DOE study shows grid can handle plug-in hybrid vehicles

A new study by the Department of Energy demonstrates that America's power grid could accommodate converting 84% of all vehicles into plug-in hybrids. Since plug-in hybrids could handle the average daily commute of most Americans, the study assumed owners would primarily fill up during non-peak hours - such as after 5.

"The estimates didn't include hydro, renewables or nuclear plants. It also didn't include plants designed to meet peak demand because they don't operate continuously. We still found that across the country 84 percent of the additional electricity demand created by PHEVs could be met by idle generation capacity," stated PNNL energy researcher Rob Pratt.

But the good news doesn't end there. The study also concluded that converting to electricity would also be much better for the environment, reducing global warming emissions and other forms of pollution.

On the downside, it could take from 5 - 8 years for plug-in hybrids to pay for themselves for consumers. Of course, since we'd end foreign oil dependency, why not offer some nice tax credits to consumers and subsidies to automakers? Then it's a win-win for everyone.

On a sidenote, Straightline from Edmunds.com also referenced the article and stated, "One thing no one has addressed however is: What happens when there is a regional power outage? If a hurricane or ice storm knocks out all the power in your area, how are you going to recharge your vehicle? If most people convert to this method, it could be a real problem."

What do you do? You fill it up with fuel, buddy. It's a plug-in hybrid, not an electric vehicle. It can use both fuel and electricity.

(Source: The AutoChannel)