“We'd rather have a clean planet than anything else”: Household values and automated future electric vehicle charging

The increasing uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) presents both opportunities and challenges for the future electricity grid. Managing the uncertainties associated with EV uptake, charging routines, and household energy consumption patterns is crucial for grid operators to ensure stability and efficiency. This study responds to the prevalent belief within the energy industry that in lieu of effective time-of-use (TOU) tariffs and price-based incentives, smart appliances (dishwashers, EV chargers, water heaters, pool pumps) should be automated to manage home-based EV charging and balance demand during peak periods. However, this strategy overlooks the complexities of household energy routines and the reluctance of households to automate smart appliances. Drawing on a mixed-methods research project with households in Australia, including ethnographic insights and survey data, this study explores EV charging practices within broader household energy contexts. The findings challenge the assumption that correct price incentives or orchestrated charging are the most effective solutions for managing future EV charging. Specifically, we illustrate opportunities for demand management strategies to target household values such as environmentalism and sustainability. Further, we suggest leveraging current practices among EV households such as their preference for solar self-consumption and time spent working from home. We conclude by emphasising the need for policies aimed at apartment dwellers and renters that tackle inequalities in access to solar and home-based EV charging to allow broader participation in the energy transition to decarbonised and decentralised grid.