Charging of electric vehicles and potential for end user flexibility: Case study from Norway

Background Norway is currently in the process of replacing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles with electric vehicles (EV). The steadily increasing number of EVs being charged in the mornings and evenings in Norway has added strain to local electricity grids. This article presents findings from a qualitative study of participants in one Norwegian demonstration project on smart EV charging, which intends to make charging more flexible. In order to establish a systematic overview of the relationship between everyday complexities and EV charging end user flexibility, we employ a domestication theory approach and analyze how different charging practices becomes a part of everyday life. Result In this paper we argue that the domestication theory approach, with its focus on symbolic, practical, and cognitive aspects of technology use and appropriation, highlights how EV uptake and ancillary technologies is modulated by a wide array of factors. Our findings present four different motivations behind our respondents’ choice to participate in a smart charging pilot. The first one is the fire safe charging device. Second is motivated by the pure joy of smart home technology, third is the practical- economical motivation, and the fourth is flexibility as comfort. Conclusions In the green transition whit new renewables and the electrification of transport system the EV charges are a hot spot. By analyzing how different EV owner’s domestication their EV charging we can understand how flexibility from the end-user are individual practice that is connected to the everyday life routine and interest. EV owners do not have one profile but are driven by different kind of motivation. This micro perspective of understanding the flexibility is crucial when the individuals EV charging practice is both a part of the challenges and the solution in the energy transition where the electric grid need to be stabilized.