Progress Energy, Duke Energy are testing 12 plug-in Toyota Priuses
Published: Fri, Oct. 31, 2008 12:30AM
Modified Fri, Oct. 31, 2008 02:21AM
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closeRALEIGH -- Progress Energy and Duke Energy are testing technology that would promote plug-in electric cars in a way that won't overload the electricity grid and require new power plants.
The utilities have started testing a dozen Toyota Prius plug-in electric cars in a two-year trial using equipment that allows the autos to communicate with the power grid.
When the car is plugged in to recharge, an on-board sensor will collect data on real-time power demand and generation costs. During peak demand times, the sensor will instruct the recharger not to draw electricity until demand and costs subside. Additionally, the sensor will be able to tell whether the Prius is recharging in a service area belonging to Duke or Progress.
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The 12 Priuses belonging to Duke, Progress and University of Florida will be tested in North Carolina and Florida using a Connectivity Module designed by V2Green, a Seattle technology company. The testing is being overseen by Raleigh nonprofit Advanced Energy.
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Staff writer John Murawski; Staff writer Jack Hagel
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