Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits compared to internal combustion cars. However, the carbon footprint of EVs can vary depending on when they are charged. A recent blog post from Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) highlighted the importance of a grid that relies on renewable energy to reduce emissions associated with charging EVs. Factors such as the time of day can significantly impact the amount of CO2 generated during charging. For example, an EV driver in California charging during daytime hours produces half as many grams of CO2 per kWh compared to nighttime charging.
### Daytime Charging vs. Nighttime Charging
BNEF’s analysis suggests that the gap between daytime and nighttime charging emissions is expected to widen by the end of the decade. While utilities currently incentivize nighttime charging to avoid peak demand hours, BNEF proposes shifting towards incentivizing daytime charging during peak renewable energy hours. This shift could further reduce the carbon footprint of EVs and contribute to a cleaner grid.
### Manufacturing Carbon Footprint and Breakeven Point
BNEF also highlighted that most of the carbon footprint of an EV comes from manufacturing. However, the breakeven point, where emissions from manufacturing are offset by avoiding “tailpipe” emissions, is getting shorter. BNEF estimates the breakeven point to be around 25,000 miles or approximately two years of driving. This threshold is influenced by the power generation mix of the grid an EV is connected to, but the overall environmental benefits of EVs are undeniable.
### Environmental Impact of EVs in the U.S.
According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, the majority of the U.S. sees EVs emitting fewer emissions than driving a 50-mpg gasoline vehicle. Even electric pickups emit less CO2 than the average gas truck nationwide. Despite efforts to potentially increase carbon emissions, the grid is expected to continue getting cleaner. The Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling on infrastructure spending may impact the generation mix of some utilities, but the EPA still has the authority to regulate pollutants that could discourage the use of coal.
As the demand for EVs grows and renewable energy sources become more prevalent, the environmental benefits of electric vehicles are expected to increase. Charging EVs during peak renewable energy hours and reducing emissions during manufacturing are crucial steps in achieving a cleaner transportation system. With advancements in technology and a shift towards sustainable practices, EVs are poised to play a significant role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.