Electric Vehicles and Heat Pumps Could Eliminate 110 Hours of Negative Electricity Prices Annually

Consulting firm Enervis, commissioned by green energy cooperative Green Planet Energy, has released a landmark study exploring how heat pumps and electric vehicles (EVs) can influence electricity prices, CO₂ emissions, and renewable energy integration. Titled "Flexible Use of Heat Pumps and Electric Vehicles – Analysis of Energy Economic Benefits," the research highlights that strategic operational controls—particularly those aligned with dynamic electricity tariffs—can "streamline the energy transition and make electricity more affordable for all," according to Carolin Dähling, Head of Policy and Communications at Green Planet Energy.

The study quantifies the grid-stabilizing effects of shifting energy demand from traditional morning and evening peaks to midday through smart use of EVs and heat pumps. Crucially, Green Planet Energy emphasizes no compromise for households: "Intelligent systems, such as buffer storage, preheat heat pumps efficiently," while EV owners can set precise charging deadlines to avoid peak periods.

Key findings include:

Reduced Negative Pricing Events: Between 2025 and 2035, the annual number of hours with negative electricity prices could drop by 110 hours on average, boosting the economic viability of wind and solar farms.

Energy Waste Mitigation: Shutdown-related energy losses could decrease by 6 terawatt-hours annually, while reliance on costly, carbon-intensive natural gas power plants would decline.

Price Stabilization: Demand flexibility could lower base load electricity prices by €3.60/MWh and peak prices by €6.20/MWh (0.36 and 0.62 cents per kWh, respectively). The average day-ahead price spread would narrow by approximately €20/MWh.

Carbon Reductions: Reduced gas plant usage could deliver 0.7 million tons of annual CO₂ savings.

By optimizing demand through technology and tariff incentives, the study posits that EVs and heat pumps act as dual catalysts for a cheaper, cleaner, and more resilient energy system—proving that flexibility is key to unlocking the full potential of the green transition.