is a domestic smart charging pilot, delivered in partnership with Ohme, designed to help EV (Electric Vehicle) drivers charge their cars in a way that works for them while also supporting the electricity network. The pilot uses Ohme’s smart charging technology to help choose suitable charging times, taking account of network needs and each participant’s preferences. 

 

The pilot will help ESB Networks better understand how smart EV charging can support a more flexible, efficient and sustainable electricity network as more customers make the move to electric vehicles. 

 

By working with participating EV drivers, EV Flex will gather practical insights into how smart charging can support customers and help manage demand on the network. 

 

A home Ohme EV charger

Why does it matter?

As more people adopt low-carbon technologies such as EVs, electricity demand will rise, creating both challenges and opportunities for the electricity network. The EV Flex pilot is exploring how this growing demand can be managed more efficiently by: 

 

  • Encouraging EV owners to adopt flexibility friendly behaviours i.e. plugging their EV in more often.  

  • Reducing demand on the electricity network during peak times.  

  • Making better use of renewable energy when it is available.  

  • Supporting a more reliable and resilient electricity network.   

 

EV Flex will also explore how smart charging might support local areas of the electricity network where demand is high, or where clusters of EVs could create additional pressure. The insights gained through this pilot will help ESB Networks better understand the potential role of EVs as a flexible resource within the Republic of Ireland.

 

How does it work?

Participation in the pilot is open to current Ohme customers on an invite basis. Customers who opt to participate in the trail will use their Ohme smart charger, which can:  

  • Automatically schedule charging at optimal times.  
  • Take into account customer preferences, such as when the car needs to be ready and the desired charge levels.  
  • Respond to signals from ESB Networks to adjust charging in line with network conditions. 

Participants are encouraged to plug in their EV more frequently and may be eligible for rewards based on their level of engagement with the pilot. Participants will also receive regular engagement communications and insights related to the pilot. 

Interested in learning more? 

Explore the full details on eligibility, participation requirements and rewards on the Ohme EV Flex webpage 

If you have any queries, please email flexibilityengagement@esbnetworks.ie