Green charging: ways to contribute to the energy transition
The transition to green energy is taking center stage in the quest for climate neutrality. To enable this transition, it's clear that governments, businesses, and academic institutions have the lion's share of the responsibility. But not all. By taking measures on an individual level, each and every one of us can bring about a paradigm shift.
Change your electric rate plan
This is probably the easiest and quickest way to get involved in the green transition. Contact your electricity provider and see if they offer electric rate plans that are powered by renewables, or green power plans. Most often, these programs require you to pay a marginally higher amount for your electricity each month. But through this fee, you're also directly encouraging your provider to continue investing in green energy.
Demand increased transparency from your charging provider
There is a lack of data concerning the proportion of green energy in the global charging network. Request that your local charging station operators supply the information needed for you to make informed choices when it comes to how you power your EV.
Sign petitions
There is an abundance of initiatives demanding that governments stop investing in fossil fuels and commit to 100% renewable energy. Add your voice to the growing chorus calling for a cleaner future.
Make sure your workplace is going green
If your workplace hasn't already invested in charging points, find out why. And if it already has adapted to the EV revolution, great! But just to ensure your car fleet is using its full potential, confirm with your manager/HR specialist/etc. that the charging points are run on green energy.
Charge your EV when the grid is greenest
Unless converted, electricity can't be stored but needs to be used immediately when it is produced. With less energy coming from fossil fuels, and more from sources that depend on the weather (like wind and solar), the carbon intensity of the grid goes up and down throughout the day. Depending on where you live, there are companies, academic institutions and NGOs that gather data to tell you when's the best time to charge. In the UK, for instance, WWF, National Grid and Environmental Defense Fund Europe, have developed a carbon intensity forecast with a regional breakdown.
Write to your elected officials and ask them to support green energy policies
Your voice matters to your representatives, so don't underestimate your ability to enable change! Green energy shouldn't only be powering cars, but also elected officials. After all, they won't have power if they don't support green energy.
Invest in solar panels
Finally, a well-known way to get involved in the green transition is to install solar panels on your rooftop. Clearly, this is not an option for everyone and given there's quite a lot of misinformation circulating, some research is encouraged before making any investments. Nevertheless, the environmental (and financial) benefits can be considerable.
In the great energy transition, everyone and anyone can be part of the solution. We shouldn't wait for institutions and government bodies to act. (Green) power is in the hands of the people.