Power pioneers Orkney launches innovative ReFLEX project including electric vehicle leasing
ORKNEY is set to become a leading centre for electric vehicle use with an innovative new project called ReFLEX.
It aims to make the best use of the island’s renewable energy to power low carbon transport.
The island already produces more than 100 per cent of its electricity from renewable energy. ReFLEX is a local project and aims to harness the excess to for technologies such as electric vehicles (EV), batteries, smart chargers and smart meters.
As part of the project, ReFLEX has introduced an EV leasing scheme that allows residents to choose an electric car or van without a large upfront cost.
There are a variety of makes and models on offer, such as the Renault ZOE and Teslas, and they are supplied by DriveElectric.
The £28.5million ReFLEX project is part-funded by UK Research and Innovation through the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, with other money from private investment.
Orkney was chosen as the ideal place for this ground-breaking approach because of its renewable energy supply and the willingness of residents to get involved. Gareth Davies, managing Ddirector of ReFLEX Orkney Ltd, said: “We are pleased to be working with DriveElectric to encourage early adoption of low carbon technologies including electric vehicles.
“This is very timely, with the UK Government recently announcing an end of the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 as part of an ambitious plan for a green industrial revolution.
“Yet again, Orkney is ahead of the curve, ready to demonstrate to the nation how it can be done.”
Mike Potter, managing director of DriveElectric, added: “Working with ReFLEX Orkney to supply electric cars for the island is an honour.
“DriveElectric isn’t just a vehicle leasing company, we also have extensive experience in the areas of charging and renewable energy.
“This project is another example of our unique expertise in bringing together vehicles and energy to reduce emissions and create more sustainable communities.”
The ReFLEX Orkney scheme is free to join for residents. It has also introduced100 per cent renewable electricity tariffs for Orkney residents, which will help link energy technologies with ReFLEX’s integrated energy system called FlexiGrid. This system aims to help Orkney decarbonise its electricity supply by making the most of its renewable energy resources.
As well as providing EV charging points, it will also offer better storage, with batteries for excess electricity production to be used when renewable sources are not creating as much energy as the area needs.
There are plans for ReFLEX Orkney to provide electric buses and an EV car sharing club. It is also hoped the scheme will inspire other areas to adopt the same approach.
Rob Saunders, challenge director, Prospering from the Energy Revolution, UK Research and Innovation, said: “The approach the ReFLEX team is taking combines abundant renewable energy resources with thorough engagement with the community and organisations alongside the development of a joined-up, affordable, low carbon energy system in Orkney. We can all learn from this.”