An important reason for the development of this project is the large traffic jams and parking problems that various companies in the Eindhoven region face (High Tech Campus, ASML / MMC campus, Eindhoven Airport, Health Valley Best, TU/e etc.). By substantial use of various Mobility Centres, this problem can be tackled. In addition, the health of the participants can be improved and there will be a significant positive impact on the environment because of the savings on car mileage.
The goal of this project is the research and development of a Mobility Centre that obtains energy through a roof with integrated solar panels. By utilizing smart regulations and its own energy storage system, the Mobility Centre is nearly operational autonomous. Additionally, the consortium provides knowledge on social aspects in the context of a new business model, organizational structure, usage patterns and acceptance of this innovation.
Future users of the Mobility Centre will be able to reserve an electric bike / scooter via a website or an app. Then the user can pick up his preferred means of transportation from inside the sealed and ‘vandalism-proof’ Mobility Centre. After use, the user places the electric means of transport back and connects it in order to be recharged. The energy management system makes sure that the right bike is loaded and the sun is left to do the rest. No sunlight? Then there are fully-charged batteries fixed to take over the load. No bike? Then, with the help of the sun, the system recharges the batteries of the parking facility.
It all sounds very simple, but still the necessary technological and socio-cultural barriers have to be overcome before the consortium can proceed to the marketing phase. These challenges lie in the area of in-roof solar PV, batteries, energy management systems, e-vehicles charging, smart micro-grid and optimal coupling with the grid. Even socially, there are also all sorts of challenges regarding the acceptance, revenue models and cooperative organization to be settled.
The desired result is a comprehensive answer to the following question: “What are the -scientifically validated- non-technological and technological design specifications needed for the realization of a nearly autonomous Solar Mobility Centre consisting of an in-roof solar PV and an integrated control & energy storage system in regards to the specific needs of e-transport?”.