V2G update: Nissan approves bi-directional charger for LEAF
Nissan has approved the first bi-directional charger for use with the Nissan LEAF in the United States, working with vehicle-to-grid services provider Fermata Energy. Bi-directional charging technology means not only charging the Nissan LEAF, but also sending energy stored in the vehicle battery back to the building or the grid.
The Fermata Energy FE-15 charger has passed key requirements from Nissan, is verified to be compatible with the Nissan LEAF and achieved UL 9741 certification for bi-directional charging systems. Usage of the approved charger will also not impact the LEAF’s battery warranty.
The Nissan LEAF is currently the only fully electric passenger vehicle in the U.S. market able to supply energy to the grid, allowing LEAF owners with the Fermata Energy FE-15 bi-directional charger to park their vehicle, plug it in, and save money with their local electric utility as well as reduce the total cost of ownership of the vehicle.
Ideal for companies with fleet vehicles, the Fermata Energy Demand Charge Management application, along with the FE-15 charger, continuously monitors a building’s electrical loads, and may draw on the Nissan LEAF’s energy to provide power to the building during more expensive high-demand periods.
In states with utility demand response programs, bi-directional-enabled Nissan LEAF vehicles (MY2013 and later) are able to safely send energy stored in the battery to the grid during peak energy demand times, such as in summer months.
To support its long-term vision, Ambition 2030, Nissan continues to explore additional opportunities in the Vehicle-To-Everything (V2X) market, including residential applications, working with leading third-party companies in the space such as dcbel.
Over the past few years, Fermata Energy has installed its bidirectional charging units and technology at commercial, utility, and fleet companies across the U.S., which has resulted in revenue generated for the EV owner or utility. For example:
- Fermata Energy lowered the electric bills by discharging critical loads directly back to the Boulder North Recreation Center, saving the city $270 a month, or what it costs to lease a Nissan LEAF.
- In Denver, Fermata Energy is saving The Alliance Center over $300 a month.
- In Rhode Island, Fermata Energy participated in a utility demand response (UDR) program. It earned $4,300 over a ten-week demand response program for discharging energy into the Burrillville Wastewater Treatment Facility during peak times.
- Last month, Fermata Energy announced a new partnership with Revel, a ride-share company in New York, where the company is already saving money for New Labs in Brooklyn.
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