Did you know that electric vehicles can be used as a residential energy source? Find out how it works and what precautions should be taken

Using an electric vehicle as a 'mini home power plant' requires correct installation of a bidirectional vehicle charger. ABNT NBR 17019:2022 standard is essential.

The application of electric vehicle as an alternative power source for homes or a mini power plant, requires proper installation of bidirectional chargers. The ABNT NBR 17019:2022 standard is essential to guarantee the safety and good functioning of this connection type.

According to a report published by the IEA (International Energy Agency), the forecast is that more than 1 in every 5 vehicles sold in 2024 will be eletric cars. Essential care includes choosing the correct charger and accurately installing the equipment by qualified technicians or specialized companies. Furthermore, it is crucial to follow all current regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and efficiency in the use of electric transport.

See in practice how an electric vehicle works as a residential energy source

Introduction to the Growth of Electric Vehicles in Brazil

When observing the surroundings, it is clear that electric cars are gaining more and more space on Brazilian streets. According to the Brazilian Electric Vehicle Association (ABVE), sales of light electric vehicles in Brazil reached a record of almost 94 thousand units in 2023, demonstrating impressive growth in the market.

In the month of December of the previous year, the increase in sales of these automobiles was 191% compared to the same period in 2022. And this trend of expansion of electric vehicles is expected to continue worldwide this year. A report by the IEA (International Energy Agency) predicts that more than 1 in every 5 cars sold in 2024 will be an electric car, further consolidating the presence of this means of transport in society.

The Importance of Safety in the Use of Electric Vehicle Batteries

With the growing popularity of electric cars, it is essential to pay extra attention to safety guidelines regarding the correct use of this vehicle's central component: the battery. Gilberto Camargos, executive director of SolaX Power, highlights the importance of correctly using electric vehicles as backup energy sources for homes, warning about the risks of inappropriate practices.

It is feasible to use electric vehicles as power sources in emergency situations, but this requires the use of vehicle chargers with bidirectional capabilities. This type of charger allows you to both charge the electric vehicle's battery and extract energy from it and return it to the home's electrical grid, especially in cases of power outages.

Advantages and Cautions when Using Bidirectional Chargers

The possibility of using a bidirectional electric car charger offers several advantages. However, security must always be prioritized. It is not recommended to make adjustments or connections that do not follow the instructions of the electric vehicle and charger manufacturers. Improper practice can cause accidents or significantly damage the vehicle.

Another fundamental point is the correct installation of chargers vehicles. In this sense, the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) published the ABNT NBR 17019:2022 standard, which specifies the requirements for fixed electrical installations intended to supply energy to electric vehicles. According to Eduardo Nicol, director of operations at Renew Energia, safety in all procedures is crucial to protect both property and life.

Correct Installation and Adequate Protection for Electrical Chargers

The installation of vehicle chargers needs to be carried out by trained professionals, according to Eduardo Nicol. Many people underestimate the complexity of this process, believing that all they need to do is plug the charger into the socket. However, electric vehicles are charged under different weather conditions, from rain to intense sun, and it is necessary to ensure the protection of the vehicle and home against possible accidents, such as fires.

The location of the charger is also crucial. The current standard determines that the distance between the vehicle and the charger must be at least five meters. It is vital that the qualified technician includes a structure that prevents animals or children from coming into contact with the cables and installs a protective box for the equipment.

Technical Specifications and Safety Requirements for Chargers

Additionally, electric vehicle chargers must be designed to resist water and have adequate insulation, as well as protection devices against electric shock. This way, safety in all uses will be guaranteed. The importance of safety cannot be underestimated, especially with the growing number of electric cars in use.

SolaX Power is a multinational founded in 2012, with headquarters in Hangzhou, China, and branches in several countries. With more than 2 thousand employees globally, the company is recognized for its strong performance in research and development, accumulating more than 100 international patents and more than 500 market certifications.

Source: © Solarx Power