Solar Moves: Part 1, Modelling the impact of VIPV

In the Solar Moves project, the impact of vehicle integrated photovoltaics (VIPV) in reducing the stress on the electricity grid is studied. By determining typical driving profiles for a variety of vehicle types, looking at the impact of VIPV at vehicle and fleet level, and finally determining the energy demand on the grid compared to Electric Vehicles (EV's) without VIPV. Here, we focus on the impact of VIPV at vehicle level. Efficiency improvements in the vehicles and PV for future scenarios are calculated. Key findings show that in Southern Europe, VIPV could contribute up to 50 % of the energy requirement for common passenger vehicles. For Central Europe this would be 35 %. Finally the effect VIPV and other efficiency improvements in electric vehicles could have on the European Fleet shows that a reduction in grid electricity demand of 27 TWh in the EU could be possible in 2030. •Results show that the VIPV could contribute up to 80 % of the required energy for passenger cars with low mileage in Madrid.•Results also show VIPV could produce between 15 and 30 % of the energy required for vans.•Up to 27 TWh can be saved by combining VIPV and vehicle efficiency measure by 2030 in the EU EV fleet.