Regional Emissions Variability for PHEVs and HEVs
PHEVs:
- Source Variability: The CO2 emissions from PHEVs largely depend on the power grid’s energy mix. Regions with a higher proportion of renewable energy sources like hydroelectric or solar power tend to have lower emissions, while those reliant on fossil fuels (e.g., coal) have higher emissions.
- Charging Times Impact: Battery charging during peak hours (usually daytime) can have higher emissions and cost impacts compared to nighttime charging, which often utilizes baseload power plants that might be cleaner in some regions.
HEVs:
- Engine and Electric Components: While HEVs do not use grid electricity for charging, their emissions are influenced by how efficiently they use gasoline and the electric motor to assist the engine. However, they do not contribute to grid emissions directly.
- Fuel Efficiency: HEVs have better fuel efficiency compared to conventional vehicles, which reduces their tailpipe emissions but doesn’t influence grid emissions directly.
Key Points:
- Regional Differences: The impact of PHEVs on emissions varies significantly by region, with cleaner grids leading to lower overall emissions.
- Charging Behavior: Charging times and grid composition at those times influence emissions and costs.
- HEV vs. PHEV: HEVs do not directly affect grid emissions but contribute to overall emissions reductions through improved fuel efficiency.
Impact on CO2 Emissions:
- Grid Intensity: Areas with high renewable energy production have lower CO2 emission factors, making PHEVs more environmentally friendly there.
- Population Exposure: While PHEVs shift emissions from vehicle tailpipes to power plants, overall exposure to pollutants decreases due to their location outside populated areas.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-grid-emissions-vary-by-region-for-phevs-and-hevs/
