EVs and the Electric Grid
Can the Electric Grid Handle EVs?
Our grid today is robust and is prepared to facilitate the current pace of EV adoption. We continue to modernize the electric grid with smart technologies and replace aging infrastructure to manage increased demand and integrate renewable energy sources. These strategies ensure the grid remains reliable, affordable, sustainable, and efficient as EV adoption increases.
Additionally, EV charging at home during off-peak hours is a smart way to shift your energy load to a time when less energy is pulled from the grid. Check out our EV Charging options and compare to find the best fit for you.
How EVs Reduce Carbon Impact
EVs have zero tailpipe emissions, supporting the reduction of greenhouse gases in communities. Driving an EV is becoming more environmentally friendly as Ameren’s energy generation mix incorporates increasing amounts of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which help reduce the impact of carbon emissions.
- EVs have no tailpipe emissions
- EVs typically have a smaller carbon footprint than gasoline cars
- Even when accounting for the electricity used for charging, EVs are usually responsible for lower levels of greenhouse gases than an average new gasoline car, regardless of the energy source used to charge
- With Ameren's target of net-zero carbon by 2045, greenhouse gasses associated with EVs will continue to be even lower over time
EV Efficiency Vs. Fuel-Burning Cars
A battery electric vehicle:
- Has 20 moving parts
- Only incurs about 11% energy loss meaning that most of the energy that goes into the car ends up turning the wheels.
- Can recapture energy during braking, boosting overall efficiency
Comparatively, an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle:
- Has over 2,000 moving parts
- Suffers about 80% energy loss from fuel burning
- Burns energy through combustion that moves pistons, drives the wheels and supports ancillary systems
- Uses energy from fuel that cannot be recovered
Investing In Reliability and Resiliency
Ameren is working hard to provide more reliable energy, reduce outages and restore power faster than ever before. We’re continually investing in ways that will give customers safe, reliable and renewable energy for the long term.
Learn MoreClean Energy and Reliability in Illinois
Ameren Illinois is invested in a clean, reliable energy future. Under our Ameren Grid Plan, we're committed to:
- Advancing the grid to support the clean energy transition and Illinois' net-zero carbon target by 2050
- Enabling increased customer generation
- Streamlining renewable interconnections
- Expanding customer options for energy service
- Supporting the overall electrification of the downstate Illinois economy
